Septic Design For Your New Home Construction Project? What To Know Before Finalizing The Plan

Providing a safe, sanitary means of waste disposal is critical to any new home building project. For homes in urban areas that can be easily connected to existing public sewer systems, the process is usually a simple one. For those who are building in areas that are not served by a public system, the process is much more involved. 

Those who are planning to build a new home that will require a newly designed and installed septic system can use this information to help them more accurately plan and execute this important part of their project. 

What existing regulations must be met? 

The first step in planning and installing any new septic system is to gather detailed information on the existing public health regulations and laws in effect for the area where the home will be built. In most states, this type of project will likely require an initial site inspection, including a percolation test, as well as additional inspections during the project or at the time of completion to ensure that all regulations have been met. 

Inspections are most often performed by licensed septic installers who meet the certifications and requirements of the state, county, or other public entity where the septic installation project is being completed. 

How much waste will the home produce? 

Once the regulations are known, the next question will involve the size of the home being built or the expected occupancy of the home. These numbers are important in helping to determine the correct size for the septic tank and the size and configuration of the drain field. 

In addition to the size of the homeowner's current family, it is important to also consider the average household size for the area to ensure that the septic system design does not hamper the home's resale value. 

For example, if the home is being constructed by a couple with no children, it is important that the septic tank design be sufficient for a larger family to facilitate selling the home at a later date. 

What type of septic system will the site support? 

While the majority of private septic systems utilize one or more tanks with some type of drainfield, some sites will require a different type of system due to terrain, soil conditions, or other factors. To learn more about the most often utilized septic system designs in your area and to get answers to any additional questions you may have, take time to meet with a septic system installation contractor in the area where you are planning to build. 

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