Are you thinking about doing a septic to sewer conversion? Moving from using an underground septic tank on your own property to the public sewer system might sound daunting, but there are definite upsides – and downsides. The main downside, of course, is that it will cost you. So how much does it cost to convert septic to public sewer at your place?
First, let’s look at those upsides. For one, directing your waste into the sewer system is more reliable – because it’s designed to handle the toilet issues of the entire community. And it will probably make your property a bit more attractive if you want to sell up at the best possible price.
On the other hand, you might not have a choice as you consider that unavoidable septic to sewer conversion cost. Perhaps your council or wider environmental regulators have told you that you’re legally required to make the switch. Or maybe you’ve done renovations or added an extension and your tank can’t cope with the extra load.
How much does it cost to switch from septic to sewer, really?
You’re obviously going to need a plumber, but how do you calculate that septic tank to sewer conversion cost? You’ll obviously need a firm quote for your final calculations as to how much to convert septic to sewer, but here’s what you’re basically looking at:
1. Connection fee
You’re probably going to be slapped with a connection fee from your local authorities, and potentially also the cost of some permits or approvals. Bear in mind that it can differ depending on your situation, so a good place to start is by asking the council. But you’re looking at a few hundred dollars at least.
2. Plumber
In Queensland and basically everywhere else in our great country, you’ll need a licensed plumber to do the sewage plant treatment work for you. It will probably take at least 15 hours, but perhaps more, for all the assessments, the removal of the tank, the installation of new pipes, and the actual sewer connection. Budget for at least $1200.
3. Excavation
A typical plumber won’t necessarily do a lot of digging to make way for those new pipes, so it could set you back $50-$100 per square metre for that – bearing in mind that your specific land profile could mean it costs even more. Prepare for $500-$1000. You’ll save money using a specialist drain and sewer plumber who also has the equipment to efficiently take care of the excavation.
4. Pipe materials
Only your plumber will be able to tell you the precise piping type your connection requires, and you may even be given a choice. Therefore, it could be a couple of hundred dollars or it could be a lot more.
5. Tank decommissioning
We know we’ve already mentioned removal and disposal of the septic tank, but proper decommissioning is probably also necessary to prevent environmental hazards like soil contamination. Brace for at least $500 here, although it could be bundled with the labour costs.
6. Wastewater grinder pump
This one may be necessary if your home is below the grade of the sewer line. Unfortunately, it can be pricey so expect at least $1000 or more.
7. Inspections
Local authorities may demand a mandatory inspection at the end of the process to confirm that the new system complies with regulations, but it shouldn’t cost much – just $100-$300, depending on your situation.
8. Contingency costs
With work like this, you should always put a little aside to account for the unexpected – like the discovery of utility lines, or soil or drainage issues. It’s hard to say much you should factor for here, but just be prepared.
9. Restoration
The post-construction phase can also hit you in the hip pocket, which may be a bit of new landscaping or even the full restoration of paving or concreting. It’s hard to say how much, but it could be cheap or it could be pricey.
Septic to sewer conversion could be cheaper than you think
So, what’s the verdict? How much does it cost to convert septic to sewer? Unfortunately, you’re looking at thousands – perhaps just a few, and perhaps up to an eye-watering $20,000. Wow! But before you start panicking, have you asked a local plumbing service that absolutely specialises in all sorts of drainage issues? At Drain Masters Plumbing, it’s right there in our name – and you could be stunned to discover that the cost to convert septic to sewer is actually a lot lower than others are telling you.
Our highly experienced plumbers service all of Brisbane including West End, Calamvale, Jindalee, Wellington Point and beyond with true quality workmanship at really affordable rates. If you’re on the Gold Coast or Tweed Heads & Kingscliff in Northern NSW we have you covered too. So get in touch with Drain Masters Plumbing today to find out more.
