How much do septic tanks cost? Septic tank installation costs can head up into the tens of thousands of dollars, but if you're thinking of buying or building a home in a rural area or some other place that's not connected to a public sewer system, you may just have to spend the cash. Installing your own septic tank means the water going down the drain of your bathtub, toilet, and sinks has someplace to go!
In fact, about one-third of Americans have their own septic system. If you're breaking ground on a new home or converting a cabin with no running water, you will have to install one. But how much does a septic tank installation cost?
How much do septic tanks cost?
For a three-bedroom home, you can expect to need a 1,000-gallon tank, which will range in price from $8,000 to $15,000, according to AngiesList.com. For a five-bedroom home, you'll probably need a 1,500-gallon tank, which will cost between $15,000 and $25,000.
The cost of a septic system depends on its size, and its size will hinge on how much water you use. You can estimate both of these by using the number of bedrooms in your house as a rule of thumb.
In addition to the septic tank installation cost, you will also be on the hook for a few other expenses—namely permits, soil tests, and the excavation equipment needed to dig the hole in your yard where the tank will be placed.
A local septic installation expert will have an estimate of those costs, which vary widely by area. As part of that cost, An engineer will come out and perform all the necessary tests and design a system that will work for the home.
Installing a septic system typically takes about three to five days—and ideally should be done after your home has been built but before you've installed a driveway or other landscaping features. Note: A septic tank will displace a decent amount of dirt onto your lawn, which you can use elsewhere.
For more information, contact Morse Engineering and Construction.
