Septic Services in Florida
Routine pumping keeps most septic systems working. These are the services Florida septic companies offer, from a pump-out to drain field repair and new systems.
- Septic Tank Pumping Routine pump-out of the sludge and scum that build up in a septic tank, with a check of the baffles and lids.
- Septic Repair Diagnosing and fixing problems with tanks, baffles, lids, pipes and pumps.
- Septic Installation New and replacement septic systems, including the permit and system design.
- Septic Inspection Real-estate and condition inspections of the tank and drain field.
- Drain Field Repair Diagnosing, repairing and replacing drain fields (leach fields), including raised mound systems.
- Grease Trap Pumping Pumping and cleaning of commercial grease traps and interceptors.
- Aerobic System Service Service contracts, maintenance and repair for aerobic treatment units (ATUs).
Where to start
The EPA says household septic tanks are typically pumped every 3 to 5 years and inspected at least every 3 years. What you need depends on what you are seeing:
- No problems, but years since the last pump-out: routine septic tank pumping, typically $290–$600.
- Buying or selling a home: a septic inspection, about $100–$650. Florida law bars any government from requiring one when a home is sold (s. 381.0065(4)(x)); a buyer, a lender or the sales contract can still call for one.
- Backups, alarms, a failed pump or baffle: a septic repair, often $600–$3,000; repairs usually need a permit.
- Soggy ground or odors over the drain field: drain field repair, about $1,000–$5,000, or replacement for more.
- An aerobic unit (ATU): a service contract under aerobic system service, about $175–$600 a year.
Florida's septic rule does not count routine pumping as a repair (Rule 62-6.002), so it does not need a repair permit; Florida law requires one for repairs, modifications and new systems. Local rules can differ, so ask your county permit office. The EPA figures above come from How to Care for Your Septic System. See full price ranges in the Florida septic cost guide.