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Things You Need to Know About Unique Septic System Situations

  • How do I upgrade the septic system if I want to add a bedroom to my house?

    If you want to add a bedroom, your septic system needs to be upgraded. To upgrade a system, you will need to do the following:

    1. Hire a licensed engineer and a licensed septic installer.
    2. The engineer and installer test the soil to determine the septic capacity of the property.
    3. An upgraded septic system is designed by the engineer.
    4. The septic plan is submitted to the Board of Health for approval.
    5. The plan is either modified or approved.
    6. The licensed septic installer installs the new septic as designed.

    As licensed septic installers, Precision Excavating Inc. can walk you through the process of upgrading your septic system.

  • Can I enlarge my septic tank and then add a bedroom onto my house?

    No. Your fields handle all the water from your home. The drainfields need to be enlarged. Refer to the process in the answer above.

  • Do we need an engineer to repair our septic system?

    Licensed installers, such as Precision Excavating Inc., are permitted to repair septic systems that are in failure utilizing an “in-kind” replacement without the need for an engineer. “In-kind” means that the system is installed in the same location and with the same type of system. If the system needs to be significantly altered or relocated, an engineer is required in Westchester County. Putnam County sometimes requires an engineer. In Westchester County, original septic plans that contain the words “100% Expansion Area” also require the use of an engineer.

  • What is a pump system, and when is it required?

    A pump system includes a series of two septic tanks. The second tank has a pump that disperses the wastewater at intervals. Such a system is required when: 1) the wastewater needs to rise to a higher elevation than the tank, or 2) to increase the flow to the fields in larger systems.

  • What does “machine grade” mean?

    A machine grade is a rough grade that is done with the machine. The surface will look level, but the rocks and some ruts will not have been raked out. Before planting a lawn (which is vital for the proper functionality of the septic system), the ground requires hand raking and removal of the rocks. This can be done by the homeowner, a landscaper, or Precision Excavating Inc. can give you a price for a new lawn installation.