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- If you have a septic system on your property, you may be wondering if it affects the resale value of your home. The research shows that having a septic system as opposed to a standard sewage system does not increase or decrease the value of your home, although there are some things about that septic system that can affect resale.
Do septic tanks lower property value?
The research shows that having a septic system as opposed to a standard sewage system does not increase or decrease the value of your home, although there are some things about that septic system that can affect resale.
How far from a property should a septic tank be?
Most importantly, a septic tank must be at least seven metres from a house, defined as a ‘habitable property’. Septic tanks are built underground and release wastewater slowly into the surrounding environment. For this reason, they must be a set distance away from a home.
Is it worth having a septic tank?
A septic tank can help you save money on several fronts, from the installation all the way through to the day when you sell your property. Costs less to install. A new septic system will often cost significantly less than the installation of sewage pipes on a residential property.
What does a septic tank riser do?
A septic tank riser is a pipe made of either plastic, fiberglass, or concrete. It creates a vertical portal at the ground surface for easy access to the septic tank for inspection and pumping out. The lid is then either left exposed or with a very thin layer of soil and grass over it.
What are the disadvantages of a septic tank?
Cons
- Maintenance costs $300-$600 every few years (which can still be cheaper than municipal sewer).
- It can cause groundwater contamination if the system leaks.
- If not maintained, you can have a costly mess on your hands.
- Septic tanks will eventually need to be replaced.
Is septic tank better than sewer?
Although septic systems require a bit more maintenance and attention, they have a number of advantages over sewer lines. Since they don’t pump wastewater long distances to be processed at a water treatment facility, they use less energy overall and have a smaller environmental impact.
Do I have to replace my septic tank by 2020?
Under the new rules, if you have a specific septic tank that discharges to surface water (river, stream, ditch, etc.) you are required to upgrade or replace your septic tank treatment system to a full sewage treatment plant by 2020, or when you sell a property, if it’s prior to this date.
Can you build next to septic tank?
It is never recommended to build a structure over any portion of your septic system. The most common problem we see is when someone wants to pump out their septic tank but doesn’t know where their tank is located.
Do you need planning permission for a septic tank?
The short answer is yes. You will need planning permission from a local authority in order to have a septic tank installed, no matter if it’s at your own home or on a business site.
How long do septic tanks last?
A septic system’s lifespan should be anywhere from 15 to 40 years. How long the system lasts depends on a number of factors, including construction material, soil acidity, water table, maintenance practices, and several others.
Do septic tanks smell?
A properly-maintained septic tank should be odor-free, so if you notice a bad smell inside your home or outside near the leach field, it’s a sign that there’s a problem. Septic odors are caused by gases in the system, including carbon dioxide, hydrogen sulfide, and methane.
Can you sell a house with a septic tank?
If you currently have a septic tank that discharges to surface water then the sale will trigger the requirement to replace or upgrade the system. Buyers should satisfy themselves that any system is in good working order and does not cause pollution.
Are septic tank risers safe?
Fortunately, lids and risers in today’s onsite market can help prevent these unfortunate incidents. These innovative products ensure septic tank covers are secure and prohibit unauthorized tank access.
Should septic tank riser be above ground?
Landscaping Around Septic Tank Risers However, septic tank risers should never be buried. Instead, they should be 2 inches above final grade to prevent groundwater from entering the system.
Do they make square risers for septic tanks?
The Polylok square riser adapter ring is designed to connect the Polylok septic tank risers or lids to an existing concrete tank with large square or round openings.
Learn how much it costs to Install a Septic Tank.
Septic tanks range in price from $3,157 to $10,367, or an average of $6,743. Installation of a conventional 1,000-gallon tank for a three-bedroom home might cost anywhere from $2,100 and $5,000. Materials range in price from $600 to $2,500, without labor. A comprehensive septic system, which includes a leach field (also known as a drain field), tank, and plumbing, can cost between $10,000 and $25,000 to install. A leach field installation might cost anywhere from $5,000 to $20,000, depending on the kind.
In the end, the cost of installing a septic tank is determined by the kind of system, the materials used, and the size of the tank.
This course will teach you about the several sorts of settings, such as conventional, drip irrigation, mound irrigation, evapotranspiration, recirculating sand, constructed wetland, and chambered irrigation.
Septic System Cost Estimator
Let’s run some numbers to see what the costs are. What part of the world are you in? What part of the world are you in?
| National Average | $6,743 |
| Typical Range | $3,157 – $10,367 |
| Low End – High End | $450 – $20,000 |
The cost information in this report is based on real project costs provided by 943 HomeAdvisor users.
New Septic System Cost
Most tanks and systems cost between $2,000 and $10,000 to install a new typical anaerobic septic system. Aerobic systems range in price from $8,000 to $20,000. You may even have to pay an additional $10,000 or more for an alternative, specialized drain or leach field, depending on the size of your property, the soil composition, and the depth of your water table.Septic systems are divided into three major components:
- Septic tank: Either anaerobic (requiring no oxygen) or aerobic (requiring oxygen but more complicated but more efficient)
- Water runs to a leach field after it has been cleaned and separated in the septic tank, where it will naturally drain through sand, gravel, and soil in a cleaning process before reaching the water table
- Water table: Plumbing: A drainpipe to the tank, followed by another branching pipe to your field will be required.
Optional components include the following:
- Some types of systems use a dose or pump tank, which pumps wastewater up into mounded or elevated leach fields and recycles the water in some cases. Pump for aeration: If your aquarium is equipped with an aerobic system, you’ll want an aerator to force oxygen into the tank.
Find Local Septic Tank Installers
The installation of a traditional anaerobic system typically costs between $3,000 and $8,000 on average. Anaerobic systems are often less expensive to build than aerobic systems, which are more complicated. However, because they are less effective at cleaning the tank, you will need a bigger leach field to accommodate the increased burden. An anaerobic septic system is a very basic system that consists of a pipe that runs from the home to the tank and a branching pipe that runs from the tank to the drain field, among other components.
