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perc test helps to determine if the soil at a given site can support the construction of a septic leach field or drainfield. A perc test (or percolation test) is often conducted in association with a real estate transaction. When purchasing a piece of property without access to public sewers - you will want to make sure you can build the appropriate wastewater disposal system.
| Average Septic Perc Test Cost |
|---|
| Allentown, PA | $286.24 - $365.20 |
| Anchorage, AK | $372.37 - $475.09 |
| Charleston, WV | $268.84 - $343.00 |
| Chattanooga, TN | $264.20 - $337.08 |
| Colorado Springs, CO | $269.13 - $343.37 |
| Kansas City, MO | $283.63 - $361.87 |
| New Orleans, LA | $290.59 - $370.75 |
| Pasadena, CA | $396.15 - $505.43 |
| Plano, TX | $282.47 - $360.39 |
| Portland, ME | $337.86 - $431.06 |
| South Bend, IN | $266.52 - $340.04 |
| Tulsa, OK | $256.37 - $327.09 |
| Tuscaloosa, AL | $274.35 - $350.03 |
| Winston Salem, NC | $267.97 - $341.89 |
| Free Perc Test Cost Estimates |
|---|
These prices are ballpark estimates. They cannot be guaranteed. Use our free matching service to get
free cost estimates from local perc testing services.
The cost of a soil percolation test depends on:
1. Site conditions. Do you anticipate any complications? Has the land failed a perc test in the past? In most cases, you will not be able to secure a septic permit without proving the soil is suitable for a septic system. If the first area tested does not have an acceptable percolation rate, testing another area may cost extra.
2. Type of equipment required. For instance, you may need to rent a backhoe loader to complete the excavation work.
3. Property size. If multiple areas of the property need to be evaluated, the cost will increase with each additional test.
4. Type of testing required by your local health department. Perc testing requirements can vary greatly by city and by county. You will have to do some research about the septic design process in your local area. More extensive testing will cost extra time and money. A soils engineer or a septic designer can also guide you through the process.
5. Where you live. The cost of the perc test process will also depend on your geographic location. Take advantage of our cost report to research estimated prices near you.
6. Your contractor's travel time. If you live in a remote area, a fuel surcharge may be added to your final bill. This helps to cover the extra time required to reach your home or business.
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If the soil's percolation rate is acceptable, you should be able to move forward with the construction of your septic system.
Perc test failed? You have options! A failed perc test is not the end of the world.
A septic designer may be able to help you design an alternative or engineered system. You can also wait and re-test during a different part of the year. In other cases, you may be able to appeal the test results and get a second option from another soils engineer.
How much is a perc test near you? Research costs in your local area with our
Soil Testing Cost Report.
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