- What could be wrong with my septic system?
- How much is this going to cost?
- If repairs are necessary, is financing available?
- How do I get a loan?
- What will the loan pay for?
- Can I take out a loan on my own?
- Can I perform the necessary repairs myself?
- What permits or fees may be associated with the repair?
- When would I be required to hook up to sewer rather than just repair my septic system?
- What does it cost to hook up to sewer?
- Is financing available for sewer hook up?
- When will sewer be available?
1. What could be wrong with my septic system?
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A health department specialist tests Salmon Creek water |
The great majority of systems are working jsut fine. Some systems might have minor problems that can be
2. How much is this going to cost?
If your sustem is creating a situation detrimental to public health, repairs will be required. Depending on the type of correction that is needed, costs could vary from a few dollars to several thousand. Some average costs associated with septic repair:
| Pumping of septic tank | $350 |
| Installation of standard septic system | $4,000 or more |
| Installation of mound system or sand filter | $8,000 or more |
3. If repairs are necessary, is financing available?
Yes. If you are not financially capable of paying for necessary repairs, the state Department of Ecology is offering a Centennial Clean Water Grant through the Clark County Health Department to provide low-interest, five-year loans for eligible residents who live within 100 feet of Salmon Creek and its tributaries.
4. How do I get a loan?
Applicants are required to obtain multiple bids from licensed septic system designers and installers. The bids and loan application documents need to be submitted to the Clark County Health Department. The health department can provide you with a list of licensed designers and installers.
5. What will the loan pay for?
The loan will cover installation and construction costs for a septic system.
6. Can I take out a loan on my own?
Yes. With current interest rates at historic lows, many people may choose to take out repair loans on their own..
7. Can I perform the necessary repairs myself?
A licensed designer and installer must perform the work. Money will be dispensed after completion and approval of work by the health department.
8. What permits or fees may be associated with the repair?
A permit for repair or replacement of a septic system is $445 and can be obtained from the Clark County Health Department.
9. When would I be required to hook up to sewer rather than just repair my septic system?
If your septic system is failing and if sewer is available within 200 feet, you must.hook up to the sewer. The Department of Ecology/Clark County Health Department loan cannot be used for the hook up fee. However, Hazel Dell Sewer District and the city of Battle Ground are offering eligible homeowners a long-term repayment plan if it is needed.
10. What does it cost to hook up to sewer?
These are average costs associated with sewer hook up:
| Line from house to sewer | $120-$200 per foot |
| Hook up to Hazel Dell Sewer | $5,844 |
| Hook up to city of Battle Ground sewer | $6,000 |
11. Is financing available for sewer hook up?
The same Centennial Clean Water Grant provides loans that cover the installation and construction costs for a sewer access line. The loan does not pay the sewer connection fee. The low-interest five-year loans are available to eligible residents who live within 100 feet of Salmon Creek and its tributaries.
12. When will sewer be available?
Hazel Dell Sewer District and the city of Battle Ground are the best sources of information for when sewer will be available in specific locations.