Aerobic Septic System Cost
Aerobic systems, which are those that require oxygen to work properly, cost on average between $10,000 and $20,000 per system. If you’re moving from anaerobic to aerobic fermentation, you’ll almost certainly need a second tank, but the conversion will only cost you $5,000 to $10,000. Aerobic systems break down waste more effectively in the tank than anaerobic systems, allowing you to use a smaller drain field in many cases – which is ideal for houses with limited space. An aerobic wastewater system is a wastewater system that depends on aerobic bacteria (bacteria that thrive in the presence of oxygen) to break down trash in the tank.
You’ll need an aerator as well as an electrical circuit that connects to the system to complete the setup. Small, mounded, or speciality fields may necessitate the addition of a dose or pump tank to assist in pushing effluent (sewage or wastewater) upward or out in batches.
Get Quotes From Local Septic Tank Pros
Beyond the tank and leach field, there will be a few more costs to consider when creating your budget for the project. You may already have some of these costs included in your total project pricing, so make sure to get line-item prices on your estimate.
- Excavation costs $1,200–$4,500
- Building permits cost $400–$2,000
- And a perc test costs $700–$1,300. Labor costs range from $1,500 to $4,000
- The cost of septic tank material ranges between $500 and $2,000.
- Plastic and polymer materials cost $500–$2,500
- Concrete costs $700–$2,000
- And fiberglass costs $1,200–$2,000.
- 500: $500–$900
- 750: $700–$1,200
- 1,000: $900–$1,500
- 1,200: $1,200–$1,600
- 1,500: $1,500–$2,500
- 2,000: $3,000–$4,000
- 3,000: $4,500–$6,000
- 5,000+: $7,500–$14,000
- 500: $500–$900
- 1,200: $1,200–$1,
Leach Field Cost
Installing a leach or drain field, which is a component of your septic system, can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $15,000 in total. The cost of a typical drain field ranges from $2,000 to $10,000. The drain field, also known as the leach field, is the component of the septic system that is responsible for returning wastewater to the soil. Most of the time, a flooded area in the yard or a strong stink of sewage on the property is the first symptom of a problem with the drainfield. It is possible that you may require further treatment for blocked or flooded fields, which would increase the cost of the drain field repair from $10,000 to $50,000.
Alternative Septic Systems Cost
It costs anywhere from $3,000 to $15,000 to build a leach or drain field as part of your septic system. It costs between $2,000 and $10,000 to install a typical drainage system. Septic systems include several sections, one of which is the drain or leach field, which sends wastewater back to the ground. Most of the time, a flooded area in the yard or a strong stink of sewage on the property is the first symptom of a problem with the drainage system. It is possible that you may require cleanup for blocked or flooded fields, which would increase the cost of the project by $10,000 to $50,000.
Mound Septic System Cost
Installing a mound septic system can cost between $10,000 and $20,000 dollars. In places with high water tables, thin soil depths, or shallow bedrock, this is the most costly system to build; yet, it is frequently required. In order to create a drain field, it uses a raised mound of sand rather than digging into the soil. Its extra cost is a result of both the additional technology required to pump sewage upward into the mound and the materials and labor required to construct the mound in the first place.
Recirculating Sand Filter Septic System Cost
Sand filter septic systems range in price from $7,500 to $18,500. They can be built above or below ground depending on the situation. In order to disperse the wastewater in the ground, they employ a pump chamber to force the wastewater through a sand filter. The liner of the filter box is normally made of PVC. This is accomplished by pumping the effluent through the sand and returning it to the pump tank, where it is then disseminated throughout the ground.
Drip Septic System Cost
Drip systems range in price from $8,000 to $18,000, depending on the size and complexity. They operate in the same way as previous systems, with the exception that they employ extensive drip tubing and a dosage mechanism. They deliver lower dosages over a shorter period of time, which is particularly effective at shallow soil depths. This method is more expensive than a standard system since it requires a dosage tank, a pump, and electrical power to operate.
Evapotranspiration System
Evapotranspiration systems range in price from $10,000 to $15,000 per system.
In order to allow the liquid to evaporate from the top of an open-air tank, they employ a novel drain field configuration. They’re only usable in dry, arid areas with little rain or snow, thus they’re not recommended.
Built Wetland System
Built-in wetland systems range in price from $8,000 to $15,000, with the cost increasing if an aerobic tank is included. They are designed to simulate the natural cleaning process observed in wetland ecosystems. After traveling through a wetland tank, where it is treated by microorganisms, plants, and bacteria, it is returned to the soil. The waste also has the effect of assisting the growth of wetland plants and the population of microbes.
Chambered System
Installation of chambered systems ranges from $5,000 to $12,000 dollars. They employ plastic perforated chambers surrounding pipes, which are frequently laid in sand, to keep them cool. Gravel is no longer required as a result of this. They are quick and simple to install, but they are more subject to crushing pressures, such as those caused by automobiles.
Septic Tank Replacement Cost
The cost of replacing a septic tank ranges from $3,000 to $10,000. From 30 to 40 years, you may anticipate your system to serve you well. The system may crack or corrode as a result of the failure and the resulting contamination of groundwater with toxic waste is an issue. When this occurs, the well water may get polluted, the yard may become marshy, and the septic system may become inoperable or fail completely. Here’s a breakdown of the various components of a septic tank, along with an estimate of their usual costs: Replacement of a septic tank pump costs between $800 and $1,400.
Replacement of the filter costs between $230 and $280.
Drain Field Replacement Cost: $7,500.
Septic System Maintenance Costs
It is essential that you pump and clean your septic tank at least once a year. In addition, you should get it examined at least once every three years. The proper maintenance of your septic tank will save you money in the long term, and it will also help you avoid potentially hazardous situations. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) suggests the following steps to keep your septic system in good working order:
Inspect and Pump Your Septic Frequently
Typically, the cost of septic tank pumping runs from $300 to $550, or around $0.30 per gallon – most septic tanks have capacities between 600 and 2,000 gallons. Every three to five years, you should have your septic tank inspected and pumped by a professional. If you have a bigger home (with more than three bedrooms) and you tend to use a lot of water, you should try to get it pumped at least once every three years. An checkup of a septic system might cost anything from $100 to $900. Your septic inspector will do a visual inspection of the system.
