Frequently Asked Questions

Site Assessment

How does a site assessment work and how long does it take?

We start with a quick phone intake, then an on‑site visit (60–90 minutes) to review usage, setbacks, and access. We dig test pits/soil checks, verify well and property lines, and size the system per Ontario Building Code (Part 8). You receive a stamped design and estimate in 3–5 business days (typical).

What should I have ready before the design visit?

Recent lot plan/survey if available, well and existing tank/bed locations, daily water‑use estimates (bedrooms/fixtures), and any planned additions. Ensure small‑excavator access for test pits.

How do you size systems for cottages vs. full‑time homes?

We size by bedrooms/fixtures and realistic occupancy, including peak weekend use common for cottages in South Eastern Ontario.

What soil tests do you perform?

Test pits to confirm texture/structure, estimate percolation, groundwater indications, and bearing for tank placement.

Can you design for future additions?

Yes. We plan capacity and bed area for approved additions so your system remains compliant when you expand.

Do you mark tank and bed locations for future reference?

Yes. We provide as‑builts and can set reference stakes or GPS coordinates for easy locating later.

Permits & Compliance

Do you handle septic permits with my township in South Eastern Ontario?

Yes. We prepare drawings/forms and submit to your municipality under OBC Part 8. We attend inspections and manage revisions.

How long do septic permits usually take?

Typical review is 5–10 business days once the application is complete. Complex lots or conservation authority reviews can add time.

Do I need a survey for a septic permit?

A survey helps confirm lot lines and setbacks. If you don’t have one, we can often proceed with measured sketches and locator stakes.

What codes and standards do you follow?

Ontario Building Code (Part 8), manufacturer specs, township by‑laws, and safety regulations (ESA for electrical, if applicable).

Will you coordinate with conservation authorities or well records?

Yes. We verify wells, watercourses, and regulated areas and include those clearances in our design and permit package.

Are dye tests or camera inspections acceptable for permits?

They support diagnostics but don’t replace the design package and on‑site evaluation required for permits.

Materials & Technology

What tank materials do you install—concrete or poly?

Both. Concrete offers durability and ballast; poly is lighter for tight access. We recommend based on soil, groundwater, and access.

Do you install risers and effluent filters on every system?

Yes. Risers to grade for easy access and a code‑approved effluent filter to protect the bed.

What pipe and distribution materials do you use?

CSA‑approved PVC for building and distribution lines, clean stone or chamber products per design, and geotextile fabric as required.

Do you use bed chambers instead of stone and pipe?

Where suitable, chambers can reduce aggregate needs and speed install. We size them per manufacturer approvals and OBC.

What pumps and controls are used for raised beds or ATUs?

High‑quality effluent pumps with check/union valves, float controls, and weather‑protected alarms. Electrical by a licensed electrician.

How do you prevent floatation in high‑water‑table areas?

Proper ballast/anchors, tank weighting, and controlled backfill. We add anti‑floatation measures based on soil and groundwater data.

Can you add inspection ports to existing beds?

Yes, where practical we add ports to monitor distribution and aid future diagnostics without major excavation.

Installation & Connections

What’s the typical septic system installation timeline and what’s included?

After permit approval and utility locates (Ontario One Call 3–5 business days typical), conventional systems install in 3–5 workdays; advanced treatment systems 5–7 days. Scope includes excavation, tank/bed placement, pipe and electrical (if applicable), effluent filter, backfill/rough grade, and inspection.

How do you verify the system works before backfilling?

We level and test distribution, check elevations with laser, confirm flows, and complete inspections before final backfill.

Do you handle electrical for pump systems?

A licensed electrician handles ESA‑inspected wiring. We coordinate trenching, conduits, and control panel placement.

What grading is included after installation?

Rough grade and basic drainage shaping are included. Final topsoil/seed or sod can be added by us or completed by the homeowner.

Will heavy equipment damage my driveway?

We plan routes, use mats, and communicate risks. If required, we include surface protection or alternate staging in your quote.

Restoration & Upgrading

Can you restore an underperforming system or does it need full replacement?

Many systems benefit from upgrades such as baffle/riser replacements, adding an effluent filter, distribution adjustments, or replacing a failed header. Where code and site conditions allow, targeted restoration can be completed in 1–2 days.

Can you convert a single‑compartment tank to include a filter?

Yes. We retrofit outlet filters and risers where tank geometry allows, improving bed protection.

Do you rehabilitate distribution boxes and headers?

