Septic Systems contractors cost and hiring guide

Project guide

Hiring septic systems contractors

Septic contractors install and replace the tank, distribution box and drain field that treat wastewater on properties without sewer. Nothing goes in the ground until a soil evaluation or percolation test has been done and the county or state health department has approved a system design; the installer builds to that design and the inspector looks at the open trenches before they are covered. Conventional gravel-and-pipe drain fields are the least expensive where soil drains well, but heavy clay, high water tables and small lots push jobs toward chambers, sand mounds, drip dispersal or an aerobic treatment unit, each with a different price and maintenance schedule. Most states license septic installers separately from general contractors, and many require a pumping and inspection record at property sale.

GradeLine lists 5,540 septic systems contractors.Compare their work and equipment, then confirm availability and service area before requesting a quote.

Listed businesses are based in Chisago City, White Island Shores, Dubuque, Cedar Springs, Johnson, Dearborn, though most crews travel well beyond their home city.

What septic systems work costs

A conventional gravity system on well-draining soil typically runs $5,000 to $12,000 installed. Chamber and pressure-dosed systems land in the $8,000 to $18,000 range, and mound or aerobic treatment systems commonly cost $15,000 to $35,000 because of the extra fill, pumps and electrical work. The soil evaluation and design usually add $500 to $2,000 up front.

Ranges are national and approximate; regional labor rates, material prices and site conditions move them in both directions.