- Initial inspection costs between $250 and $500
- Annual inspection costs between $100 and $150
- And camera inspection costs between $250 and $900.
Use Household Water Efficiently
A toilet that leaks or runs continuously might waste as much as 200 gallons of water per day, although the average family consumes just 70 gallons of water.
Take, for example, high-efficiency toilets, which consume 1.6 gallons or less of water every flush or less. The use of new, high-efficiency washing machines and showerheads can also help to reduce water waste, which will relieve the load on your septic system.
Properly Dispose of Your Waste
Your septic system is responsible for disposing of everything that goes down your drains and toilets. One easy rule of thumb is to never flush anything down the toilet other than human waste and toilet paper, unless it is absolutely necessary. That implies you should never flush the following items down the toilet or drop them down the sink drain:
- Cooking grease or oil, baby wipes or wet wipes, dental floss, diapers, feminine hygiene products, cigarettes, cat litter, and paper towels are all examples of items that fall into this category.
Maintain Your Drainfield
The drainfield of your septic system is a component of the system that eliminates waste from the septic’s liquid. You should take steps to keep it in good condition, such as:
- Never park or drive your vehicle on your drainfield. Don’t ever put trees near your drainage system. Maintaining a safe distance between your drainfield and roof drains, sump pumps, and other drainage equipment
Get in Touch With Septic Tank Installers Near You
A septic tank or septic pump tank can range in price from $350 to $14,000, depending on the material used and the size of the tank. In most home situations, you won’t have to spend more than $3,000 on the tank’s actual construction. The majority of big, high-priced units are intended for use in apartment buildings or as part of a communal sewage system.
Concrete Septic Tank Cost
Concrete tanks range in price from $700 to $2,000. The total cost of installation ranges from $2,300 to $6,500. They’re one of the most often seen forms of installation. Despite the fact that they are vulnerable to cracking and separation, they are often resilient for several decades. It’s critical to have it carefully inspected on a regular basis for cracks and runoff, among other things. Inspections and frequent cleanings will assist to extend its useful life. Your professional can tell you how frequently you should get it inspected, but it’s normally every one to three years.
Plastic and Poly Septic Tank Prices
Septic tanks made of plastic range in price from $500 to $2,500 on average, not counting installation costs. Plastic is a long-lasting, lightweight, and reasonably priced building material. They do not break as easily as concrete and do not rust. Because of their small weight, plastics are more susceptible to harm during the installation process.
Fiberglass Septic Tank Prices
Fiberglass septic tanks are typically priced between $1,200 and $2,000, not including installation. Fiberglass does not split or rust readily, but it is prone to damage during the installation process, much like plastic. However, because of its lighter weight, it is more prone to structural damage, and the tanks themselves can move in the soil.
Steel
It’s unlikely that you’ll ever see a new steel tank constructed. They will rust or corrode with time, no matter how well-made they are at the time. As a result, they are not permitted by many municipal construction rules, and you will only encounter them in existing installations. Steel is not a long-lasting material in the earth, and it is the least preferred.
Labor Costs to Install a Septic System
The cost of labor accounts for 50 percent to 70 percent of your overall expenses. Labor is typically more expensive than the tank itself in a normal installation, making it the most expensive option. For example, while the size required for a 3 to 4-bedroom home may cost between $600 and $1,100, the labor to install it might cost anywhere between $1,500 and $4,000.
Compare Quotes From Local Pros
Here is a breakdown of how much septic tanks cost in different parts of the country.
Massachusetts:$9,700 California:$4,500 Florida:$5,300 Texas:$8,000 $5,600 in New York City Colorado:$7,800 Idaho:$10,000
DIY vs. Hire a Septic System Pro
The installation of a septic system is a time-consuming operation. An incorrectly fitted unit can result in water contamination, structural damage to the property, and the need for costly repairs. In addition, an unpermitted installation might make it harder to sell and insure a property when it is completed. Make a point of interviewing at least three pros before making a final decision. Contact a septic tank installation in your area now for a free quote on your job.
FAQs
A septic tank has an average lifespan of 20 to 30 years, however it may live anywhere from 14 to 40 years, depending on the following factors:
- What it is made of is a mystery. Concrete tends to require more care, but commercial-grade fiberglass and plastic are known to survive for decades in most environments. It’s amazing how well you’ve kept it up. Every one to three years, have your system inspected and pumped out
- Every three to five years, have it pumped out. It will depend on whether or not it gets vehicle traffic over the leach field. Driving over the leach field compresses it, which increases the likelihood of it failing. The soil’s chemical makeup is important. The length of time it may endure varies depending on the soil type and depth.
What are the signs I need a new septic tank?
There are a few indicators that it is time to replace your septic tank. These are some examples: If you smell sewage, you may have a solid waste problem in your septic tank that has to be dealt with immediately. Standing water: If there is no clear explanation for standing water, such as a significant rainstorm, it is possible that you have an oversaturated drain field, a damaged pipe, or a faulty septic system. A clogged septic tank will cause pipes to drain more slowly than they would otherwise be.
Construction on your home or the addition of more occupants will have an impact on your septic system.
pollution of nearby water: A septic tank leak can result in wastewater contamination, which can deposit nitrate, nitrite, or coliform bacteria in water sources around your property as a result of the leak.
Old age: If your septic system has reached the end of its useful life, it is time to replace it.
Does homeowners insurance cover septic systems?
Many unforeseen and abrupt repairs to septic tanks are covered by homeowners’ insurance policies. They do not, however, often cover harm caused by a failure to perform routine maintenance. Make certain that you are pumping and cleaning it on a yearly basis.
How much do septic system repairs cost?
