How to Hire a Septic Contractor

Make sure you have a septic design approved by the local board of health. The design will specify the exact location, shape, size and materials of the septic.

Make sure the site of the septic is accessible. The contractor will need to get excavation equipment and large trucks into the site.

Contact several septic contractors. Ask friends and relatives or check the yellow pages for contractor leads. Note that most excavation contractors install septic systems, but you'll want someone with considerable experience.

Have the contractors inspect the site.

Give each contractor a complete copy of the design.

Have the contractors give you price quotes for the entire project (labor, equipment and material).

Ask each contractor for references, including one or more older ones (to check up on any problems with operation). Check these references. Was the job done in a timely and professional manner? Did the contractor cause as little damage to the surrounding site as possible? Has the system operated properly without any problems?

Make sure the contractors are properly insured.

Select a contractor based on price, references and your impressions.

Execute a contract for the work, specifying cost, payment schedule, start date and estimated completion date. Make sure the contract provides a guarantee of the work.