What should I include in a scope for an on-site wastewater (septic) designer?

Summary: Designs the treatment system and effluent disposal area where there is no sewer.

Why it matters: The disposal area can take a large share of a rural lot and affect where the house goes.

When needed: No sewer connection available.

Minimum scope by stage

• Design: site and soil assessment for effluent disposal; system selection and sizing
• Approval: disposal area design and plan; council application documents
• Construction: inspection of the installed system and disposal area before backfill where required
• Completion: commissioning, as-installed plan and certification for council approval to operate

Options

• Combined with geotechnical testing
• Greywater reuse design
• Ongoing service contract set-up

Meetings and site visits: One design visit (often with soil testing); inspection and commissioning visits.