Repairing a septic system can cost anything from $600 to $3,000. Most tank repairs and replacement parts cost less than $1500 for each type of repair or replacement part mentioned below. Leach fields range in price from $2,000 to $20,000.
- Tank Pumps cost between $800 and $1,500. A septic tank that is placed below the drain field may necessitate the installation of a pump to transport wastewater to the drain field. Pumping costs between $300 and $600 per year. Pumping is required to remove solid waste from even a perfectly functioning system every two or three years, even if it is in good working order. Tank Lids cost between $100 and $300 to purchase and install. If you purchase the lid and attach it yourself, it will cost you between $50 and $150
- Tank Lid Risers range in price from $300 to $1,000. Deeply submerged tanks can have their lids raised to the surface by using these devices.
Still Have Questions About Septic Tanks?
There is some debate over whether or not having a septic system on your property impacts the resale value of your home. If you do, read on. According to the findings of the research, having a septic system as opposed to a regular sewage system has no effect on the value of your property, however there are some aspects of a septic system that can have an impact on resale. Let’s take a deeper look at what’s going on. A Checkup on the Health of Your Septic System You should get your septic system tested by a professional before selling your house if you want to do so in the future.
- However, if your septic tank is in excellent shape and all of the components have been recently rebuilt or repaired, it may be a significant selling factor in your home.
- In general, a septic tank should be pumped out every three to four years, depending on usage.
- This will be seen positively by a prospective buyer because pumping may be expensive, and they may already be feeling overwhelmed by the thought of taking on a system that they are unfamiliar with, as previously said.
- To provide prospective purchasers with piece of mind, ensure that your system meets or exceeds all applicable safety standards and regulations.
- A tank cover that is too loose or ill-fitting is a safety issue, and it is frequently the first item that a home inspector looks for.
Have your system checked by an expert to ensure that it is safe and compliant with current regulations. When it comes time to sell your property, keeping your septic system up to date and properly maintained will help you get a better price. Make a call to Affordable Pumping Services right now.
10 Things to Know Before Buying a House With a Septic Tank
Blake Worthington posted a blog on November 25, 2020. Consider the dread of sprinting around the yard barefoot and discovering all of a sudden that the ground is soft and squishy. You attempt to recall the last time it poured, but you can’t seem to recall anything. I’m sorry, it hasn’t rained for months now. You glance down, despite your better judgment, which just serves to confirm your worst suspicions. Your feet are coated with what you recognize to be the garbage from you and your family.
So, what do you do now?
Will having a shower cause the septic tank to overflow even more?
Let’s have a look and see.
Common Problems With Septic Tanks
Most people are familiar with septic tank difficulties, but drainfield problems are perhaps the most well-known. These are responsible for the terrifying situations that humorous movies frequently extort with great effect. Over-filled or broken septic tanks and lines result in flooded yards, which are a symptom of septic tank problems. Clogs are one of the most prevalent problems. Clogs occur most frequently when anything that shouldn’t be flushed down the toilet is done so. These, on the other hand, are often simple remedies.
Roots from trees and shrubs are another source of septic system problems.
Homeowners should be mindful of the location of their septic system on their property in relation to the trees on their land.
Signs That Indicate a Problem in Your Septic System
Of all the septic tank issues, drainfield issues are the most well-known. It is for this reason why comic movies frequently extract terrifying incidents from their audiences to great effect. Over-filled or broken septic tanks and lines result in flooded yards, which are a symptom of septic tank issues. Bloat is a more frequent problem. Clogs most frequently develop when anything that shouldn’t be flushed down the toilet is. In most cases, though, these are simple remedies. If, on the other hand, your septic tank is clogged, it may be necessary to have it pumped.
Septic tanks and septic tank lines can be damaged or destroyed by tree roots that grow into them over time.
Septic Repairs Costs
If you are considering purchasing a home with a septic tank, you should be aware of the fees that may be associated with the system in the case of a malfunction. It is likely that your cost will be comparable to that of a plumber visit if you have a basic blockage problem. If, on the other hand, anything is broken or has to be fixed or replaced, you will have to give out a bit extra cash. Damage caused by line breakages can be as little as a couple hundred dollars in some cases. To have a drain field problem corrected, on the other hand, you may be looking at anything from $2,000 to $10,000.
Septic systems range in price from $3,000 to $10,000 or more. Consider the following before you get very concerned about the money: what form of septic system insurance may be obtained for your home.
Warranties for Home Septic Systems
Property warranties for septic systems might completely alter your perspective on the prospect of purchasing a home with a septic system. Plans, like other warranties, can have varying levels of coverage. As a result, while contemplating your strategy, be sure you understand what you’re getting yourself into. Understand what you’re covered for and what you aren’t covered for. There’s nothing worse than getting an unpleasant surprise in the mail, except from a yard full of trash, of course. Good septic system warranties might be the difference between an inconvenient problem and a costly headache down the road.
Make an informed decision.
Longevity of Septic Systems
Homeowners may anticipate their septic systems to endure between 25 and 35 years. Maintenance, on the other hand, is critical to the long-term performance of your system. Take better care of it if you want it to last for a longer period of time.
How to Respect Your Septic System for Maximum Performance
Septic systems are more finicky than sewer systems in terms of maintenance. What you flush has a far bigger impact on the operation of the toilet. For example, typical non-flushables that are flushed anyhow might have a significant impact on the performance of your system. All kinds of stuff like feminine products and wet-wipes and paper towels, as well as other things that shouldn’t be flushed, but are, may cause serious problems for your septic system without even batting an eye. Water consumption that exceeds recommended levels might also place unneeded strain on your system.
How Often Do Septic Tanks Need Emptied?
Your septic tank should only need to be emptied once every three to five years, depending on the size of your home and the size of your septic tank. It goes without saying that a married pair can go far longer between septic tank emptyings than a family of five can. When estimating how long you should wait between tank emptyings, be conservative with your calculations. The more sludge that accumulates at the bottom of your septic tank, the less efficient your system will be. Improved maintenance, like with other things in life, leads to better performance in the long run.
