Get matched with top septic tank pros in Smithfield, VA

Q: How deep should the drain field be under the ground?

• <div><p>Your drain field or leach field should be <b>1 to 3 feet</b> under the ground. It will be a little shallower than the septic tank, although it can be the same depth or slightly deeper. The <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-deep-is-septic-tank.htm">proper depth of the septic tank</a> is up to <b>4 feet</b>. It&rsquo;s possible that your local regulatory agency requires a certain depth for your drain field.</p></div>

Q: Can you cover a septic tank riser with dirt?

• <div><p>You can cover a septic tank riser with dirt, but it&rsquo;s not always the best idea. If you have a plastic riser and you bury it, you can easily lose track of it since you won&rsquo;t be able to find it with a metal detector. Make sure to clearly note where your rise is in your yard so that you&rsquo;re able to access it easily the next time you or a septic pro needs it. Don&rsquo;t bury the cover too deep or you could place too much stress on it and make it too difficult to access in the future.</p></div>

Q: How can I add or replenish good bacteria in my septic tank?

• <div><p>Your septic tank naturally contains the good bacteria it needs, so you typically don't have to add more as the system produces them on its own. However, if you wish to replenish the bacteria, you can use natural methods. For example, you can add three rotten tomatoes to your garbage disposal or flush 1/4 ounce of active yeast down the toilet every three months. While store-bought septic enzymes and chemicals are available, many additives are unnecessary and may even harm your system. The most effective way to maintain a healthy bacterial balance is to avoid using chemical drain cleaners, which can kill the beneficial bacteria in your tank.</p></div>

Q: How long does it take a well to replenish water?

• <div><p>Wells typically replenish at a rate of about five gallons per minute, but several variables can influence how quickly they refill. A deep well will take more time to replenish than a shallow one. The replenishment rate can be slowed by issues such as leaks, damage, a faulty well pump, or a clogged well screen. Other factors, such as the surrounding geology, regular precipitation, and proper maintenance, also affect the recovery rate.</p></div>

Q: What are the warning signs of septic tank or cistern failure?

• <div><p>If there&rsquo;s a problem with your sewage system, you might notice water pooling on the ground around the tank, which could indicate an overflow. Clogged and sluggish drains or foul smells coming from your plumbing are also signs that there might be a blockage in your septic system.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Septic Tank Service pros in Smithfield, VA

*The Angi rating for Septic Tank Service companies in Smithfield, VA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Septic Tank Service needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Septic Tank Service companies in Smithfield, VA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Septic Tank Service needs.

Last update on July 18, 2026

Reviewed in July 2026
The flusher tank on the toilet was not working properly. JaJuan quickly diagnosed and repaired the problem. He also explained why it wasn’t working and gave a range of possible ways to resolve it. This gave me the chance to choose how much cost I wanted to put into parts involved.
A1 Sewer & Drain Plumbing & Water Heaters
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Reviewed in May 2023
Jason took the time to explain differences in tank and tankless water heaters, and he was available on the next business day after we chatted. He took care of a few other plumbing issues I had in the house. He was very friendly and efficient.
Hampton Roads Water Services
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Reviewed in February 2023
This company was hired to caulk my kitchen sink and install a fill valve in the commode. I appreciated the fact that the technician came out on Superbowl Sunday. However, he didn't have all tools needed for the job. Water was spilled all over the bathroom floor, he didn't have the...
Infinity Improvements
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Reviewed in February 2018
They are very professional, called immediately, and replaced my hot water tank the very next morning. Very affordable compared to other companies with the same 6 yr warranty!!!! I would recommend them. I plan on getting another quote and hiring them again for a smaller plumbing issue next week...
Cassidy's Plumbing Co. Inc.
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Reviewed in September 2017
I gave them an A earlier because I was unaware my tank was still leaking. I had tried to fix the toilet myself and was unsuccessful the first time so I contacted Just Plumbing and ask them to come fix it. The first plumber that came out attempted the fix using the materials I had purchased at...
Eastern Mechanical Corporation DBA Just Plumbing
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Reviewed in May 2016
Goodman was polite, on time and professional. He even offered a 1 year warranty I'm the event my septic needs to be cleaned or pumped
Goodman's Septic Tank Service - Home Facebook
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Reviewed in January 2016
Called before he showed up quickly got to work. Recommended replacing some old pipes, gave a quote got to work fixed the problem all working well. I would recommend this company to anyone needing plumbing work done. Gave me information on replacing my hot water tank. <br />
Fitch Specialties LLC
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Reviewed in February 2014
Wonderful people, very professional, responds quickly to requests. Only negative is price of heating oil and 15 year mandatory agreement penalty ($3000.00 if default) for new oil tank. We have been with E.T. Lawson since 1992. Can only remember one complaint I made to them. We have decided...
ET Lawson
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Find Septic tank pros in Smithfield

