Case Study
Replacing a 70-Year-Old Failing Septic System—Complete Installation Under Budget
When a septic system has been in the ground for seven decades, replacement isn't just recommended—it's inevitable. This Northeast Ohio homeowner faced exactly that situation: a failing septic system original to their property, with no clear path forward. Here's how Judd Septic Tank Cleaning handled every aspect of the replacement, from permits to electrical to final landscaping—and delivered the project under budget.
Project Overview
Location: Northeast Ohio (Geauga County Area)
System Age: 70+ years old
Service Provided: Complete septic system replacement
Additional Services: Electrical integration, brush clearing, site restoration
Result: New system installed, under budget, full yard restoration
The Challenge: A 70-Year-Old Septic System Beyond Repair
After 70 years of service, this septic system had reached the end of its functional life. The homeowner was facing a complete system failure with no quick fixes available.
Signs of System Failure
The property showed classic signs of a septic system in distress: slow drains throughout the house, soggy areas in the yard above the drain field, and occasional sewage odors. For a system installed in the early 1950s, these symptoms pointed to one conclusion—full replacement was the only viable option.
Age-Related Complications
Septic systems from this era were built to different standards than today's installations. The existing tank, distribution box, and drain field had all deteriorated beyond repair. Additionally, the property's electrical setup needed updating to support a modern septic system with contemporary components.
Homeowner Concerns
Like many homeowners facing a major septic project, the customer had several worries: navigating the permit process with the health department, coordinating multiple contractors for electrical work, managing costs, and restoring their property after excavation. They needed a contractor who could handle everything—not just dig a hole and install a tank.
Our Solution: Full Septic System Replacement with Turnkey Service
Judd Septic Tank Cleaning provided a complete, turnkey solution that addressed every aspect of the project—so the homeowner didn't have to coordinate multiple contractors or navigate bureaucratic processes alone.
Initial Assessment & Planning
Richard Judd personally evaluated the property, assessed the failing system, and developed a comprehensive replacement plan. This included soil testing to determine the best drain field design for the property's specific conditions. Learn more about our septic inspection process.
The Judd Septic Approach
Rather than simply installing a tank and walking away, our approach included:
- Complete removal of the 70-year-old system
- Installation of a modern, code-compliant septic system
- Electrical work handled by our in-house electrician
- Full site restoration and grading after installation
- Bonus brush clearing at no additional charge
Coordinating with the Health Department
One of the biggest headaches for homeowners is dealing with permits and health department requirements. Richard Judd handled all communication with the health department directly—leveraging relationships built over 30+ years in the business. As the homeowner noted, "He knows them all." This meant zero permit headaches for the customer.
Step-by-Step Septic Replacement Process
Step 1: Site Evaluation & Soil Testing
Before any work began, we conducted thorough soil testing and site evaluation to determine the optimal location and design for the new system. This ensures the drain field will function properly for decades to come.
Step 2: Permit Acquisition & Health Department Coordination
We handled all permit applications and health department communications on behalf of the homeowner. Our established relationships with local health departments streamlined this process significantly.
Step 3: Old System Removal & New Installation
The 70-year-old tank, distribution box, and drain field were carefully excavated and removed. Our excavation team installed the new septic system to current Ohio health department specifications, ensuring compliance and longevity.
Step 4: Electrical Work & System Integration
Modern septic systems often require electrical components for pumps, alarms, or aerobic treatment units. Our in-house electrician handled all electrical integration, eliminating the need for the homeowner to hire a separate contractor.
Step 5: Site Restoration & Land Grading
After installation, we restored the excavated areas to grade using proper land grading techniques. Richard also noticed overgrown brush at the back of the property and cleared it out at no additional charge—going above and beyond what was expected.
Results: Modern Septic System Installed Under Budget
Project Timeline
The complete project—from initial assessment through final restoration—was completed efficiently with minimal disruption to the homeowner's daily life.
Final Cost vs. Estimate
Despite the complexity of replacing a 70-year-old system and including electrical work, the final bill came in under the original estimate. As the homeowner reported: "The total bill was a bit less than I expected."
Long-Term Benefits
The new septic system provides:
- Reliable waste processing for 25-30+ years with proper maintenance and pumping
- Compliance with current Ohio health department regulations
- Modern components that are easier to service and maintain
- Peace of mind knowing the system was installed by licensed professionals
What the Homeowner Says
“We replaced a 70 year old system with modern aeration and spray system. Judd Septic did exemplary precision work to install and restore grade. Rich Judd and his team are total professionals and good people to work with. They have our highest recommendation .“
Why Full-Service Septic Installation Makes the Difference
DIY Permit Headaches vs. Contractor-Managed Process
|
Managing It Yourself |
Judd Septic Full-Service |
|
Multiple trips to health department |
We handle all permits |
|
Coordinating separate electrician |
In-house electrical team |
|
Hiring landscaper for restoration |
Site restoration included |
|
Managing multiple invoices/schedules |
One point of contact, one invoice |
|
Stress and uncertainty |
"We didn't even have to think" |
Benefits for Owners of Older Properties
If your home was built before 1970, your septic system may be approaching or past its expected lifespan. Warning signs include slow drains throughout the house, soggy or wet areas in the yard above the drain field, sewage odors near the tank or drain field, and unusually green grass over the septic area. A professional septic inspection can determine whether repair or replacement is the right path forward.
Need to Replace an Aging Septic System? Get a Free Estimate
If you’re dealing with a failing or aging septic system in Northeast Ohio, Judd Septic Tank Cleaning can help. We provide complete septic installation services throughout Geauga, Lake, Cuyahoga, Portage, Ashtabula, and Trumbull counties—including permit coordination, electrical work, and site restoration.
Call (440) 595-4999 for a free estimate, or contact us online to schedule an evaluation.
Serving Northeast Ohio for 30+ years. Licensed, bonded, and insured. Learn more about Judd Septic.