AFFORDABLE SEPTIC TANK INSTALLATION IN Coatesville, PA

What Is the Process for Septic Tank Installation in Coatesville?

Before replacing a septic tank or installing one for the first time, in Coatesville, you will need to obtain a septic tank permit. Your permit is typically good for up to 3 years, which will give you plenty of time to schedule and install your septic tank. 

Next, you will need to have a soil evaluation or deep test performed. The soil evaluation will include digging 2 deep holes in the property where you intend to install the septic tank. Each hole will be approximately 3 feet wide, 8 feet long, and 7 feet deep. These holes will help determine how deep your septic tank needs to be installed. 

Finally, you will need a percolation test that will establish how well the ground absorbs water. If the percolation test shows that water absorbs slowly in the area, you may need a larger septic tank system than if the water absorbs relatively quickly. If the percolation test fails, you may also need to change the planned location of your septic tank or conduct additional tests to uncover the best method for disposing of wastewater at your property. 

Once you have received approval for the construction of your septic tank, you can have our experts begin construction. After the system is complete, but before covering the finished system, the Department of Health will need to conduct a final inspection. You will need to submit a request for that evaluation at least 3 full working days before you expect the city inspector to come out. The inspector will examine the entire septic tank and sign the Approval to Cover portion of the permit.

How Does Permitting Work for Installing Septic Tanks in Coatesville?

Obtaining a permit for a septic tank can be a complicated process. First, you will need to fill out the first part of the Application for an On-Lot Sewage Disposal System Permit. This permit must be filled out by the owner of the property.

Next, you or your agent will need to submit 2 copies of the Sewage Application Record form and the Sewage Application Rider. You will also need to pay your permit fee when these items are submitted.

Once you have submitted your paperwork, you will need to prepare the observation test pit excavations and perform percolation tests. A representative of the Chester County Health Department must then conduct an inspection of soil conditions, including a complete soil profile description. An agent of the Chester County Health Department must also be present when percolation tests are run since they will need to ensure that the tests are performed per the department’s requirements. Once testing is complete, the test pits and holes must be backfilled and covered within 3 days after receiving notice. 

Finally, once you have conducted those tests, you can submit an application for the design of the septic system, including information about property lines, the locations of all buildings, driveways, structures, and roads or easements on the property, the proposed sewage disposal system, and any wells, springs, or surface water on the intended property and any adjacent properties. This information ensures that you will place your new septic tank in a safe location, where it will not negatively impact the quality of nearby groundwater. Note that you will need to submit four copies of the appropriate Specifications for Proposed Sewage System form.

Once you have submitted your application, you can receive a permit. The permit must remain on the property during construction, and you will need to give it to the Health Department representative during the final inspection.

How Much Does Septic Tank Installation Usually Cost in Coatesville?

Coatesville, Pennsylvania has an average septic tank installation cost between around $4,700 and $6,700. Several factors can come into play when determining the cost of your septic tank installation. 

Tank Size

On a large property, especially one that is intended to house multiple people, you will likely need a larger septic tank than if your septic tank is placed on the land for a much smaller property. If you have more than 4 bedrooms in your home, you may need to install a 1,500-gallon tank on your property. On the other hand, if you have a smaller house, a small family, and relatively little wastewater, you may need only a 1,000-gallon tank. The larger your tank, the more it may cost to install your septic tank. Tank size isn’t just about the tank itself. A larger tank may also mean more installation costs, including more labor.

Tank Material

Several materials may be used to construct a septic tank. In general, concrete is considered to be one of the best choices, as it offers a relatively cost-efficient solution for your septic tank. However, in some cases, you may choose high-density polyethylene or fiberglass for your septic tank, which may increase your overall costs. 

Tank Location

To install your septic tank, you will need to choose a stretch of land that will drain easily, preventing sewage from backing up. Some septic tanks are above ground, while others are below the ground. The location of your septic tank may heavily influence cost, since the more labor it requires to install it, the more you may need to pay for those services.

What Type of Septic Tank Is Best for Residents in Coatesville?

Pennsylvania residents typically choose among 3 types of septic systems, depending on their specific needs.

Gravity Systems

Gravity systems are among the most common types of septic systems in Coatesville. They use gravity to naturally move waste products through the septic system and into the drain field. These systems also tend to require the least maintenance. 

Pressure Distribution Systems

Many newer septic systems include pumps along with the gravity system. It allows you to use the entire drainage field, which may lead to fewer drainage issues over time. 

Mound Systems

If you do not have adequate room for a drain field on your property or the clay soil on your PA property is too dense for proper drainage, a mound system can prove much more effective. A mound system uses a drain field constructed above ground level. It may use a sand filter to help treat and distribute the effluent from the system. 

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

In general, you should have your septic tank inspected by experts like us every 2 to 3 years. You may need to contact us to have it pumped an average of every 3 to 5 years. However, if you’re experiencing any problems with your septic tank, you may need to have it inspected more often. If you notice any signs that your septic tank is leaking or damaged, you may need to bring out professional septic tank repairmen sooner. 

Have You Spotted Changes in Your Lawn?

If you notice changes in the overall quality of your lawn, you may need to call in our experts. Your septic tank may have a leak if you notice the grass growing greener and thicker around the tank or growing faster than usual. Keep in mind that damage can occur at any point along your septic lines, and regardless of where the damage occurs, you need to take care of restoring your tank as quickly as possible.

Are You Having Problems with Water Collecting Around the Drain Field?

Your drain field should not become saturated for long periods. While you may have some trouble with saturation during periods of heavy rain, if your drain field is frequently and heavily saturated, you may need to quickly deal with the problem to prevent wastewater from gathering in the area instead of filtering through as intended. If you notice water collecting, we may need to revise your drain field. 

Have You Had Problems with Sewage Backing Up in Your Drains?

Sewage in your drains can feel like something out of a nightmare. You may find it very difficult to deal with sewage coming up in your shower or your sinks, especially if you do not deal with the problem quickly and the problem starts to get worse. Sewage backup in your drains can cause a health hazard in your home, which may make it very difficult for you to continue to live normally, and you may not be able to use your water until the problem is resolved. Contact Mr. Blue Plumbing as soon as you notice sewage backing up in your drains, since the sooner you deal with it, the less likely it is that it will have a more serious impact on your home and your plumbing.

Have You Noticed a Bad Odor in Your Home or Yard?

A bad odor in your yard or home could be an indication that your septic tank is no longer draining properly. You may, at first, notice the odor near your septic tank, especially if it has a slow leak. On the other hand, if you have sewage backing up and need to pump your septic tank, you may have sewage creeping up into your drains in small enough quantities that you do not see it, but can certainly smell it. If you start to notice a bad odor around your home, either indoors or out, and you aren’t sure where it’s coming from, consider moving up your septic tank inspection with us to ensure that it isn’t a problem.

Are There Any Rebates Available for Septic Tank Services in Coatesville?

While Coatesville does not offer immediate rebates for septic tank services, PENNVEST provides low-cost financing that makes it easier for Pennsylvania residents to improve, repair, or replace onsite sewage units. All homeowners of the area who meet the program criteria can secure that type of financing to help make repairs easier. However, project construction costs incurred before loan approval will not be included in the loan amount, and you cannot begin construction until your loan has been approved. If you need emergency septic tank repairs, you may need to secure the loan faster.