Are you facing a septic system replacement or a large scale repair? Knowing the steps that are needed to complete the process ahead of time will save headaches along the way and will help manage expectations. It is critical to remember that once a new septic system is in ground, it is meant to last for 40 or 50 years. That’s why a careful and proper approach to septic installation is necessary for long-term performance, and this can take time to achieve. Here is what you can expect from start to finish
Identifying a Failure
In cases where an existing septic system has lived out its useful life, replacement is the only option. If your drainfield was constructed in the 1960s or 1970s, chances are it cannot be rehabilitated. However, it is always a good idea to have an expert evaluate the system to assess whether functionality can be restored with a smaller repair.
Selecting and Hiring a Designer
On-Site designers are licensed at the state level, so they can theoretically operate anywhere in Washington. A list of currently licensed designers in good standing can be found on the Department of Licensing website, but consulting with a septic pumper or inspector will help you narrow down which designers work in your immediate area. Contact The Septic Group to acquire a referral list for designers who work specifically in the King and Snohomish county areas. Once you have hired a designer, they will conduct a soil evaluation on your property to determine the best spot for a new system to be installed. They will then prepare a site plan with drawings that describe characteristics and placement for the new system components. The design packet they prepare is then submitted to the county health department for review and approval.
Review and Approval
Your project will be assigned to a sanitarian working for the county health department. In most cases the sanitarian will also visit your property to ensure the proposed design matches site constraints and code requirements. Once the design is approved, it is valid for a period of 2 years before it expires. The approved design is what you will use to solicit bids for installation.
Selecting an Installer
Septic system installers are licensed at the county level, so inquiring with your local health department will help you verify whether your installer has a current license in good standing. You will also want to make sure the installer carries proper insurance and bonding. When reviewing bids, it is best to select one that is comprehensive and explicitly details all costs, terms, and responsibilities clearly. Just like any other major purchase, you get what you pay for, so the lowest price bid may end up being the most expensive in the long run!
Permitting
Once an Installer is chosen, your septic installation permit will be issued directly to them. Oftentimes there are prerequisites to obtaining the permit, such as a preconstruction conference or recording specific documents.
Installation
Upon receipt of the installation permit, your project can be scheduled. The actual amount of time the work on site will take is unique to each installation. Discuss with your Installer whether you will be able to remain in the house using the facilities while the work is in progress. Installing a septic system is extremely disruptive – for example installing a new septic tank requires excavating a hole large enough to bury a sedan! Be prepared for huge piles of soil or aggregate in the yard.
Inspections and Final Approval
A good Installer will run a newly installed system through a quality control check first before assembling the other parties for final inspection. To obtain final approval both the designer and the sanitarian with the health department need to examine the installation for functionality and to verify that all code requirements were met. It can take some time to get everyone on board for the final inspections, so your yard will be unsightly for a while.
Backfill
After the final approvals are granted the system can be buried and the surface of the ground smoothed over. The resulting area will be bare dirt with some rocks or sticks that may have been churned up during excavation. You can then apply grass seed or sod over the area to help the lawn re-establish itself if desired.
Need Septic Installation in Lake Stevens?
A septic installation is a lengthy and expensive process, so it is extremely important to make sure it’s done right. Choosing a reputable Installer who takes pride in their work will save you money and stress. The licensed Installers at The Septic Group are here to help you through this process and answer any questions you may have along the way.
The Best Septic Installation in Lake Stevens
Posted on May 19, 2025 | Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Business