Most inside-the-Loop homes are on city water. Plenty of Harris County and edge lots are on wells or small private systems. If the wellhead went under, the water is a suspect.
Boil-water notices from the city do not automatically cover a private well. They also do not clear one.
Do not ‘run it until it looks clear.’ Looks are not a lab.
Do this now
- Switch to bottled water for drink, brush, and wound care if the well or pressure tank area flooded.
- Stay off the electrical side of the pump if the pit or shed was underwater. Call a well pro or electrician.
- Find your county or state well-disinfection guidance and follow it after the water recedes.
- Do not reconnect and drink until you have a test or an official all-clear for that well.
City tap vs your well
City of Houston Public Works will post boil-water notices for municipal systems. Check that page if you are on city tap.
If you are on a MUD or a private well, you need that entity’s notice or your own test. ReadyHarris and the county may link guidance during a big event, but your well is still your well.
Ice, gasoline jugs, and the coffee pot all count as drinking water. Do not play cute.
After the water drops
A flooded well usually needs disinfection and a bacterial test. That is a well contractor or a health department path, not a YouTube dare with random bleach volumes you guessed.
If the septic also went under, you have two systems in trouble. Stop the laundry marathon.
Photograph the wellhead high-water mark. That picture matters if you file with FEMA or an insurer later.
Verify live. Status changes hourly. Boil-water notices and well-clearance status change. Confirm municipal notices with City Public Works or your MUD, and do not drink a flooded private well until it is disinfected and tested.
Do this next
- Floodwater categories: clean, gray, and black water
- Sewage backup in the house: immediate steps
- Water cleanup hub
More in Mold, sewage & health right after.