How to Hire a Well or Septic Contractor: Complete Guide

Last updated: April 2026

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Quick Answer

Texas requires a license to drill a water-related well and to install a pump for a water-related well Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation.
You can search a directory of over 6,000 licensed water well drilling contractors and pump installers nationwide DrillerDB.
Private well owners are responsible for maintaining their water wells and plugging unused wells Prairielands Groundwater Conservation District.
Proper construction, maintenance, and plugging prevent groundwater contamination Prairielands Groundwater Conservation District.

Hiring the right well or septic contractor means finding licensed professionals who understand local regulations and best practices. In Texas, for example, a license is mandatory to drill a water-related well and to install its pump, with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) overseeing these activities https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/wwd/. Homeowners must also take responsibility for maintaining their private water wells and properly plugging any unused wells on their property. This ensures that groundwater stays clean and prevents contamination pathways. Directories like DrillerDB list over 6,000 licensed water well drilling contractors and pump installers across the country, making it easier to find qualified help https://drillerdb.com/find-drillers. When you choose a contractor, always verify their credentials and ensure they comply with state-specific requirements.

What Licenses Do Well and Septic Contractors Need?

Well and septic contractors need specific licenses to operate legally and safely, with requirements varying by state and local jurisdiction. In Texas, for instance, a license is a must for anyone drilling a water-related well and for installing a pump for that well. The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) is the agency that regulates private water well drilling and pump installation in the state https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/wwd/. This licensing system helps ensure that contractors have the necessary knowledge and skills to perform complex work that directly impacts public health and environmental quality.

Beyond just drilling and pump installation, contractors might need different licenses for various aspects of well and septic work, such as well construction, maintenance, repair, and plugging. These licenses often require contractors to pass exams, meet experience requirements, and complete continuing education. The TDLR provides resources for renewing driller or installer licenses, applying for new licenses, and even registering as an apprentice. They also publish technical guidance and reports on well drilling and pump installing, well construction and plugging specifications, and how to handle abandoned or deteriorated wells https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/wwd/.

For septic systems, regulations are often managed at the local level, such as by county health departments. These local authorities set standards for the design, installation, maintenance, and repair of sewage treatment systems (STS). Contractors working on these systems must adhere to these local rules, which might include specific certifications or permits. Some states, like Ohio, have an eLicense Center where you can search for contractor licenses to verify their credentials https://elicense4.com.ohio.gov/lookup/licenselookup.aspx. This public lookup tool allows homeowners to confirm that a contractor holds a valid license before hiring them. Want to understand what your contractor will need to file on the permit side? Our Well & Septic Permit Process by State [2026 Walk-Through] lays out the full state-by-state path.

"A license is required to drill a water-related well in Texas and to install a pump for a water-related well. TDLR regulates private water well drilling and pump installation," states the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) Homepage https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/wwd/. This highlights the importance of checking licensing for any well-related project. Without proper licensing, contractors may not be up-to-date on the latest safety standards, environmental regulations, or technical specifications. This could lead to serious issues, including well contamination, system failure, or even legal problems for the homeowner. For example, the TDLR offers technical guidance on well drilling and pump installing, as well as well construction and plugging specs, all of which licensed professionals must follow https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/wwd/drilling-installing.htm.

We recommend homeowners always ask for proof of current licensing and verify it through the appropriate state or local authority. This step helps protect your investment and ensures the work on your well or septic system is done correctly and safely. The process of managing a license, including applying and renewing, is detailed on the TDLR website for water well drillers and pump installers, showing the ongoing commitment required of these professionals https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/wwd/apply-driller-installer.htm.

State-Specific Well Licensing

Each state has its own system for licensing water well drillers and pump installers. In Texas, the TDLR handles these licenses, providing clear guidelines for application, renewal, and continuing education https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/wwd/. This means a contractor licensed in one state may not be licensed to work in another. It's crucial to check the specific requirements for your location. The TDLR even provides information on penalties and sanctions for water well drillers, showing the seriousness of their regulatory oversight https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/enforcement/wwdsanctions.htm.

