Initial call and site check. Share symptoms, age of your system, pumping history, and lot details. A pro will visit, locate components, and evaluate drainage patterns and access.

Records and soil testing. If past permits exist, your installer will pull them. Expect a percolation test or soil evaluation to confirm the right design and capacity.

Design and proposal. You’ll receive a clear design showing field type, trench depth, distribution, and setbacks. The proposal should list scope, materials, schedule, and warranty.

Permits and scheduling. Your installer files for county approval, coordinates inspection windows, and sets a start date that fits your calendar and weather.

Decommissioning the old field. The crew isolates failing lines and manages wastewater safely to maintain hygiene throughout the project.

Installation. They excavate, grade, install chambers or pipes with clean aggregate, set distribution boxes, and ensure level, even flow.

Inspection and backfill. County officials verify the work matches plans. The crew backfills, restores grade, and stabilizes soil to prevent erosion.

Start-up and care plan. You get a simple maintenance schedule, do’s and don’ts, and an as-built for future reference.

Local codes, soil, and permits in Spartanburg County, South Carolina

Soils vary from sandy loam to clayey layers. That means percolation rates can range widely, affecting system size and style. Setbacks from wells, streams, and structures must be respected. Many sites need reserve area planning for future repairs. Your installer will follow South Carolina DHEC guidance and county requirements, schedule inspections at the right stages, and provide erosion control so silt does not leave the site.

Timeline, budget, and what to expect

Most replacements take a few days once permits are in place. Weather, soil moisture, and site access can add time. Budgets vary with system size, depth, rock conditions, tree removal, or need for alternative technology. Clear proposals itemize excavation, materials, aggregate, chambers or pipe, distribution components, restoration, and hauling. Ask for allowances on rock or unsuitable soil so surprises are limited. Good crews keep the site tidy, protect landscaping where possible, and communicate every step of the way. Expect a final walkthrough that reviews elevations, flow testing, distribution balance, restoration details, and your maintenance plan.

How to choose the right local partner

Look for proof of licensing and insurance, recent local references, and photos of similar projects. A trustworthy contractor answers questions, explains trade-offs, and shows you elevations and level checks before backfilling. They plan traffic paths to avoid damaging driveways and coordinate pump-downs to limit downtime inside the home. They also explain why your old field failed so you can avoid repeating the same habits.

Care tips after your new field is in

Pump the tank on schedule based on household size and usage. Spread out laundry, fix leaky fixtures, and avoid sending grease, wipes, or harsh chemicals down the drain. Divert roof drains and yard irrigation away from the field. Do not drive or build over the area. Keep a simple sketch with measurements to help future service. A few small habits pay huge dividends in system life.