A septic system collects, treats, and disposes of wastewater for homes that aren’t connected to a public sewer line. Below are the most common designs used across the United States.
The most common setup for rural homes, these systems utilize natural bacteria that break down waste without oxygen, then send the liquid for filtering.
These systems are usually the most affordable to install, but they only work well if the property has deep, well-draining soil and groundwater that sits several feet below the surface.
These systems mix air into the wastewater, enabling bacteria to break it down more efficiently. They’re often installed where soil doesn’t drain well.
Because they require pumps and electrical components, ATUs are more expensive to install and maintain. They work for properties with shallow or clay-heavy soil, where a conventional system can’t drain.
When the soil is too shallow or bedrock sits close to the surface, builders raise the system instead of digging down. They form a mound of sand and gravel above ground, creating space for wastewater to filter safely.
Because mound systems require more material and necessitate precise design, they are more expensive to install. However, they allow septic use on land that would otherwise be unsuitable for it.
Some older homes still rely on seepage pits or cesspools. These early versions of septic systems discharge wastewater directly into the ground with minimal treatment.
If your property has one, it may be time to consider a modern replacement. Upgrading protects local groundwater and can improve the efficiency of your system in handling waste.
Not every homeowner has savings set aside for a major septic project. That’s why financing for septic systems exists. Here’s how financing a septic system works:
Homeowners often assume financing only applies to full replacements, but septic tank loans can support a range of projects.
Building a home on a property without a sewer connection means planning for a septic system from the start. Soil tests, permits, and installation all come before move-in.
Tanks eventually fail — concrete cracks, steel rusts, and fiberglass can shift out of place after years underground. You’ll often notice a sour smell near the yard or in slow-draining areas of your home.
A replacement stops the system from leaking and keeps waste where it belongs, protecting both your property and your plumbing.
When wastewater pools on the surface, the drain field has likely stopped absorbing properly. Saturated soil or clogged lines block the system from filtering waste into the ground.
A technician can clear or rebuild the field to restore flow and stop sewage from surfacing.
If your system relies on pumps or alarms, even minor mechanical failures can have a ripple effect throughout the rest of it. A pump that won’t shut off or a control panel that shorts out can lead to costly backups.
Upgrading those components keeps the system balanced and reduces the need for emergency calls later.
After septic work, it’s common for the yard to look uneven or for water to pool. Crews reshape the soil so water runs off naturally again, press it firm underfoot, and seed new grass that slowly reclaims the area.
Within a season, the signs of digging fade, and the yard begins to feel like part of the home again.
Some projects come with higher upfront costs, which is why many homeowners look for financial assistance for septic systems. The ranges below offer a practical starting point.
Costs can vary widely based on soil tests, local rules, layout, and other factors. Many projects land in the five-figure range and can exceed $16,000 in some markets. We recommend getting a site-specific estimate from your contractor.
Each material handles soil conditions, moisture, and pressure differently, so the best choice depends on your specific yard conditions.
Concrete tanks cost between $700 and $2,000. They’re sturdy and common, but they can crack if the ground settles unevenly or freezes and thaws often.
Fiberglass tanks typically cost between $1,200 and $2,000. Lightweight yet strong, they flex slightly with the ground and resist corrosion, making them ideal for clay-heavy or uneven soil.
Plastic tanks start around $500. They’re budget-friendly but can warp or collapse if buried in unstable ground or driven over.
A standard anaerobic system that utilizes natural bacteria and a drain field typically costs between $3,000 and $8,000.
Aerobic systems, which add oxygen to treat wastewater more thoroughly, range from $10,000 to $20,000.
Mound systems, an alternative setup built above ground for shallow or rocky soil, typically cost between $10,000 and $20,000 or more.
A 1,000-gallon tank typically requires a 600-square-foot area, which costs around $10,000. Larger 1,500-gallon systems can cost between $12,000 and $14,000.
Combined labor, design, testing, and surveying typically add between $2,000 and $6,000 in many projects, although complex sites may incur higher costs.
Counties typically require septic permits for plan reviews and inspections, which usually cost between $300 and $1,800. Homeowners normally pay these fees directly, though some contractors include them in their estimates.
Septic problems can develop gradually or suddenly, but either way, they should not be ignored. Here are a few of the most common issues homeowners face:
Before starting any major work, take a moment to understand what your system really needs and what kind of help will make the process easier.
A clogged pipe can often be repaired. If you’re dealing with a cracked tank, standing water near the drain field, or frequent backups, a full replacement is typically the more prudent choice.
The size and material of your tank matter more than most people think. A small household may do fine with a basic setup, but homes with more occupants or challenging soil conditions often require larger, sturdier systems.
What starts as a simple repair can reveal deeper damage once the ground is open. Expanding the project might save you money and extra digging in the future.
When it comes to septic work, most homeowners want two things — someone they can trust and a clear plan. Renovate delivers both, with transparent communication every step of the way.
Renovate partners with licensed septic experts. They understand the ground they’re working with and know how to adapt to your property’s specific needs.
Homeowners from a wide range of credit backgrounds can access financing through Renovate’s extensive lender network. Approval varies by lender.
Submit one quick request form for septic system financing from trusted local contractors. It’s free.
After you submit your request form, you will see your answer within a few minutes. We don’t want to waste one minute of your time.
A conventional anaerobic system is usually the most affordable option. It uses natural bacteria and a simple drain field to filter wastewater.
Yes, you can, but lenders may require an inspection and proof that the septic system meets local standards.
Financing enables you to make essential upgrades immediately, rather than postponing them. You can replace a worn pump or add a better filter now and pay over time.
Aerobic treatment units and advanced filtration systems treat wastewater more thoroughly, reducing the impact on soil and groundwater. Mound systems can also protect sensitive areas where drainage is poor.
Most septic systems go in within a few days once permits and plans are approved. Weather, soil conditions, or added features like pumps can stretch that timeline.
In most cases, yes. Many financing options let you roll permit and inspection costs into your total project amount, so you don’t have to pay those fees upfront. Terms and conditions depend on the lender.
If you’re searching on your own, check that the contractor is licensed, insured, and experienced with local code requirements. If you want to skip the research, Renovate can connect you with fully vetted septic professionals who meet those standards.
Late spring through early autumn is often the best time. Soils are thawed, less likely to be saturated or frozen, and there are more contractors on call.
