New Septic Systems in Kannapolis

Putting in a new septic system is a big project, but it doesn't have to be a confusing one. A local installer puts in complete systems, tank and drain field, for homes around Kannapolis. This page explains each step, and a good installer handles the permit and gives you a written price before any digging starts.

When you need a new septic system

You're building a new home. If your lot is outside the reach of city sewer, which is common on the edges of Kannapolis and in the surrounding county areas, you'll need a septic system before the house can be finished.

Your current system is past saving. An old tank with collapsed walls plus a failed drain field often makes a full replacement more sensible than patching each part.

You're adding on. Adding bedrooms can mean your existing system is too small for the home. The county may require a larger system.

If only the drain field has failed and the tank is sound, drain field replacement may be all you need.

Permits: Cabarrus or Rowan County

Kannapolis sits in both Cabarrus County and Rowan County. A new septic system requires a permit from the environmental health department in your county. The county typically evaluates the soil on your lot and decides where the system can go and what type and size it should be.

Around Kannapolis, red clay is common, and it drains slowly. That affects the design. Some lots can use a conventional system. Others may need a different design to work with the soil. The county's evaluation drives that, not guesswork.

The installer pulls the permit and works with the county through the process.

How a new septic installation works

1. Call and free site visit. The installer looks at the lot, talk about the house size and number of bedrooms and explain the process.
2. County soil evaluation and permit. The county reviews the site and issues a permit that spells out the system.
3. Written quote. You get a written price based on the approved design.
4. Installation. The crew sets the tank, digs the trenches, lays the lines and connects everything. Most installs take a few days once work begins, weather permitting.
5. County inspection. The county may inspect before the system is covered.
6. Backfill and walk-through. The crew grades the area and shows you where everything is and how to care for it.

Timing depends a lot on the county's schedule and the weather. Wet red clay can push back digging, so build some cushion into your plans.

What a new septic system costs

A new conventional septic system is a major investment for any Kannapolis homeowner, and no two lots price out the same. The final price depends on the system type the county requires, tank size, the size of the drain field, soil conditions, site access and whether an old system has to be removed or abandoned. Our septic prices page breaks down what moves the cost.

Questions to ask before a new install

• What system type did the county approve, and why?
• What size tank and field are planned, and how many bedrooms does that cover?
• Who handles the permit and county inspections?
• What happens to the old tank, if there is one?
• How will the yard look when you're finished?
• What maintenance does this system need?

What a good installer won't do

A good installer won't push a full new system when a repair will do. If your tank is sound and the issue is a broken part, septic repairs may be the answer. They won't start digging before the permit is in hand. And they won't leave you guessing about the price. You'll have it in writing first.

Caring for a new system

A new system starts clean. Keep it that way:

• Plan on septic pumping every three to five years.
• Keep vehicles, sheds and trees off the drain field.
• Point downspouts away from the tank and field.
• Keep wipes, grease and harsh chemicals out of the drains.
• Note where the tank and lids are so they're easy to find later.