Our Story
A family-run specialist drilling contractor. Built on military precision, shaped by experience across three continents.
Who We Are
Specialist Drilling Contractors Based in Manchester
The Drill Sergeant is a family-run specialist drilling contractor carrying out ground source heat pump borehole installations, water well drilling, and ground investigation for residential, commercial, and agricultural clients across the UK.
The name is not a gimmick. Our drilling expertise was first developed serving as a Royal Engineer in the British Army, working in some of the most demanding environments imaginable: mountain terrain in Asia and the iron-rich landscapes of the Pilbara region in Western Australia. The standards of precision, reliability, and professionalism that come from that background are the same standards we apply on every project today.
We work with heat pump installers, groundworks contractors, and private clients who want a straightforward, dependable drilling contractor. Our approach is the same regardless of project size: understand the requirements properly upfront, give honest advice, and carry out the work to a professional standard.
Experience
Proven Across Ground Conditions and Project Types
From Asia and the Australian outback to domestic and commercial projects across the UK.
Our UK projects range from domestic installations to large commercial schemes
Where It Started
Our drilling expertise was built in the British Army as a Royal Engineer, working across some of the world’s most challenging environments: mountain terrain in Asia and the harsh, mineral-rich landscapes of the Pilbara region in Western Australia.
That kind of experience teaches you to read ground conditions, adapt to the unexpected, and get the job done regardless of what the site throws at you.
UK Projects
From domestic GSHP installations to large commercial district heating schemes, we have worked across a wide range of UK site types and ground conditions. Our most recent large-scale project involved a 28-loop array drilled to 181 metres for Cala Homes in Falkirk, coordinated across a live residential development.
Trade and Private Clients
We are equally comfortable operating as a subcontractor within a larger installation programme and dealing directly with private clients. We understand the coordination and documentation requirements that come with both, and we communicate clearly throughout.
Standards and Accreditations
All work is carried out in line with the relevant industry standards. Our qualifications cover drilling operations, workplace health and safety, and site supervision.
RAMS and method statements are provided as standard for all projects. Trade clients and main contractors can request these at any stage.
Qualifications
Memberships
Location and Coverage
Based in Manchester. Working UK-Wide.
Most of our work is across the North West, though we take on projects further afield, including recent commercial work in Scotland.
If you want to know whether we cover your area, just ask.
Manchester
Cheshire
Yorkshire
Scotland
Wales
UK Wide
Talk to Us About Your Project
Specialist drilling for renewable heating, water supply, and ground investigation. Working with installers, contractors, and private clients across the UK.
