"Well. Only problem was delay in response time after claim was filed online. Water tank started leaking Thanksgiving morning and no reply until I called the Regional Manager."
"Takes for ever to get a return a call. Also took a week to get someone out for repairs. They said they would reimburse me for septic repairs and it took over 3 months for that to happen."
Although cesspits may be necessary depending on your main sewage system access or nearby soil quality, they carry a few drawbacks. Cesspools require regular emptying and have relatively high maintenance and pumping costs. Certain areas also disallow the use of cesspools and may require you to cover the cost of existing cesspools to be converted into septic tanks.
The price you’ll pay for service from a septic tank company will depend on the specific service you need. Here are some common services, along with average pricing:
Anaerobic septic system installation: $3,000–$8,000
Aerobic septic system installation: $10,000–$20,000
Septic tank pumping: $250–$550
Percolation test: $700–$2,000
Leach field installation: $2,000–$10,000
These numbers vary based on your septic system size, property layout, and more, so the best way to get an accurate estimate is to contact a septic tank professional for a custom quote.
If you aren’t sure if you have a septic tank or a cesspit, you can check your property records or inspect your drainage system. A septic tank has an outlet pipe that allows liquid to drain into a soakaway or drain field, while a cesspit is a sealed tank that requires frequent emptying. If you notice a manhole cover and no nearby drainage field, it’s likely a cesspit. Signs like slow drainage or a frequent need for pumping can also provide clues. A professional inspection is the easiest way to confirm if your home runs on a septic tank or cesspit.
Septic tank locations are sometimes public record, although it depends on local laws and the property age. Older properties may not have the septic tank information on public record. To check, you can talk to local permitting agencies, such as your local health department, the local environmental department, or the county clerk.
Septic drain lines (or leach lines) are typically buried between 18 and 36 inches underground, and should be at least 6 inches below the surface. These pipes are perforated and surrounded by filtering materials like sand or gravel. Burying the lines at this depth helps minimize odors and allows bacteria and other biological processes in the soil to effectively treat the wastewater. Burying lines too close to the surface can cause issues unless the soil is very compact and stable.
The Broadus, MT homeowners’ guide to septic tank services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
A damaged septic system can leak odors and sewage, so repairs are urgent. Find out how much septic tank repair costs based on repair type, tank size, and more.
It’s crucial to install a septic tank with the right volume to avoid wastewater backups. This guide will help you calculate the right septic tank volume.
Septic tank sizes vary depending on the size of your home, how many people live there, how much water you use, and more. Read on to learn how to determine the right size for you.