Septic System Certifications

Septic system contractors often need certifications or registrations from local health departments. These certifications typically cover knowledge of septic system design, installation, maintenance, and repair, as well as local codes. For example, Hamilton County Public Health in Ohio manages sewage treatment systems, indicating that local authorities play a key role in regulating these services https://hamiltoncountyhealth.org/services/water-quality/new-sewage-treatment-systems/. Cincinnati's Health Department also has a section on household sewage, further emphasizing local control https://www.cincinnati-oh.gov/health/chd-programs/environmental-health/household-sewage/.

Importance of Continuing Education

Many licensing bodies, like the TDLR for water well drillers and pump installers, require continuing education credits for license renewal https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/wwd/wwdce.htm. This ensures contractors stay updated on new technologies, regulations, and best practices in the industry. For homeowners, hiring a contractor who regularly completes continuing education means they are likely to have the most current knowledge and skills.

How Do You Find a Qualified Well Contractor?

Finding a qualified well contractor involves using online directories, checking professional associations, and verifying state licenses. You want a contractor who can handle your specific needs, whether that's drilling a new deep well, installing a geothermal system, or providing emergency pump service. Many online resources list licensed professionals, making your search more efficient.

One excellent starting point is online directories that specialize in well services. DrillerDB, for example, lists over 6,000 licensed water well drilling contractors, pump installers, and emergency well service teams nationwide https://drillerdb.com/find-drillers. This platform allows you to search by location, compare services offered by different companies, and even read customer reviews. When we use such tools, we can filter for specific services like "Water well drilling," "Pump installation," or "Emergency well service," which helps narrow down the options to contractors who meet our exact project requirements.

Another valuable resource is WellOwner.org, which features water well professionals who are members of the National Groundwater Association (NGWA). Their Texas Water Well Contractor Lookup tool, for instance, lists contractors in the state https://wellowner.org/find-a-contractor/texas/?load-page=7. While NGWA membership is a good indicator of professionalism, WellOwner.org advises verifying with your state to ensure compliance with any state-specific requirements. They also make it clear that NGWA does not endorse or guarantee the work of any listed company. This reminds us to always perform our own due diligence.

When you find potential contractors, it's crucial to verify their licenses. As mentioned, states like Texas require licenses for drilling and pump installation, regulated by the TDLR https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/wwd/. For those in Ohio, the OCILB eLicense Center allows you to search for licenses by business name or credential number, providing a direct way to confirm a contractor's legitimacy Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board Lookup. This step is non-negotiable for ensuring you hire a legally operating and qualified professional.

Beyond licensing, consider the range of services a contractor offers. Some specialize in deep wells, while others might focus on geothermal systems or water testing. For example, DrillerDB lists contractors offering services such as "Water well drilling," "Pump installation," "Pump servicing," "Free drilling estimates," "Well construction," "Well maintenance and repair," "Well drilling," "Pump design," "Well repair," "Water pumps," "Pressure tanks," "Irrigation accessories," "Water Supply," "Dual Rotary," "Rotary," "Pump repair (24-hour emergency service)," and "Pumps and water system installation" National Water Well Contractor Directory. A contractor with a broad range of services might be more versatile for future needs, but a specialist could be better for a highly specific project.

We also look for contractors who demonstrate good customer service, offer clear communication, and provide detailed estimates. Some listings on DrillerDB specifically mention "Personalized customer support" or "Free drilling estimates," which are good signs. Always get multiple quotes and compare them thoroughly, making sure each quote details the scope of work, materials, timeline, and warranty information. This helps avoid unexpected costs and ensures everyone is on the same page before work begins.

Utilizing Online Directories

Online directories like DrillerDB and WellOwner.org are powerful tools for starting your search. DrillerDB boasts over 6,000 licensed water well drilling contractors and pump installers nationwide, making it a comprehensive resource for finding local professionals https://drillerdb.com/find-drillers. You can typically filter by location, services, and sometimes even read reviews from previous clients. WellOwner.org's Texas directory specifically highlights NGWA members, which can be an indicator of a contractor's commitment to industry standards https://wellowner.org/find-a-contractor/texas/?load-page=7.

Verifying State Requirements

Before making a final decision, always check with your state's licensing board. For Texas, the TDLR website provides detailed information about water well drillers and pump installers, including how to search for licenses and view disciplinary actions Texas Water Well Drillers and Pump Installers Licensing. This step ensures the contractor is legally permitted to perform the work in your area.