Annual Cost of a Septic System vs. a Sewer System
A septic system versus a sewer system might have dramatically different operating and maintenance expenses. Our estimates for the price of constructing a new septic system range from $5,000 to $15,000, which we have previously determined. However, provided that you are not experiencing any problems with your system, there is no additional charge for having it. Having said that, septic tanks must be maintained and emptied on a regular basis. According to your area, the cost of emptying a tank might range between $75 and $300.
According to your city and the location of your home, a sewage hook-up might cost anywhere from $5,000 to $20,000.
The costs charged by the city differ based on where you live. If you want to save money, you should check at the prices you would be paying for both options.
Do Septic Tanks Raise or Lower Property Values?
While there is considerable and diverse disagreement across the board, the general belief is that a septic system has no effect on the value of a home, either increasing or decreasing it. If you are selling a property with a septic system, it is possible that you may lose a few potential buyers as a result of the septic system. It is possible that some individuals have a negative attitude toward them, whether or not they understand why. It should not, however, have an impact on the home’s sale price.
Is Buying a House With a Septic Tank Worth It?
Finding a home that you adore might be challenging. If you have discovered the perfect house and the septic tank is the final item that is holding you back from purchasing it, go ahead and purchase the house. Major problems with septic systems are uncommon, and if a problem does emerge, it will not be a major issue if you have the necessary house warranty in place. As a matter of fact, there are numerous locations where connecting to the main sewage line is just not feasible. This makes it quite evident that you have no choice but to embrace a septic system in these situations.
The Bottom Line
It is not recommended that you place septic or sewer systems too high on your priority list when purchasing a home. Each has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Some would dispute the legitimacy of one side over the other, but on a day-to-day basis, it is not something that will have a significant impact on your life or the lives of others. Purchasing a home that has a septic system is not a bad idea. While it will take a bit extra upkeep on your part, it is not anything that should cause you to lose sleep over in the end.
Increased value from new septic system? (bedrooms, cheap, houses, buy) – Real Estate -Brokers, appraisals, development, lease, investing, relocation, apartments, houses, condos, values, mortgages, loans. – Page 3
Please registerto participate in our discussions with 2 million other members – it’s free and quick! Some forums can only be seen by registered members. After youcreate your account, you’ll be able to customize options and access all our 15,000 new posts/day with fewer ads.| 9,889 posts, read10,246,604timesReputation: 21975 |
| Your home is worth what the comps say for other similar homes have sold for recently, adjusted for differences in size, number rooms, etc.All of these homes, are assumed to have good working septic systems.If ahome does nothave a good working system, the market value is reduced to the value to replace it.When the septic problem is solved, it goes backup in value to the price similar homes are selling for.Putting in a new septic system, just brings it back up from unable to sell it, to the value of similar homes value with working septic systems.As a septic system is required to make a home saleable, it does not mean you can take the value of the home valued by comps of recent sales, and add on the new septic system costs to inflate the price of the home.Lenders, are not going to let the home be mortgaged (most sales require a mortgage), at a price above similar homes in the neighborhood, when the only reason to increase the price is the fact it has a new septic system. |
| Location: East Millcreek2,530 posts, read6,264,679timesReputation: 3000 |
| Quote:Originally Posted byStealthRabbitBuyer may not need an ‘improved’ septic.It is not worth a dime of your expense (AFAIK).I went to the trouble of getting my own installers license with the state. (WA, not NY).It was very time consuming, but I loved the education.It turned my $50k septic installs to under $5000.I can do my own conventional systems under $1200.I have my own dozer and excavator, but they can be rented for under $500 for a weekend.Nice story.You would have zero chance of pulling that off in NYS in areas under jurisdiction NYC Dept of Environmental Protection. |
| Location: East Millcreek2,530 posts, read6,264,679timesReputation: 3000 |
| Quote:Originally Posted bymomtothreeI would invest in an appraisal (especially if it’s 50k for a new septic) and ask them about the impact a new septic system would make on their appraised value.That way you can see what to ask for in your home.A realtor can get you comps but with this much money,I would use an appraiser.I’ve been through all that ad nauseum.House was well priced at $800k for 4/5 bdrms (doesn’t matter much).This was demonstrated by getting to contract very fast until the septic permitting issue arose.Without the new septic we can only list as 3 bdrm which knocks off $100k, probably more.Septic is about $30k, so it’s a no-brainer.There are very few 3 bdrm houses in the area.
