Monroe, Ga. – September 30, 2026 -- Homeowners planning a new septic system should budget time for soil testing, permitting, and health department review before any digging starts, according to insights from Well Pump Expert Melissa Barton of Robinson Well Co in Monroe, Georgia, featured in a HelloNation article.
Soil testing determines whether a property can support a traditional system
The article explains that soil testing measures how quickly water moves through the ground, data that shapes the entire system design. Properties with poor drainage may need specialized equipment or alternative configurations instead of a standard drain field. Testing results also help determine the size and placement of the drain field itself.
Permits and health department approval can slow down a project timeline
Permit requirements differ by location, and approval timelines vary, so the article recommends starting the process as early as possible. Local health departments typically review site plans, soil test results, and setback distances before authorizing construction, a step meant to protect public health and nearby water sources.
Property layout and drainage patterns affect where a system can go
The location of homes, driveways, utility lines, and existing structures all factor into design decisions. Slopes and low-lying areas can complicate installation, and the article notes that storm and seasonal water movement across a property needs early evaluation to avoid standing water and long-term operational problems.
Household size and future additions influence system capacity
Larger households produce more wastewater, and the number of bedrooms is commonly used to calculate the appropriate system size. The article advises homeowners to factor in planned additions or extra bedrooms during the design phase, since future changes can increase demand on a system built without that capacity in mind.
The HelloNation article, titled "What Homeowners Should Know Before Installing a New Septic System," frames these steps as the difference between a system that performs reliably for years and one that runs into complications shortly after installation.