Comparing Services and Expertise

Different contractors offer different specialties. Some may be experts in deep well drilling, while others focus on pump repair or water treatment systems. When reviewing contractors on sites like DrillerDB, pay attention to the specific services they list, such as "deep wells," "geothermal systems," or "emergency well service" https://drillerdb.com/find-drillers. Choose a contractor whose expertise matches your project's needs.

What About Septic System Contractors?

Septic system contractors need to be knowledgeable about local health codes and environmental regulations, as these systems are crucial for public health and water quality. Unlike well drilling, which often has state-level licensing, septic system oversight is frequently handled by county or city health departments. These local bodies set the standards for design, installation, maintenance, and repair of sewage treatment systems (STS).

For example, Hamilton County Public Health directly manages sewage treatment systems, indicating that you would typically consult your local health department for guidance on septic contractors and regulations in that area https://hamiltoncountyhealth.org/services/water-quality/new-sewage-treatment-systems/. Similarly, the Cincinnati Health Department has a dedicated section for household sewage, outlining their programs and requirements https://www.cincinnati-oh.gov/health/chd-programs/environmental-health/household-sewage/. This local control means that requirements for septic contractors can vary significantly from one county or city to another, even within the same state.

Contractors working on septic systems often need to obtain specific permits for each project. They must demonstrate an understanding of soil conditions, system sizing, and proper waste disposal methods to prevent environmental contamination. Many local jurisdictions also require specific certifications or training programs for septic system installers and inspectors. For instance, the Operator Training Committee of Ohio (OTCO) offers a Sewage Treatment Systems (STS) program, which includes an exam. As of February 1, 2023, there is a $65 fee for this exam, which must be paid via credit or debit card during registration https://otco.org/sts-program. This type of exam ensures that professionals working on septic systems have a baseline level of knowledge and competence.

When selecting a septic contractor, we look for proof of local registration or certification, along with references from past clients. A reputable contractor will be familiar with your local health department's specific requirements and can guide you through the permitting process. They should also be able to explain the different types of septic systems, such as conventional, aerobic, or mound systems, and recommend the best option for your property's soil and usage. Understanding these options is critical for long-term system health and compliance.

The importance of proper septic system maintenance cannot be overstated. A poorly installed or maintained system can lead to serious health hazards, including contaminated groundwater, unpleasant odors, and costly repairs. Homeowners are ultimately responsible for the upkeep of their sewage treatment systems. Choosing a contractor who emphasizes routine maintenance and offers ongoing service plans can help extend the life of your system and prevent future problems. The OTCO also provides information on new courses for STS renewals, indicating the ongoing need for professionals to update their knowledge in this field https://otco.org/sts-program.

We advise homeowners to get detailed written estimates that clearly outline the scope of work, materials, labor costs, and any necessary permits. Make sure the estimate includes details on excavation, tank installation, drain field construction, and any electrical or plumbing connections. A comprehensive estimate helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures all aspects of the job are covered.

Local Health Department Oversight

Local health departments are typically the primary regulators for sewage treatment systems. They issue permits, conduct inspections, and enforce local codes. For example, Hamilton County Public Health oversees new sewage treatment systems in its area, providing guidelines and services to ensure compliance https://hamiltoncountyhealth.org/services/water-quality/new-sewage-treatment-systems/. Always check with your specific county or city health department for their requirements.

Specific Training and Exams

Some regions require specific training or exams for septic professionals. In Ohio, the Operator Training Committee of Ohio (OTCO) administers a Sewage Treatment Systems (STS) exam, which helps ensure contractors have the necessary expertise. The exam costs $65 as of February 1, 2023, and payment is required during registration https://otco.org/sts-program. This shows a commitment to professional standards in septic system work.

Importance of Detailed Proposals

When hiring a septic contractor, always request a detailed proposal. This proposal should clearly define the type of system being installed or repaired, the materials to be used, the timeline for completion, and all associated costs. It should also include information about permits, inspections, and any warranties on parts or labor. A clear proposal protects both the homeowner and the contractor.

Why is Proper Well and Septic Maintenance Important?