Last edited by kletter1mann; 12-01-2014 at04:19 PM.Reason: clarity |
| Location: East Millcreek2,530 posts, read6,264,679timesReputation: 3000 |
| Quote:Originally Posted byoldtraderYour home is worth what the comps say for other similar homes have sold for recently, adjusted for differences in size, number rooms, etc.All of these homes, are assumed to have good working septic systems.If ahome does nothave a good working system, the market value is reduced to the value to replace it.When the septic problem is solved, it goes backup in value to the price similar homes are selling for.Putting in a new septic system, just brings itback up from unable to sell it, to the value of similar homes value with working septic systems.As a septic system is required to make a home saleable, it does not mean you can take the value of the home valued by comps of recent sales, and add on the new septic system costs to inflate the price of the home.Lenders, are not going to let the home be mortgaged (most sales require a mortgage), at a price above similar homes in the neighborhood, when the only reason to increase the price is the fact it has a new septic system.We ARE able to sell it, but only as 3 bedroom.The question is whether it’s worth any more than it was when we listed in the first place as 5 bedroom (we later knocked down a wall to make it into 4) with a perfectly functioning septic , albeit 45 years old.To repeat, the existing septic works great.The ONLY reason for the new system is because construction records from 45 years ago couldn’t be located by the county.See reply below. |
| Location: Las Vegas14,221 posts, read28,042,935timesReputation: 27565 |
| Replacing the septic just makes the home sellable.Sorry, those are dollars you are not getting back. |
| Quote:Originally Posted bykletter1mannI’ve been through all that ad nauseum.House was well priced at $800k for 4/5 bdrms (doesn’t matter much).This was demonstrated by getting to contract very fast until the septic permitting issue arose.Without the new septic we can only list as 3 bdrm which knocks off $100k, probably more.Septic is about $30k, so it’s a no-brainer.There are very few 3 bdrm houses in the area.But those aren’t actual appraisals,those are comps.Your OP stated how would a new septic tank would affect the price, if at all.An appraisal will tell you.And you can ask him or her if it would change in appraised value by adding a new septic. |
| Location: Salem, OR15,067 posts, read37,265,678timesReputation: 15839 |
| Well it seems like the septic adds $70k in value because that is what a 4/5 bedroom adds in value.A new septic tankand drainfieldadds value. A new septic tank alone, not so much.If it costs you $30k, out here I’d say you could get half of that back in a price increase. So if you were at $800 before, you could do $815 advertising the new septic system.I have no idea what your area can support though.Out here a $30k system is more than enough to cover a mound system.What kind of septic system costs that much out there? |
| Location: East Millcreek2,530 posts, read6,264,679timesReputation: 3000 |
| Quote:Originally Posted bySilverfallWell it seems like the septic adds $70k in value because that is what a 4/5 bedroom adds in value.A new septic tankand drainfieldadds value. A new septic tank alone, not so much.If it costs you $30k, out here I’d say you could get half of that back in a price increase. So if you were at $800 before, you could do $815 advertising the new septic system.I have no idea what your area can support though.Out here a $30k system is more than enough to cover a mound system.What kind of septic system costs that much out there?Simple tank and fields is about $20k for a simple gravity system with good soil (which ours is).Add $7k for engineering and permitting.Then there’s the lot survey with 2′ contour lines and all trees over 8″ mapped, another $2.5k.All test holes need to be 7 ft deep.I’m lucky, so that is my scenario. Oh yeah, I have to cut down 5 80′ oak trees ranging from 14″ to 24″.If fill is needed – which is usually the case here because of ledge, but I lucked out again – then you need enough to bring total depth to 7ft.If percolation is poor the system needs to be huge, more $$.If you need pumps etc it keeps going up.$30k is about the minimum.$50k is closer to the local norm.$70k isn’t uncommon.finally, if you don’t have room for a complete backup system then you’re screwed. |
| Location: Salem, OR15,067 posts, read37,265,678timesReputation: 15839 |
| Quote:Originally Posted bykletter1mannSimple tank and fields is about $20k for a simple gravity system with good soil (which ours is).Add $7k for engineering and permitting.Then there’s the lot survey with 2′ contour lines and all trees over 8″ mapped, another $2.5k.All test holes need to be 7 ft deep.I’m lucky, so that is my scenario. Oh yeah, I have to cut down 5 80′ oak trees ranging from 14″ to 24″.If fill is needed – which is usually the case here because of ledge, but I lucked out again – then you need enough to bring total depth to 7ft.If percolation is poor the system needs to be huge, more $$.If you need pumps etc it keeps going up.$30k is about the minimum.$50k is closer to the local norm.$70k isn’t uncommon.finally, if you don’t have room for a complete backup system then you’re screwed.Yeah you need a repair drain field here too.A simple tank and field is about $5-$7k here which includes the engineering drawings.Your pricing always reminds me about why it is hard for people to own homes in NY. |
| Location: Somewhere in America13,945 posts, read13,261,755timesReputation: 24442 |
| Being able to flush away ones waste is a requirement. Would I pay you an extra $30K for the privilege of flushing? Heck no! Is your new system worth anything? Nope. You just said yourself that there were permit issues and the house became a 3 bedroom when there’s 4 because of the septic. Problems of the current owner don’t translate into my problems when buying a house. |
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Septic Tank Installation and Replacement Cost
The typical cost in the United States ranges from $500 to $5,000. The national average cost of a septic tank installation or the cost of replacing an outdated septic system is dependent on a number of different variables.
| Septic Tank Installation | Average Costs |
|---|---|
| National Minimum Cost | $500 |
| National Maximum Cost | $5000 |
| National Average Cost | $1500 |
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, one in every five residences in the United States relies on a septic system for wastewater management (EPA). In the case of septic systems, you may have a septic system for your home alone, or you may be connected to a communal system that services a small number of homes. Untreated wastewater created by a house or company is treated on site by a septic system, which is an on-site treatment system. Sewage lines convey wastewater from your shower, toilet, sinks, clothes washer, and trash disposal away from your home and into a septic tank buried in your yard.
Solids are separated from floatable debris in the septic tank, and the leftover liquid drains from the tank through a series of perforated tubes and onto a drain field or leach field after being separated in the tank.
The usage of septic systems is popular in rural regions that do not have access to a centralized municipal sewer system.
Tank capacity ranges from less than 1,000 gallons to more than 2,000 gallons, with the size of the tank determined by the quantity of water you consume on a daily basis.
Condos, apartments, residences, business spaces, and other types of structures might benefit from septic system installation or replacement services.
What’s in this cost guide?
- Soil type
- Tank size and kind
- Equipment
- Installation
- Maintenance
- Lift station
- And more. Septic systems that are not conventional
- How septic tanks function
- Signs that you need to upgrade your system
- How to employ a professional
Alternative septic systems
Alternative techniques are particularly effective on steep locations, highly rocky land, or poor soil. Among the options available are aerobic septic systems, mound septic systems, raised-bed septic systems, and others. The cost of a septic system installation or replacement may be greater or cheaper than the average depending on the area and kind of system. Locate the most qualified septic system consultant for your project needs. Zip code must be entered correctly.
Signs you need a new system
Anyone would not want sewage water rising up through their front yard on one of the hottest days of the summer season (or even on the coldest day of winter). Waterborne pathogens such as protozoa, bacteria (such as E. coli), and viruses may be spread through fecal matter, making wastewater not just stinking and disgusting, but also potentially deadly. It is possible for unclean wastewater to drain through the soil and pollute the water you and your friends and neighbors drink if your septic system is leaky, overwhelmed, or otherwise compromised.
