AFFORDABLE SEPTIC TANK INSTALLATION IN South Dennis, MA

What Is the Process for Septic Tank Installation in South Dennis?

Septic tank installation is a big deal. It doesn’t seem like anything important from a layperson’s point of view, but your septic system can have a direct effect on the health and safety of your family and everyone around you. For safety and health reasons, septic tanks are highly regulated when installed and inspected regularly. Any repairs or replacements must also have a permit to begin and need to be inspected regularly.

Whether you need a brand new septic tank for new construction or replace an existing system, you’ll need to start by checking the local regulations. South Dennis requires that you submit a building plan to the Board of Health proposing the location and specifications of the septic tank you will need. There may be some questions about your building plan or amendments may be required. The soil must pass inspection as well as some surrounding features of the land. Once you have that squared away, you can move on to the permitting and installation process. 

How Does Permitting Work for Installing Septic Tanks in South Dennis?

New homeowners must obtain the relevant DEP-approved application forms first. Applications are required for permission to construct and approval for construction. A soil test and a percolation test must be conducted by authorized staff before permits are granted. Before you apply for a permit for septic tank installation you’ll need the Disposal System Construction Permit Application signed by a licensed installer like us, one set of floor plans, 2 engineered blueprints of the septic system design (1 copy must be signed in red ink by the design engineer or surveyor), completed Trench Permit Application and a fee of $50 (if applicable), and a check made payable to “Town of Dennis” in the amount of $110.

After construction or repair, a Certificate of Compliance will be issued by the Board of Health and your septic tank is then legal.

South Dennis’s Title 5 Septic Rules tell you everything you need to know to install, use, and care for your septic system. 

How Much Does Septic Tank Installation Usually Cost in South Dennis?

The cost of a septic system is relevant to your specific situation. A lot of small factors can make a big difference both up and down in terms of the final cost. In general, an entire septic system, including a leach field and piping, would be in the $10,000 range. A new tank system is usually in the $3,000 price range, but a new tank alone can be as little as a few hundred dollars. The best site conditions give you the best prices. An ideal site would include a wide-open spot with easy access to the septic tank installation site, an excellent soil percolation rate, and a low or average water table. 

The final cost of a septic system in the village of South Dennis, MA depends on a few factors unique to your situation. These could include:

Number of Bedrooms in the Home

How many bedrooms the house has makes a difference in price because it suggests the maximum number of occupants at any given time. The more people living in the home, the more use the septic system gets, and the higher capacity tank you will need. A 3-bedroom home usually requires a 1,000-gallon septic tank which can cost anywhere from $600 to $1,200. Homes with 4 bedrooms or more need a septic tank of 1,500 gallons or larger. You’ll pay between $1,200 and $2,000 for a larger septic tank. Basically, the size of your tank has a large impact on the size of your final bill. It’s also important to consider all the possible sources of waste, from the toilet to the dishwasher, when you choose your tank size. 

Underground or Above Ground?

A septic tank that is placed above ground, called a mound system, is much more labor-intensive than a conventional system underground. It requires special equipment and more labor force to build the mound from the proper materials to sufficiently protect the septic equipment. They also use a pump to bring wastewater up to be treated. They are typically used in areas with a high water table, a lack of soil, or bedrock. They can be a lifesaver, but also an eyesore. Roots from nearby greenery can damage mound systems, so they must be inspected by our team yearly.

With a conventional septic system, there’s no need for a pump because all the components are underground. The septic tank holds waste as it takes the solids from the liquids. The leach field treats the wastewater and drains it. Conventional septic systems are typically used because they cost less. Inspections also occur every 3 years; less frequently than mound systems.

Septic Tank Material

Septic tanks are made from a variety of materials. Some last longer than others. Most are made from concrete, fiberglass, polyethylene, or coated steel. Typically, septic tanks with a capacity smaller than 6,000 gallons are pre-manufactured. Larger septic tanks are constructed in place or assembled on-site from pre-manufactured sections. Higher quality materials, such as high-density polyethylene, are pricier than models made of concrete. However, cheaper models almost always require more frequent replacement. The type of septic tank you choose should be able to deal with any heavy traffic and easily fit in the space you’ve designated for placement. For instance, if you don’t want a lightweight tank if you’re concerned about heavy vehicles sitting on or near it. 

What Type of Septic Tank Is Best for Residents in South Dennis?

The best type of septic tank for your home in the village of South Dennis is heavily dependent on the land you intend to put it on. If you have a high water table, heavy traffic, waterfront, or ledge conditions, you’ll need to factor that into your thoughts on the septic tank you choose. We’ve already discussed when and why you would need a mound or conventional septic tank, but there are a few other types you may want to consider.

Fiberglass septic tanks are resistant to rust. They are manufactured as either one large unit or as two units put together, which can cause some trouble if they aren’t made to manufacturing standards. They require less digging than other types of septic tanks which is a great convenience if your soil is rocky or has a ledge. Fiberglass septic tanks are resistant to acid & alkali action and don’t age easily. They can last for as much as 50 years.

Concrete septic tanks are the heaviest of all types. They are pre-casted and resist just about any pressure you put on them, including a heavy truck parked on top of it in most cases. There are two types of concrete septic tanks; the all-in-one system and single structure tanks. All-in-one concrete tanks house all chambers while single structure concrete tanks have separately pre-casted chambers. Concrete tans have a higher effluent capacity and less risk of collapsing when pumped.

Plastic septic tanks are a relatively new way to go. They are much lighter than other types of tanks which makes them easier to install and maneuver. They are less likely to crack compared to concrete. Plastic and concrete tanks are two of the least expensive types to choose from. They can pop out when buoyant forces apply, which could be an issue in some parts of South Dennis.

Steel septic tanks are susceptible to rust and aren’t used very often. But like concrete, these types of septic tanks are very strong and have little risk of damage from buoyant forces. They are one of the priciest types of tanks to choose from.

How Often Do Homeowners in South Dennis Need to Have Their Septic Tank Inspected?

Septic tank damage is expensive. A septic tank explosion can kill the whole system and shoot sludge into the nearby environment, contaminating the area. It can cost thousands of dollars just to clean up the mess. Imagine yourself waking up for your morning shower, only to find sewage backing up in the drain as your toes hit the tub. Not a pretty picture. Regular inspections by professionals like us are the only way to keep this from happening.

Residents of South Dennis should have their conventional septic system inspected by our team every 3 years. If you have a mound system, you’ll need an inspection every year. 

Are There Any Rebates Available for Septic Tank Services in South Dennis?

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts provides a tax credit of up to $6,000 over 4 years to offset the cost of septic repairs to a Massachusetts primary residence. The village of South Dennis also provides a homeowner septic loan program. Participating banks offer low-interest loans to South Dennis homeowners whose septic systems have failed inspection.