Proper well and septic maintenance is vital because it directly protects groundwater quality, ensures a safe water supply for your home, and prevents costly system failures. When these systems are not maintained correctly, they can become pathways for contamination, polluting the very groundwater that many homes rely on.

"As a private owner of a domestic water well, you are responsible for maintaining your water well and plugging unused water wells located on your property. Proper construction, maintenance, and plugging of water wells are necessary so that the water wells do not become a pathway for contamination to pollute the groundwater," explains the Prairielands Groundwater Conservation District https://www.prairielandsgcd.org/well-owner-resources/. This statement clearly outlines the homeowner's responsibility and the direct link between maintenance and preventing pollution. Without regular checks and timely repairs, a well can draw in contaminants from the surface or from poorly sealed casings, introducing bacteria, nitrates, or other harmful substances into your drinking water.

For septic systems, neglecting maintenance can lead to sewage backups, foul odors, and eventual system failure. When a septic tank isn't pumped regularly, solids build up, eventually overflowing into the drain field. This clogs the soil, preventing proper wastewater treatment and causing untreated sewage to surface or seep into groundwater. The environmental and health consequences of a failing septic system can be severe, affecting not only your property but also neighboring properties and local ecosystems. Local health departments, such as Hamilton County Public Health, emphasize the importance of managing sewage treatment systems to protect water quality https://hamiltoncountyhealth.org/services/water-quality/new-sewage-treatment-systems/.

Beyond environmental protection, proper maintenance extends the lifespan of your well and septic systems. A well pump that is regularly inspected and serviced is less likely to fail unexpectedly, saving you from emergency repair costs and periods without water. Similarly, routine pumping of a septic tank can prevent drain field damage, which is often the most expensive part of a septic system to replace. Proactive maintenance is almost always more cost-effective than reactive repairs, especially when dealing with complex underground infrastructure.

We often see how small issues, if ignored, can escalate into major problems. A minor leak in a well casing or a clogged septic pipe can quickly lead to widespread contamination or system collapse. Regular inspections by qualified professionals can identify these issues early, allowing for minor repairs before they become catastrophic. The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) provides technical guidance on well construction and plugging specifications, highlighting the detailed work required to build and maintain wells correctly https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/wwd/wwdspecs.htm. Adhering to these specifications through proper maintenance is key.

Homeowners also benefit from regular water testing. Even a properly maintained well can be affected by changes in groundwater conditions. Annual water testing helps monitor water quality and detect contaminants that might not be visible or tasteable. This ensures the water remains safe for drinking and other household uses. The Prairielands Groundwater Conservation District provides well owner resources, underscoring the ongoing need for vigilance and maintenance https://www.prairielandsgcd.org/well-owner-resources/.

Preventing Groundwater Contamination

The primary reason for proper well and septic maintenance is to prevent groundwater contamination. Untreated sewage or pollutants from a poorly constructed or maintained well can seep into the aquifer, affecting drinking water sources for many. The Prairielands Groundwater Conservation District explicitly states that proper construction, maintenance, and plugging are necessary to prevent wells from becoming a pathway for contamination https://www.prairielandsgcd.org/well-owner-resources/.

Extending System Lifespan

Regular maintenance significantly prolongs the life of your well and septic systems. For wells, this includes pump checks, casing inspections, and water quality testing. For septic systems, it means routine tank pumping and drain field inspections. These actions prevent premature wear and tear, saving homeowners from expensive replacements.

Ensuring Health and Safety

A functional well provides safe drinking water, while a well-maintained septic system safely processes household waste. Neglecting either can lead to serious health risks, including exposure to pathogens and chemicals. The Cincinnati Health Department's focus on household sewage underscores the public health aspect of these systems https://www.cincinnati-oh.gov/health/chd-programs/environmental-health/household-sewage/.

How Do You Check a Contractor's Background and Reviews?

Checking a contractor's background and reviews is a critical step to ensure you hire a reputable and reliable professional for your well or septic system. This process involves verifying licenses, looking for official complaints, and reading feedback from other customers. A thorough check helps protect your investment and ensures the work will be done to a high standard.