Awesome Drain Cleaning and Water Line Repair

4.1(

)

Septic System - Install or ReplaceSeptic System - Install or Replace - For BusinessSeptic System - Repair+3 more

Serving Smithfield, VA and surrounding areas

In business since 2019

Emergency services offered

Credit card accepted

SAME DAY EMERGENCY SERVICES ONLY! Phone calls only to 757 575 3159. SAME DAY SERVICES!!!! $120 Diagnosis Fee will be waived based on the authorization to proceed with any work. Drain cleaning drain repairing waterline repairing complete water and drain line service LLC. $98 Emergency Service Charge for all After Hours Emergency Services. We have the experience and dedication to make sure your job is done right. Please call to schedule diagnosis today.\nhttps://www.awesomedrainva.com/plumber-services

+75

Recommended by78%of homeowners

Septic System - Install or ReplaceSeptic System - Install or Replace - For BusinessSeptic System - Repair+3 more

Serving Smithfield, VA and surrounding areas

In business since 2004

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Plumbing:
Previous experience was good and recommended to a neighbor for plumbing work. Requested service and immediately had a time that worked for me. Gentleman called to let me know he was on his way during the period I expected them and showed with no issues. Services performed professionally and friendly. no issues. I'm sure I'll need them again and when I do, expect the same courteous service and professionalism. We are happy with their work. Website I used is: http://www.lanthornplumbing.com/ and phone is (757) 729-4775.
"

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Septic System - Install or ReplaceSeptic System - Install or Replace - For BusinessSeptic System - Repair+3 more

Serving Smithfield, VA and surrounding areas

In business since 2008

Emergency services offered

Credit card accepted

"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."

Recommended by81%of homeowners

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American Home Shield – Home Warranty

3.5(

5,689

)

Septic System - Install or ReplaceSeptic System - Install or Replace - For BusinessSeptic System - Repair+3 more

Serving Smithfield, VA and surrounding areas

In business since 1971

Credit card accepted

"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."

Recommended by65%of homeowners

Septic System - Install or ReplaceSeptic System - Install or Replace - For BusinessSeptic System - Repair+3 more

Serving Smithfield, VA and surrounding areas

In business since 2010

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

The Gillen Company is an all purpose general contractor company in the Kempsville Area of Virginia Beach. We offer financing, and accept all major credit cards.

+16

Recommended by77%of homeowners

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Hogges Plumbing and Septic Service

New to Angi

Septic System - RepairSeptic Tank - Clean or Pump Out

Serving Smithfield, VA and surrounding areas

In business since 2025

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

We are committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. \nWe uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal \nresponsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. \nAccurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true \nprofessionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers' interests and make \ntheir concerns the basis of our business.

