Septic FAQ
Common questions from homeowners, buyers, and realtors in Berrien County & southwest Michigan
What are your business hours?
Monday–Friday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM. Emergency septic call-outs available by phone when possible. Call (269) 479-6522 or book pumping online.
1. How often should I pump my septic tank?
Berrien County Health Department recommends pumping about every three years. Frequency can vary by tank size, household size, and water use. Affordable Home Septic (SH-1718) can pump and advise based on your tank.
2. Do I need a health department permit for septic repair?
In Berrien County, a permit is required to construct, alter, extend, or replace a sewage disposal system. Repairing or replacing only the sewer line between the house and tank, or between the tank and disposal area, often does not require a construction permit. When unsure, call BCHD Environmental Health at 269-927-5623 or Affordable Home Septic.
3. Where do I get a Berrien County septic permit application?
Download the Sewage/Septic Permit Application from Berrien County Health Department, review fees, and start at the On-Site Septic page. Links are on our Customer Info page.
4. Is Affordable Home Septic a licensed septage hauler?
Yes. Affordable Home Septic LLC is listed on Berrien County’s official List of Septage Haulers as SH-1718, Galien, MI, phone (269) 479-6522.
5. Can I finance a failing septic system?
Possibly through the Michigan Saves Septic Replacement Loan Program. Affordable Home Septic is an authorized contractor (ID 204459). Homeowners apply at michigansaves.org/loancenter after health department documentation and a contractor bid.
6. What should I do before a septic dig or repair?
Call MISS DIG 811 before excavation, keep vehicles off the field, note tank and well locations, and confirm whether a BCHD permit is required. Affordable Home Septic walks customers through this sequence.
7. What areas do you serve?
Southwest Michigan including Galien, Buchanan, Three Oaks, Baroda, Sawyer, Dowagiac, Union, New Buffalo, Niles, Berrien Springs, Bridgman, St. Joseph, Benton Harbor, Cassopolis, Edwardsburg, Sodus, and nearby communities. See each town page for a service-area map.
Service trip fee: Jobs more than 20 miles from our Galien shop (16417 Gardner Rd) include a service trip charge. We’ll quote the trip fee when you book so there are no surprises.
8. Who do I call for septic backup or sewage on the ground?
Stop unnecessary water use, keep people and pets away from sewage, and call a licensed professional. For Affordable Home Septic call (269) 479-6522. For permit questions call BCHD Environmental Health at 269-927-5623.
9. How much does septic pumping cost? (full price list)
| Service | Price |
|---|---|
| Weekend / after-hours / same-day service (extra on top of job) | Quoted |
| Pump up to 1,000 gallons | $320 |
| Pump up to 1,200 gallons | $360 |
| Pump up to 1,500 gallons | $390 |
| Pump up to 2,000 gallons | $540 |
| Digital locate (electronic pill / locator) | $150 |
| Hand dig / uncover lid (depends how easy to locate & how deep) | From $75 |
| Riser install to grade (quoted by depth & access) | $280–$550 |
| Service trip fee (more than 20 miles from Galien shop) | Quoted |
10. How much does a new septic system cost?
We only prepare written new-installation quotes after you upload the Health Department permit / soil recommendation (bedrooms, soil type, and the system the county approved). We do not firm-price a new system from photos or a phone call alone.
Email the permit PDF to info@affordablehomeseptic.com or use the contact form, then we quote the install to match that permit.
Typical planning ranges for a 2-bedroom home (not a bid until we have the HD package):
- Conventional drain field — about $14,000 – $22,000
- Mound system — about $22,000 – $35,000+
See new systems — permit first · how to get a BCHD permit · Michigan Saves.
Pump prices assume lids are easy to open. Locate and dig are extra when the lid is buried. Full notes on Customer Info · Book pumping.
Quick links
Hours: Monday–Friday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Emergency septic call-outs available by phone when possible
- Permits & applications
- Licensed hauler SH-1718
- Michigan Saves financing
- Septic care tips
- Install & repair detail
- BCHD permit application PDF
- BCHD On-Site Septic