First, always verify their license with the appropriate state or local licensing board. In Texas, for water well drillers and pump installers, you can search the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) website https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/wwd/. This site allows you to confirm if a license is active and in good standing. For other states, like Ohio, the OCILB eLicense Center provides a search function to look up licenses by credential number or business name Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board Lookup. This direct verification is the most reliable way to confirm a contractor's legal standing. We also check for any disciplinary actions or complaints filed against the contractor through these same licensing boards. The TDLR, for example, publishes information on Water Well Drillers Penalties and Sanctions, which can reveal past issues https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/enforcement/wwdsanctions.htm.

Next, delve into online reviews and testimonials. Websites like DrillerDB, which lists over 6,000 licensed water well drilling contractors nationwide, often include sections where customers can compare services and read reviews https://drillerdb.com/find-drillers. While individual reviews should be taken with a grain of salt, a pattern of positive or negative feedback can be very telling. Look for comments that are specific about the quality of work, adherence to timelines, communication, and professionalism. Be wary of contractors with no online presence or very few reviews, as this could indicate a lack of experience or transparency.

When reviewing feedback, pay attention to how the contractor responds to criticism, if visible. A professional contractor will often address negative reviews constructively, showing a commitment to customer satisfaction and problem-solving. We also consider how long a company has been in business, which can be an indicator of stability and experience. While new companies can be excellent, a long-standing business often has a proven track record.

Ask the contractor for references from previous clients who had similar work done. Contact these references and ask specific questions about their experience: Was the project completed on time and within budget? Were there any unexpected issues, and how were they handled? Was the communication clear? Would they hire the contractor again? These conversations can provide invaluable insights that online reviews might miss.

Finally, ensure the contractor carries adequate insurance, including liability insurance and workers' compensation. This protects you from financial responsibility if an accident occurs on your property or if a worker gets injured. A reputable contractor will readily provide proof of insurance. We always include this as a non-negotiable item when vetting potential contractors.

Verifying Licenses and Credentials

The first step is always to verify a contractor's license. State licensing boards, like the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation, offer online search tools to confirm a contractor's current license status and any past disciplinary actions Texas Water Well Drillers and Pump Installers Licensing. For Ohio, the OCILB eLicense Center performs a similar function, allowing you to search for licensee information https://elicense4.com.ohio.gov/lookup/licenselookup.aspx.

Reading Online Reviews and Testimonials

Online platforms like DrillerDB allow users to compare services and read reviews for over 6,000 licensed water well drilling contractors National Water Well Contractor Directory. Look for consistent themes in reviews regarding professionalism, quality of work, and communication. A pattern of positive feedback is a good sign, while repeated negative comments should raise red flags.

Checking for Complaints and Disciplinary Actions

Beyond reviews, check with the state licensing board for any official complaints or disciplinary actions against the contractor. These records are public information and can reveal serious issues that might not appear in online reviews. For example, the TDLR lists penalties and sanctions for water well drillers, providing transparency into their enforcement actions https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/enforcement/wwdsanctions.htm.

What Resources Are Available for Well and Septic Owners?

Well and septic owners have a variety of resources available to help them understand, maintain, and manage their water and waste systems effectively. These resources come from state government agencies, local health departments, and specialized groundwater conservation districts. Utilizing these tools can empower homeowners to make informed decisions about their property's infrastructure.

State departments of licensing and regulation are primary resources for well owners. For example, the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) provides extensive information for water well drillers and pump installers, but also offers technical guidance that is invaluable to homeowners. This includes details on well drilling and pump installing, well construction and plugging specifications, and advice on abandoned or deteriorated wells https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/wwd/. They also manage the Texas Well Reporting System for wells drilled after 2002, which can be a useful database for understanding local well activity http://www.twdb.texas.gov/groundwater/data/drillersdb.asp. For older wells, drilled before 2003, TCEQ Well Reports are available, providing a historical perspective on well data https://www.tceq.texas.gov/drinkingwater/SWAP/wells.html.

Groundwater conservation districts also serve as vital resources. The Prairielands Groundwater Conservation District, for instance, offers a dedicated "Well Owner Resources" page. This page emphasizes the private owner's responsibility for maintaining their water well and plugging unused wells to prevent groundwater contamination https://www.prairielandsgcd.org/well-owner-resources/. Such districts often provide localized information about aquifer health, water quality, and best management practices tailored to specific regional conditions. They are a good point of contact for understanding local groundwater issues and conservation efforts.

