Septic Installation, Repair and Replacement
How old is your septic system, and is it still able to meet your household's needs? If your septic tank is aging, you're planning a home expansion, or you need a MA Title 5 inspection, Earth Movers Excavation provides expert septic system installation services.
Septic Tank Systems & Leach Fields
Earth Movers designs and installs complete residential septic systems, including septic tanks and leach fields.
Most systems follow a simple flow, wastewater leaves the home and enters the septic tank, then effluent moves to the distribution box (D-box), which evenly sends it out to the leach (drain) field. The most common leach field is pipe set in a bed of stone, but the final design depends on your site conditions and the approved septic plan.
Septic Excavation & Grading
Earth Movers handles all excavation needs for septic system installation, including digging test pits for perc evaluations, excavating leach fields, setting septic tanks and distribution boxes, and trenching for all piping. Proper grading ensures positive drainage away from the home and system components to prevent water pooling or groundwater intrusion.
Common services include:
- Site excavation and leach field preparation
- Precise grading for optimal drainage
- Retaining walls and erosion control structures
- Rock removal and soil management
- Backfill, topsoil replacement, and hydroseeding for finished restoration
Wondering what a new septic system costs, and how long it takes?
Septic installation pricing can vary because site conditions can change street by street and even lot by lot. To confirm soil conditions and groundwater indicators, a perc test and test pits may be completed, and an engineer uses those results to design the right system for your property.
In Massachusetts, the capacity of your septic tank is determined by the approved design flow, with Title 5 mandating a minimum of 1,500 gallons for new residential systems (larger tanks are required as the design flow increases). Older systems may feature smaller tanks based on the installation date and the regulations that were in effect at that time.
Earth Movers guides you through the full septic process, including permits, engineering and design, excavation, installation, inspections, and final grading. We serve homeowners in Wilbraham, Hampden, Ludlow, Palmer, Monson, East Longmeadow, and Longmeadow.
Common Questions Regarding Septic Systems
How much does septic installation or replacement usually cost?
For most homes, a new conventional septic system typically falls in a broad range of about $15,000–$35,000 depending on design and site conditions. Final cost depends on factors like soil conditions, system type, tank size, excavation difficulty, and permitting, so a site visit and written estimate from a licensed installer is the best way to get accurate pricing for your property.Do I need a permit or inspection for septic work?
Regulations vary by town and state, but new installations, major repairs, and some replacements usually require permits and inspections, which the contractor can often help coordinate. In Massachusetts, most septic work is regulated and often does require permits and inspections, especially for anything beyond basic pumping. New installations, major repairs, and system replacements almost always need approval and inspection through the local Board of Health under Title 5 regulations, and your septic contractor can usually help coordinate this process with the town. Because requirements can differ by municipality, homeowners should always check with their local Board of Health or building department before starting septic work to ensure they are following current local and state rules.Can you help with drainage or wet yard problems?
Earth Movers can diagnose grading and drainage issues and install effective solutions such as swales, French drains, and dry wells to help manage excess water. These systems protect your home’s foundation, prevent standing water, and keep your yard dry and functional year-round.How can I get an estimate for a new septic system or excavation project?
We offer free site visits to review your property, discuss your needs, and then provide a written estimate outlining scope, materials, and timeline.Can I build, pave, or plant trees over my septic tank or leach field?
Permanent structures, driveways, patios, and heavy vehicles should never be placed over the tank or drain field because weight and compaction can crush pipes, crack the tank, and prevent wastewater from soaking into the soil properly. Deep‑rooted trees, large shrubs, and vegetable gardens are also discouraged over the drain field; instead, use grass or shallow‑rooted ornamental plants that won’t invade pipes or risk contamination of edible crops.
Perc Tests &
Title V Inspections
We offer percolation tests for new construction and Title V inspections for home sales. Our experienced team ensures residential and commercial septic systems meet Massachusetts DEP standards and local Board of Health requirements.
Lawn Restoration After Septic Repairs
A septic project doesn’t have to leave your yard a mess or create an unsightly hump. After installation, Earth Movers restores disturbed areas with proper grading, topsoil, and hydroseeding to control erosion and help new grass take root quickly. We work hard to minimize yard disruption while ensuring your new system functions perfectly behind the scenes.
Contact Us
For timelines, pricing, and a detailed estimate, call (413) 426-7195 or complete the form to get started.
If you are due for maintenance, you can also
schedule a septic cleaning. Each cleaning includes a thorough system check.
Septic Installation