Knowing what indicators to look for might help you catch an issue before it becomes a major problem.
This includes having your septic tank pumped out by a professional every three to five years.
Other indicators may indicate that it is necessary to contact a septic system specialist as soon as possible to either repair or replace the system.
How Much Does a Septic System Cost: Replacement and New
If your septic system is in need of replacement, call us today. Is it important for you to know how much it will cost to rebuild your septic system? In the event that you’re thinking of purchasing a home that will require a new septic tank system or obtaining a construction loan to develop a new property, you may be interested in knowing the average cost of a septic system.
It is quite expensive to purchase such a system because it takes a substantial amount of labor from your contractor. A variety of factors influence the cost of a conventional septic system. Examine the factors to consider while establishing or updating a septic system.
What is a Septic System, and How Does it Work?
A septic system is an underground wastewater treatment facility that is most commonly employed where there is no access to a municipal sewage system. Instead of urban regions, they are more typically seen in rural locations. A basic septic system is comprised of three components: a septic tank, a distribution box, and a leach field (or leach field). A leach field is also referred to as a drain field or a soil absorption field in some circles. A septic tank aids in the digestion of organic matter and the separation of floatable stuff such as fats, oils, and solids from wastewater in the treatment process.
The first septic tanks were put in place in the late 1800s, but it was not until the 1960s that they began to gain widespread acceptance.
How Much Does a Septic Tank Cost?
The cost of a septic tank is determined by a variety of factors. The number of bedrooms in your home is the single most important element in determining how much you will have to pay for a septic tank installation. More bedrooms imply a greater number of potential tenants, as well as a greater capacity septic tank required. The size of a septic tank for a three-bedroom house is typically 1000 gallons in capacity. The price of a 1000-gallon septic tank ranges from around $600 to $1200. Please keep in mind that the cost of a product might vary greatly depending on where you are located on a price spectrum.
A bigger septic tank will cost you between $1200 and $2000, depending on its size.
When it comes to septic systems, however, this is not where the most expensive parts of the system are located.
When considering the installation of a new septic system or the replacement of an existing one, consider how much money will be spent on the leaching area.
The Cost of Septic System Installation
Understanding how much it will cost to replace a septic system is significantly more important than understanding how much it will cost to replace a tank. When compared to the expense of repairing a leach field, the cost of replacing a septic tank is comparatively affordable. The cost of replacing a leach field might range from $5000 to $50,000 or even more!. That is right; you read that correctly. The cost of a septic system replacement can vary greatly depending on a number of factors, including the soil’s health, the level of the water table, the presence of designated wetlands nearby, and the location of your property.
- The engineer will begin by doing a land survey to assess the costs of the system replacement.
- They will create what is known as a “as-built” model, which depicts how the system is put together.
- They make use of the information gathered from these tests in order to build a septic system that will work effectively.
- Due to the fact that clay-rich soils must be replenished by trucking in gravel, having clay-rich soils increases the cost of the project.
- Local health officials will almost certainly require that the septic system be elevated 3-4 feet above the water table.
- If your property is located in an area with a high water table, you might expect to pay a higher installation fee.
In this sort of circumstance, your contractor will be required to bring in enormous quantities of aggregate in order to boost the height of the leaching field. Your installation expenses will be significantly increased as a result of this.
Who Installs Septic Systems?
A septic system is blocked by a business that is authorized to provide this type of service. Before selecting a septic installation firm, it is critical to conduct due diligence in the same way you would in any other business. Make careful you interview a number of different companies and obtain written estimates. A septic system replacement might cost anywhere from $1,000 to $10,000, depending on the provider you work with. Permitting, installation, and restoration charges for your yard should all be included in the quotation.
Speaking with relatives and friends for recommendations on people they know or with whom they have done business is something I would encourage.
If you’re still having trouble finding what you’re looking for, you may try searching for septic system installers near me, septic system installers nearby, or septic system contractors near me in the Google search engine.
Why Do Septic Systems Fail?
Septic systems, like many other things, will eventually fail to work correctly after many years of use. The way you care for and maintain your system has a huge impact on how long it will endure and perform. For example, having a waste disposal in conjunction with a septic system is strongly discouraged. Food and other garbage are not intended to be flushed down the toilet or into a septic system. Over time, these obstructions can choke leach lines, resulting in a situation in which the system is unable to perform its functions correctly.
Only biodegradable items should be flushed down a toilet, according to EPA guidelines.
By properly maintaining your septic system, you may extend its life expectancy by several years.
Buying and Selling a Home With a Septic System
When purchasing or selling a house, it is essential to have the septic system inspected. It is a substantial obstacle to overcome, much like a house inspection. Nobody wants to purchase a lemon and then have to incur the additional price of replacing a septic system, which might cost thousands of dollars. Septic system inspections are required by law in certain places, and in others they are optional. A requirement known as Title Vrequires a seller in the state of Massachusetts to check their septic system before they may sell their home.
- Title V septic inspections are usually between $700 and $1000 in price.
- If the seller’s septic system fails the inspection, he or she has two options.
- By completing the escrow holdback, the agreed-upon closing date may be maintained uninterrupted.
- For example, if the cost of replacing the septic system is $20,000, they will request a holdback of $30,000 from the sale.
- Over the years, I’ve sold a number of homes that had a broken septic system, and we finalized the transaction by putting an escrow holdback on the property.
Another important point to remember is that if you have a septic system, you must be careful not to overstate the number of bedrooms you have. As a result of your actions, you may find yourself in court. Real estate agents and sellers have been sued and found to be in violation of the law.
Getting a Septic System Replacement Loan
Is it possible to receive a loan to rebuild your septic system? This is a question that I’ve received several times throughout the years. Yes, and some governments will also give financial aid in the form of grants. Here is a list of resources that can assist you in obtaining finance for septic system replacement.
You Need a Permit for Your Septic System
It is necessary to get a permission from the county clerk’s office, the environmental or zoning department, or both, before you can begin your installation. Depending on the state you live in, you should anticipate to pay between $300 and $500 for this service. Permits for business usage might cost up to three times as much as residential permits.
