Caution to Homeowners

In the county I work in, we have come across a septic professional, and I use the term loosely, who has sold several homeowners a "quick fix" for their septic system. This septic company decided he would go out and buy a simple aquarium "bubbler" and a small air compressor, install the compressor in a control box, run the "bubbler" into the distribution box, and claim that this will aerate the system and rejuvinate it. And he is charging homeowners a couple thousand bucks for this system he probably paid a couple hundred bucks for at most, and it isn't even something that would help one bit. This "jimmy-rigged" system is a fraud. It is not certified by ANY agency, organization or company. There are systems out there that he is trying to mimic (e.g. the Pirahna unit) but he is failing miserably. So, please be aware that if a septic contractor says he can install an aerator or anything that can "rejuvinate" your failed/failing septic system, be sure to do your homework and don't just trust people based ONLY on their word.

Some things you can do to protect yourself:
1) make sure this guy does not ONLY work for cash....that is a BIG clue right there that he may not be legit.
2) does he provide an itemized invoice for all the work he does.
3) is he registered/licensed/bonded with the county you live in?
4) has he applied and received a permit (check with you local health department).
5) ask him to provide you with at least 3 references of previous clients, and see how he responds.
6) Does he require a contract be signed, and if so, then make sure to read it over thoroughly - remember, there are literally several dozen septic contractors out thtere, and if you don't like something you read in a contract, then nothing says you have to sign it. Some folks have even asked contractors to revise their contract..doesn't usually work, but you have nothing to lose by asking.