Yes. Re‑levelling or replacement often restores even flow and extends bed life when soils are still functional.

What upgrades reduce maintenance for rural rentals or B&Bs?

Risers, filters, alarmed pumps, and clear user guides reduce misuse and help protect the system under variable loads.

Can you add a dosing pump to an existing gravity system?

In some cases, yes. Dosed distribution can improve even loading; design review and permits are required.

Septic Tank Replacement

When is a septic tank replacement required and how long does it take?

Replacement is needed for cracked/leaking tanks, recurring backups, or tanks that no longer meet code or capacity needs. Once permits are in hand, onsite work is typically 1–2 days.

Do you replace steel or brick tanks?

Yes. We safely remove and replace obsolete tanks with modern concrete or poly units that meet today’s code.

What size tank will I need?

Sized by bedrooms/fixtures and peak flow. Most South Eastern Ontario homes use 3,600–4,500 L tanks; final sizing is set in design.

Can you reuse my existing bed with a new tank?

If the bed is functional and meets code, yes. We replace the tank and reconnect with new pipe and filters.

How do you dispose of the old tank?

We coordinate pumping by a licensed hauler, remove or crush/fill per code, and haul debris to an approved facility with disposal receipts.

Septic Tank Abandonment

What’s the proper septic tank abandonment process if I’m connecting to municipal sewer?

We locate and expose the tank, coordinate pumping, disconnect and cap building sewer lines, crush in place and fill with clean material (or remove where required), then backfill and grade. We file completion details as required by the township. Most abandonments are completed in 1 day once locates and approvals are ready.

Do I need to remove the tank or can it be filled in place?

Many townships allow crushing and filling with clean material. Some require removal—We follow local rules.

Will you cap my building sewer when connecting to municipal services?

Yes. We cap and mark the line, abandon the tank properly, and document the work for your records and municipality.

Can you restore landscaping after abandonment?

Yes. We backfill, compact, and rough grade. Optional topsoil/seed, sod, or hardscape repair can be added.

Real Estate Sewage System Inspections

What’s included in a real estate septic inspection and when do I get the report?

Inspection covers tank structure (lids/baffles/risers), surface signs at the bed, flow/dye checks, filter condition, setback review, and visible plumbing. Camera inspection is available where access allows. You’ll receive a photo‑rich PDF same day or within 24 hours with recommendations and budget ranges.

How fast can you schedule an inspection during a conditional offer?

Typically within 24–72 hours in South Eastern Ontario. Rush slots available during peak season.

Do you provide repair estimates with the inspection report?

Yes. We include practical recommendations with budget ranges so buyers and sellers can negotiate fairly.

Can you inspect in winter or with snow cover?

Yes, with access prep. Some visual indicators are limited; we note limitations transparently in the report.

Will you coordinate tank pumping if required by the offer?

Yes. We schedule a licensed hauler and document findings; pumping fees are separate.

Costs, Quotes & Financing

Do you provide fixed‑price quotes or estimates?

We provide detailed written quotes after design. Unseen obstacles (rock, buried debris) are transparently handled via change orders.

What drives septic system cost the most?

Soil type, system type (conventional vs. advanced), access, bed size, and restoration scope influence price more than materials alone.

Can I get a ballpark cost before a site visit?

We can share typical ranges by system type, but a site assessment is required for an accurate quote and to meet code.

Do you offer financing or staged payments?

Yes. Standard terms: deposit at booking, progress draw after inspection, and balance on completion. Financing options available on request.

Are permits and inspections included in the quote?

Yes, our quotes call out permit fees, engineering/design, ESA (if needed), municipal inspections, and restoration items selected.

Do you charge for real estate inspection reports?

Yes, a flat fee based on location and access. Add‑ons like camera work are optional and priced upfront.

Site Access & Property

What access do you need for equipment?

A clear path for mini‑excavator/loader and delivery truck. We confirm turning radius, overhead lines, trees, and soft areas in advance.

Will you call utility locates?

Yes. We submit Ontario One Call for underground locates before digging. Private lines (propane, irrigation) should be flagged by owners.

Can you work on tight urban lots or waterfront properties?

Yes. We specialize in constrained sites, using compact equipment and staging to protect features and meet setbacks.

Do you protect wells and watercourses during work?

Yes. We fence sensitive zones, maintain setbacks, and manage runoff/erosion controls to protect wells, ditches, and streams.

How do you handle rock or bedrock?

We plan for rock probing and can saw, hammer, or re‑design the bed profile to suit. Rock contingencies are outlined in your quote.