When is the Septic Tank Installed During a New Build?
Your contractor will have to wait until the frame of the house is complete before doing the groundwork essential for the installation of the septic system. A hole excavated before to this time may cause problems with the building process and cause it to be delayed. Trucks parking on the lot would have to be carefully positioned in order to prevent hitting the hole, which might jeopardize the work and increase your expenditures. Most of the time, your contractor will include the cost of installing your septic system in the total cost of your project.
Here are some additional questions to ask a builder if you are constructing a home for the very first time.
Video: How to Find Your Septic System
What is the location of your septic system tank? In this video, you will learn some useful suggestions on how to locate your septic system.
What to Know About Septic System Maintenance
Because the cost of septic system installation and the materials necessary is significant, you want to be certain that it lasts as long as possible before replacing it. If it is maintained on a regular basis, you should experience less difficulties with it and it should last longer before it has to be replaced. Pumping and cleaning the tank that will be used to remove the sludge will usually be included in the maintenance schedule. This should help the drain field to endure for a longer period of time before it has to be replaced.
However, if you have a large family of 6 or more individuals, this may be necessary on a yearly basis.
In addition to your geographic location, the cost of tank maintenance is determined by how easy it is to get to the tank.
How Do You Know When a Septic Tank System Needs Replacing?
Septic systems are typically good for 20 to 30 years, and in some cases even longer, before they need to be upgraded or replaced. Some symptoms might suggest that there is an issue with your computer’s operating system.
Green Grass
If you have grass growing over your drain field, does the grass appear to be growing more vigorously than in other areas?
Are there any plants in the vicinity that are growing at a higher rate than the rest of the plants? If you can’t identify any other reason for this to be happening, it might be a hint that the drain field isn’t performing as it is supposed to.
Yard Puddles
Having a puddle in your yard despite the fact that it hasn’t rained may indicate that your drain field isn’t performing as planned by the manufacturer. Assuming that there is an unpleasant stench along with the puddles, you can expect to discover that your septic system has failed.
Flushing Problems
A blocked toilet flush and the appearance of clogged pipes might indicate that there is a problem with the plumbing system in your home. An foul stench in the home might also be an indication that something is wrong with your septic system and needs to be addressed.
Overflowing
A tank that is overflowing indicates that it is not working properly. Septic tanks eventually collapse over time, especially if they have not been serviced on a regular basis.
Contamination
A septic system that does not function properly may cause well water to become contaminated, necessitating the need for immediate repair. If the local board of health determines that your property is filthy and has the potential to infect other properties in the area, they may decide to condemn it.
Cost to Replace a Septic System vs. Installing New
It is possible that you may need to replace your system, and the cost will be more than it would be if you had a new system constructed from the ground up. This might occur as a result of the price connected with the removal of the old system, as well as the possibility of contamination. In some cases, you may discover that all you need to do is replace the pump in order to have your septic system running properly once more. Pumps normally need to be replaced every 10 years and might cost between $1,000 and $2,000 to purchase and install.
When leach fields cease to function as intended, they nearly usually require replacement or repair.
Miscellaneous Septic System Repair Costs
Some components of a septic system may require replacement at some time in the future. Listed below are the options, together with their associated costs:
- The baffle is a component of the septic tank that prevents the accumulation of scum in the tank’s inlets and outflow pipes. It should be replaced every five years. Approximately $300-600 will be spent to replace it. Tank cover – Because the tank cover is composed of concrete, it is susceptible to deterioration over time. Approximately a few hundred dollars is required to replace one of these devices. a concrete distribution box (also known as a D-box for short) is a smaller tank that is responsible for distributing liquids out to the leach field. The typical cost of replacing a distribution box is between $600 and $1300.
Can You Repair a Septic Leach Field?
Years ago, the answer to this question would have been no; a septic leach field could not be repaired. Today, the answer is yes. Today, it is more likely that you will be able to avoid the costly and time-consuming process of replacing the entire leach field. Septic aeration is a technique that has been developed. It is essentially a matter of adding oxygen to wastewater using aeration machines that dissolve oxygen to encourage aerobic digestion. A classic septic system operates in an anaerobic (oxygen-free) environment, resulting in the formation of a black, sludge-like layer in the leach field known as the biomat.
The septic system eventually fails as a result of this.
It may be built in a short amount of time. With the addition of oxygen to the septic tank, aerobic bacteria will flourish, consuming twenty to thirty times the amount of organic material that anaerobic bacteria would eat.
How Septic Aeration Works
As a result of the aerobic bacteria, the amount of nutrients in the septic tank effluent that the biomat needed to survive and develop has been greatly reduced. The biomat eventually succumbs to the elements. Aerobic bacteria that exit the septic tank along with water that contains high amounts of dissolved oxygen feed on the biomat, causing it to shrink even further in size and effectiveness. The mechanism causes the biomat to diminish in size until it is no longer visible on the surface. It will take many weeks for the earth and sidewalls of the leach field to revert to a porous state, and the aerobic septic system will work as if it had just been constructed.
What you avoid with septic aeration is the need to dig up your yard and the expenditure of tens of thousands of dollars.
A septic system firm in your area should be able to offer you with such information as well.
Final Thoughts on The Costs of Septic Systems
As a result of the aerobic bacteria, the amount of nutrients in the septic tank effluent that the biomat needed to survive and develop has been greatly reduced. The aerobic bacteria When the biomat reaches a certain point, it starts to die. Aerobic bacteria that exit the septic tank with water that contains high amounts of dissolved oxygen feed on the biomat, causing it to shrink even more in size. Because of the mechanism, the biomat’s size gradually decreases until it has totally vanished. The ground and sidewalls of the leach field will revert to a porous state, and the aerobic septic system will work as if it had just been put in place.
With septic aeration, you may avoid digging up your lawn and incurring tens of thousands of dollars in additional costs.
Alternatively, a local septic system provider should be able to assist you with this.