Septic System - Install or ReplaceSeptic System - Install or Replace - For BusinessSeptic System - Repair+3 more

Serving Smithfield, VA and surrounding areas

In business since 1996

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

RICHARD'S we are class A contractors Residential & Commercial Builders , RGSPROS.COM WE DO WHAT OTHERS CAN NOT !!! ADDITIONS : DECKS : WINDOWS : WINDOW REPAIR : TERMITE & MOISTURE DAMAGE : TRIM WORK : FRAMING : SIDING : PAINTING : KITCHENS : BATHROOMS : GENERAL CONTRACTOR : BUILDER thank you call us anytime 7578690380 we take PayPal ,credit cards , cash, check we also provide emergency services as well SEWAGEPROS.COM WE ALSO SERVICE OBX OBX DIVISION 252-489-7363

+529

Recommended by70%of homeowners

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Hollywood Welding & Fabrication

4.0(

)

Septic System - Install or ReplaceSeptic System - Install or Replace - For BusinessSeptic System - Repair+3 more

Serving Smithfield, VA and surrounding areas

In business since 2021

Emergency services offered

Credit card accepted

Services offered (but not limited to):\n\n General excavation\n New driveway installation and driveway repair\n Septic installation and repair\n Building site prep and concrete slab installation\n Stone and dirt delivery\n Yard grading and drainage work\n Land clearing and stump removal\n Field mowing, brush hogging and york raking\n Structure demolition and removal\n Junk clean out and removal\n Post hole and pond digging\n Stone wall building\n Tree work and light logging\n Spring cleanup\n Welding and fabrication

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Wildest inc LLC

New to Angi

Septic System - Install or ReplaceSeptic System - Install or Replace - For BusinessSeptic System - Repair+1 more

Serving Smithfield, VA and surrounding areas

Emergency services offered

Warranties offered

Small jobs welcome

Been with my partner for 17 yrs we have done everything from dirt to roof tops on houses hotels motel apartments when I say everything i mean everything you name we can do it ni job to small no job too big free estimates if contract is made no hassle guaranteed professional services, a 100%. We're class A contractors with a great team to get the job done in a timely manner. No need to worry we're here to save the day just one call away.

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Septic Tanks questions, answered by experts

Your drain field or leach field should be 1 to 3 feet under the ground. It will be a little shallower than the septic tank, although it can be the same depth or slightly deeper. The proper depth of the septic tank is up to 4 feet. It’s possible that your local regulatory agency requires a certain depth for your drain field.

You can cover a septic tank riser with dirt, but it’s not always the best idea. If you have a plastic riser and you bury it, you can easily lose track of it since you won’t be able to find it with a metal detector. Make sure to clearly note where your rise is in your yard so that you’re able to access it easily the next time you or a septic pro needs it. Don’t bury the cover too deep or you could place too much stress on it and make it too difficult to access in the future.

Your septic tank naturally contains the good bacteria it needs, so you typically don't have to add more as the system produces them on its own. However, if you wish to replenish the bacteria, you can use natural methods. For example, you can add three rotten tomatoes to your garbage disposal or flush 1/4 ounce of active yeast down the toilet every three months. While store-bought septic enzymes and chemicals are available, many additives are unnecessary and may even harm your system. The most effective way to maintain a healthy bacterial balance is to avoid using chemical drain cleaners, which can kill the beneficial bacteria in your tank.

Wells typically replenish at a rate of about five gallons per minute, but several variables can influence how quickly they refill. A deep well will take more time to replenish than a shallow one. The replenishment rate can be slowed by issues such as leaks, damage, a faulty well pump, or a clogged well screen. Other factors, such as the surrounding geology, regular precipitation, and proper maintenance, also affect the recovery rate.

If there’s a problem with your sewage system, you might notice water pooling on the ground around the tank, which could indicate an overflow. Clogged and sluggish drains or foul smells coming from your plumbing are also signs that there might be a blockage in your septic system.

The Smithfield, VA homeowners’ guide to septic tank services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

See all articles

Melissa Graham
•
Aug 3, 2026Aug 3, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Locate a Septic Tank? [2026 Data]
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•
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How Much Does It Cost to Pump a Septic Tank? [2026 Data]
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•
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Crank Up Your Understanding of Septic Tank Volume
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•
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What’s the Right Septic Tank Size for Me?
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•
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If you’ve never lived in a house with a septic system before, you might be wondering: Are septic tanks bad? Here are some of the pros and cons.
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•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 2026
How to Build a Small Septic Tank for a Rural Property
Want to learn how to build a septic tank for your rural or off-grid property? First, check your local laws, then dive into these general guidelines.