Installing a new septic system doesn't have to be complicated. At South Jersey Engineers, we guide you through every step of the process, from initial consultation to final installation. Our team handles the technical details and regulatory requirements so you can focus on what matters: getting your system installed correctly and on time.
Step-by-Step: How We Design Your Septic System
Step 1: Initial Consultation (Day 1)
Contact us by phone or through our website contact form. We'll ask about your property location, number of bedrooms, any site challenges you're aware of, and whether you currently have a septic system. Within 1-2 business days, one of our septic design experts will call to discuss your specific needs, answer your questions, and explain your system options based on your property characteristics.
Step 2: Property Survey Submission (Week 1)
Provide us with a current property survey. If you don't have one or yours is outdated, we'll connect you with a qualified surveyor.
Please note: Add 1-2 weeks to your project timeline if you need a new survey. Cumberland, Gloucester, Salem, and Vineland counties require a physical, sealed survey copy for submission.
Step 3: Soil Testing (Week 1-2)
Our team visits your property to conduct soil percolation tests. These tests determine how well your soil drains water and help us design the most effective system for your property conditions.
What you need: Clear access to the proposed septic system area. You don't need to be home during testing.
Timeline: Testing takes about an hour onsite. Results are typically processed within 3-5 business days.
Step 4: Review and Approve Soil Test Results (Week 2)
We'll share the soil test results with you and explain what they mean for your system design. After deciding on a septic design, one of our engineers will move forward with the design phase.
Step 5: Septic System Design (Week 2-3)
One of our licensed engineers creates a custom septic system design that meets your property's needs and complies with all county health department and local regulations.
Timeline: 5-7 business days.
Step 6: Design Review and Your Approval (Week 3-4)
Before submitting anything to the county, we present the design to you for review and approval. We'll walk you through the plans, answer any questions, and work with you to accommodate your preferences while ensuring full compliance with county and state regulations.
Timeline: 1-3 days for your review and approval.
Step 7: Permit Application Submission (Week 4)
Once you approve the design, we submit your permit application to the appropriate county health department. We handle all paperwork, correspondence, and follow-up with the county on your behalf.
Step 8: County Review and Permit Approval (Week 4-7)
The county health department reviews your application and design plans. Review times vary by county, but most approvals are issued within 2-3 weeks. We monitor your application status and communicate any updates or requests from the county.
Step 9: Installation Permit Issued (Week 6-8)
Once approved by the county, you will receive a physical, sealed copy in the mail. Your approved septic design becomes your official installation permit. Your work with us is now complete. You are ready to hire an installer and begin construction!
What Makes Our Process Different?
Ready to Get Started?
Contact South Jersey Engineers today to begin your septic system design project. Our experienced team is here to answer your questions and guide you through every step of the process.
Call us at 856-651-9050 or fill out our contact form for a free quote today.
Serving South Jersey homeowners in Atlantic, Burlington, Camden, Cape May, Cumberland, Gloucester, Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth, Ocean, Salem, and Vineland counties.
Step-by-Step: How We Design Your Septic System
Step 1: Initial Consultation (Day 1)
Contact us by phone or through our website contact form. We'll ask about your property location, number of bedrooms, any site challenges you're aware of, and whether you currently have a septic system. Within 1-2 business days, one of our septic design experts will call to discuss your specific needs, answer your questions, and explain your system options based on your property characteristics.
Step 2: Property Survey Submission (Week 1)
Provide us with a current property survey. If you don't have one or yours is outdated, we'll connect you with a qualified surveyor.
Please note: Add 1-2 weeks to your project timeline if you need a new survey. Cumberland, Gloucester, Salem, and Vineland counties require a physical, sealed survey copy for submission.
Step 3: Soil Testing (Week 1-2)
Our team visits your property to conduct soil percolation tests. These tests determine how well your soil drains water and help us design the most effective system for your property conditions.
What you need: Clear access to the proposed septic system area. You don't need to be home during testing.
Timeline: Testing takes about an hour onsite. Results are typically processed within 3-5 business days.
Step 4: Review and Approve Soil Test Results (Week 2)
We'll share the soil test results with you and explain what they mean for your system design. After deciding on a septic design, one of our engineers will move forward with the design phase.
Step 5: Septic System Design (Week 2-3)
One of our licensed engineers creates a custom septic system design that meets your property's needs and complies with all county health department and local regulations.
Timeline: 5-7 business days.
Step 6: Design Review and Your Approval (Week 3-4)
Before submitting anything to the county, we present the design to you for review and approval. We'll walk you through the plans, answer any questions, and work with you to accommodate your preferences while ensuring full compliance with county and state regulations.
Timeline: 1-3 days for your review and approval.
Step 7: Permit Application Submission (Week 4)
Once you approve the design, we submit your permit application to the appropriate county health department. We handle all paperwork, correspondence, and follow-up with the county on your behalf.
Step 8: County Review and Permit Approval (Week 4-7)
The county health department reviews your application and design plans. Review times vary by county, but most approvals are issued within 2-3 weeks. We monitor your application status and communicate any updates or requests from the county.
Step 9: Installation Permit Issued (Week 6-8)
Once approved by the county, you will receive a physical, sealed copy in the mail. Your approved septic design becomes your official installation permit. Your work with us is now complete. You are ready to hire an installer and begin construction!
What Makes Our Process Different?
- Transparent Communication: We keep you informed at every major milestone and seek your input on key decisions throughout the design process.
- No Surprises: We explain what to expect, including realistic timelines and potential delays.
- Regulatory Expertise: We know the requirements for every South Jersey county and ensure your application is complete and accurate.
- Local Knowledge: Our team has designed over 25,000 septic systems throughout South and Central Jersey.
- Support Beyond Design: We're here to answer questions even after your permit is approved and system is installed.
Ready to Get Started?
Contact South Jersey Engineers today to begin your septic system design project. Our experienced team is here to answer your questions and guide you through every step of the process.
Call us at 856-651-9050 or fill out our contact form for a free quote today.
Serving South Jersey homeowners in Atlantic, Burlington, Camden, Cape May, Cumberland, Gloucester, Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth, Ocean, Salem, and Vineland counties.