For septic system owners, local health departments are the go-to resource. Agencies like Hamilton County Public Health provide guidance on new sewage treatment systems, including regulations, permitting processes, and maintenance advice https://hamiltoncountyhealth.org/services/water-quality/new-sewage-treatment-systems/. The Cincinnati Health Department also offers information on household sewage, which can include details on inspections, permits, and proper disposal https://www.cincinnati-oh.gov/health/chd-programs/environmental-health/household-sewage/. These local bodies are crucial for ensuring septic systems comply with health and environmental standards.

Professional organizations, such as the National Groundwater Association (NGWA), often provide general guidance and educational materials for well owners, even if they don't directly regulate contractors. Their WellOwner.org website, for example, offers a contractor lookup tool and general tips for well owners https://wellowner.org/find-a-contractor/texas/?load-page=7. While we always verify state-specific requirements, these broader resources offer foundational knowledge.

Finally, some states provide online portals for checking contractor licenses, which is a key resource for homeowners. The OCILB eLicense Center in Ohio, for instance, allows users to search for licensed professionals, helping to ensure they are hiring a qualified and legally operating contractor https://elicense4.com.ohio.gov/lookup/licenselookup.aspx. Always use these official government websites to confirm credentials before engaging any contractor.

State Regulatory Bodies

State departments of licensing and regulation, like the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR), offer comprehensive resources for well owners. This includes technical guidance, well construction and plugging specifications, and information on how to report wells drilled after 2002 through the Texas Well Reporting System https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/wwd/. They also provide access to TCEQ Well Reports for wells drilled before 2003, offering historical data https://www.tceq.texas.gov/drinkingwater/SWAP/wells.html.

Groundwater Conservation Districts

Local groundwater conservation districts, such as the Prairielands Groundwater Conservation District, are excellent resources for well owners. They provide information on maintaining water wells and plugging unused ones to prevent contamination, emphasizing the homeowner's responsibility https://www.prairielandsgcd.org/well-owner-resources/. These districts often have localized expertise on groundwater issues.

Local Health Departments

For septic system owners, local health departments are crucial. Agencies like Hamilton County Public Health offer services and information related to new sewage treatment systems, guiding homeowners through regulations and proper management https://hamiltoncountyhealth.org/services/water-quality/new-sewage-treatment-systems/. They are the primary contact for septic system permits and compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do well contractors need to be licensed?

Yes, well contractors typically need to be licensed, and these requirements vary by state. In Texas, for example, a license is required both to drill a water-related well and to install a pump for it. The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) oversees these licenses to ensure proper standards are met https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/wwd/. Always verify a contractor's license with the relevant state or local authority.

Where can I find a septic system contractor?

You can find septic system contractors through your local county or city health department, as they often regulate these systems and may provide lists of approved professionals. Online directories might also list septic contractors, but it's essential to verify their local certifications. Hamilton County Public Health, for instance, manages sewage treatment systems, indicating local oversight https://hamiltoncountyhealth.org/services/water-quality/new-sewage-treatment-systems/.

How often should I have my well inspected?

We recommend having your well inspected annually by a qualified professional. This routine check helps identify potential issues early, such as problems with the pump, casing, or water quality. The Prairielands Groundwater Conservation District highlights that private well owners are responsible for maintaining their wells to prevent contamination https://www.prairielandsgcd.org/well-owner-resources/. Regular inspections are a key part of this responsibility.

What are the risks of an improperly maintained well?

An improperly maintained well poses several risks, including groundwater contamination, unsafe drinking water, and costly system failures. Without proper construction, maintenance, and plugging, wells can become pathways for pollutants to enter the groundwater, as stated by the Prairielands Groundwater Conservation District https://www.prairielandsgcd.org/well-owner-resources/. This can lead to health hazards and extensive repair expenses.

Is there a fee for septic system exams in Ohio?

Yes, in Ohio, there is a fee for the Sewage Treatment Systems (STS) exam. Effective February 1, 2023, the exam fee is $65. This fee must be paid via credit or debit card during registration, as checks are not accepted. This exam is part of the program offered by the Operator Training Committee of Ohio (OTCO) for septic professionals https://otco.org/sts-program.