Who removes old landscaping features?

We can remove/replace decks, asphalt, or fences as a separate line item, or you can handle them before we arrive.

Aftercare & Maintenance (We Do Not Pump)

Do you provide maintenance even if you don’t pump?

Yes. We offer filter cleaning, riser/baffle checks, alarm testing, and performance assessments. We coordinate pumping with a licensed hauler when needed.

How often should my tank be pumped in South Eastern Ontario?

Typical homes pump every 3–5 years depending on usage. We’ll advise based on occupancy and tank size (pumping handled by partners).

Do you remind clients about filter cleaning?

Yes. We can set up annual reminders and show you how to clean or book a service visit.

Can you retrofit risers on older tanks for easy access?

Yes. Adding risers to grade saves future excavation time and cost and helps keep lids safe and sealed.

What household habits protect my septic bed?

Conserve water, space out laundry, avoid grease/chemicals, keep vehicles off the bed, and route roof/softener discharge away.

Do you test flows or loading before recommending upgrades?

Yes. We assess usage patterns, plumbing fixtures, and in some cases perform flow tests to size upgrades correctly.

Troubleshooting & Emergencies

My toilets are backing up—who do I call first?

Call us. We’ll triage over the phone, check for blockages, coordinate emergency pumping if required, and schedule diagnostics.

What are signs my leaching bed is failing?

Persistent wet spots/odours over the bed, frequent backups, and effluent surfacing. We inspect, test, and recommend repair or replacement.

Can tree roots damage septic lines?

Yes. We locate root intrusions, replace compromised pipe, and suggest root‑resistant plantings and setbacks going forward.

Do you repair broken baffles or collapsed lids?

Yes. We replace inlet/outlet baffles, install new lids/risers, and restore grading to keep surface water out of the tank.

What if my alarm is going off on a pump system?

Reduce water use and call us. We’ll diagnose floats, pumps, breakers, or clogs and get you running quickly.

Can you camera‑scope my lines?

Where access allows, yes. Camera inspection helps locate breaks, sags, and root intrusions for targeted repairs.

Seasonality & Weather

Do you install septic systems in winter in South Eastern Ontario?

Yes. Winter installs are possible with frost management and access prep. Timelines may extend slightly for thawing and safety.

Does heavy rain delay septic work?

Significant rain or saturated soils can pause excavation to protect your property and ensure compaction/grades remain true.

What temperatures affect concrete tanks and backfill?

We follow cold‑weather handling guidelines and use appropriate bedding/backfill to maintain tank integrity in freeze/thaw cycles.

Can you protect my driveway and lawn during wet conditions?

We use ground protection mats and planned access routes. Some turf disturbance is unavoidable but we minimize it.

When is the best season to schedule an installation?

Spring to fall offers predictable timelines. Book early for peak season (May–October) in South Eastern Ontario.

Warranties, Scheduling & Communication

What warranties do you offer?

Workmanship warranty is typically 1–2 years; manufacturer warranties apply to tanks/pumps. Terms are listed in your quote.

How far out are you booking installs?

Peak season books 2–4 weeks out. We keep emergency repair slots available.

How do you keep me updated during the job?

You’ll receive a clear schedule, daily progress texts/photos, and inspection outcomes as they happen.

Are you insured and WSIB‑compliant?

Yes. Full liability coverage and WSIB compliance. Certificates available on request.

Do you work with builders and renovation contractors?

Yes. We coordinate timelines, rough‑ins, and inspections to keep projects moving on schedule.

Environmental & Best Practices

How do you protect neighbouring wells during installs?

Setback compliance, erosion control, and clean work practices keep wells safe. We keep lids watertight and grade away from openings.

Do you manage excavated soils and waste responsibly?

Yes. Spoils are reused onsite where suitable or hauled to approved facilities. We recycle concrete/aggregate where possible.

Can you reroute surface water away from the bed?

Yes. Swales, downspout extensions, and re‑grading keep runoff off the bed to prevent premature saturation.

Are additives recommended for septic systems?

We don’t recommend routine additives. Good habits and periodic pumping (via licensed hauler) are best for system health.

Accessibility & Client Experience

Can you work while I’m at work or away?

Yes. We can operate independently with pre‑approved access arrangements and daily updates.

Do you provide bilingual service?

Service is available in English; French‑language support can be arranged with notice.

How do I get started with Ottawa Septic Tank Pros?

Call or submit our online contact form at www.septictanksottawa.com. We'll book a quick discovery call and schedule your site assessment.