How to Pick a Good Septic Tank Maintenance Company
Issues with your septic system can make your home uninhabitable in a matter of minutes. If your system has a blockage, it can push water and sewage out of your drains and toilets. To keep your system in good working condition, you should hire for a well-reputed septic company that has long years of experience in the installation and maintenance of septic tanks. Picking an inexperienced company or one that depends on convenient shortcuts can be catastrophic and can even decrease the market value of your property.
Seek referrals.
The best way to hire a skilled contractor is to ask for recommendations from people you know – friends, relatives, coworkers, neighbors, etc. You can check rating and review websites for local contractors too. Your local health department may be able to provide you a list of prospects in your area.
Do your homework.
When you have trimmed down your search to a few prospective companies, research each of them online. See if the company has a license and is registered with your state, and whether they have workman’s compensation and liability insurance. Take a look around their website to learn about their experience and to be informed of the types of septic systems they typically work with. You also have to know if they use advanced methods, practices, and equipment. If you have any doubts or questions about your prospective company’s credentials, give them a call and get their license number so you can directly ask your state’s licensing authority about them.
Know what exact services they offer.
If you must have an entire new system installed, inquire as to the aftercare they normally provide. Septic tanks require emptying every three to five years, depending on the size of your household. Also requiring regular inspection and maintenance are the tank and drainage field. Ask the company if the installation price already covers aftercare, and what their charges are for emergency work. See what work guarantees they can offer and how fast they can come when you call for an emergency.
Dig in to know about any hidden charges.
If your septic tank is buried underground, some companies may bill you an additional fee for digging. If there is a considerable distance between your septic tank and the closest spot where the contractor’s truck can be parked, you may also have to pay more for that.
Compare quotes from different contractors.
Get a quote not just from one contractor but from many, and compare them. Don’t choose the cheapest contractor though as you will probably get what you pay for. It’s important to compare because this is the only way to know what you’re really getting from each contractor you’re considering.