Frequently asked questions
Is this service free?
Yes, for homeowners. Chattanooga Septic Quotes passes your request to independent local septic companies, and those companies may pay us for referrals. You pay the company you hire, never us.
Are you a septic company?
No. Chattanooga Septic Quotes is a referral service. We do not pump tanks, make repairs, send trucks or set prices. The independent companies that contact you are responsible for their quotes and work.
How much does septic pumping cost?
Angi puts the 2026 national average at $428 (most pay $292 to $565). Tank size and access change the price most: about $325 to $700 for a 1,000-gallon tank.
How often should I pump my septic tank?
The EPA says a typical household tank is pumped every three to five years and the system should be inspected at least every three years. Systems with pumps or float switches should be inspected about once a year.
What does a drain field cost to fix or replace?
Angi lists drain field repairs at $2,000 to $15,000 and replacing the tank and drain field at $5,000 to $12,000 (average $6,000).
Who issues septic permits in Hamilton County?
Hamilton County Groundwater Protection (423-209-7876, gwp@hamiltontn.gov), following TDEC rules. A new system or modification is $440 and a repair permit is $40. Applications are online.
Who issues septic permits in Catoosa or Walker County, Georgia?
The county Environmental Health office, part of Northwest Georgia Public Health: Catoosa (706) 406-2030, Walker (706) 639-2574.
Do I need a septic inspection to sell my house?
We did not find a Tennessee or Georgia rule requiring one at every sale, but a lender or buyer may ask. In Catoosa and Walker counties, a loan closing or refinance can trigger an existing-system evaluation by Environmental Health ($125 in Catoosa, $75 in Walker).
Can I switch from septic to sewer?
Only where a sewer line is available. In most of Hamilton County outside Chattanooga, Collegedale and Walden that is WWTA (423-209-7842), and WWTA says it can require you to connect when sewer is available. Signal Mountain is under a state moratorium on new sewer connections.
Does anyone need to call 811 before septic work?
Yes, for digging. Tennessee 811 requires a ticket at least 3 working days ahead; Georgia 811 asks for 3 business days.
Who will contact me, and how fast?
One or more independent local septic companies serving your area. Response time depends on the company; we do not promise a time.
Can I stop calls or texts?
Yes. Reply STOP to any text, tell the caller, or email us and we will stop sharing your request.
Sources
- Angi, How Much Does It Cost to Pump a Septic Tank? (2026 data, updated Oct 14, 2026)
- Angi, How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Septic Tank and Drain Field? (updated Oct 29, 2026)
- U.S. EPA, How to Care for Your Septic System
- Hamilton County, Development Services: Groundwater Protection (permits and fees)
- Northwest Georgia Public Health, Existing System Evaluations (pamphlet, PDF)
- Catoosa County Health Department, Environmental Health fee schedule (PDF)
- Walker County Health Department, Environmental Health fee schedule (PDF)
- Hamilton County WWTA, About the WWTA
- Hamilton County WWTA, Frequently Asked Questions
- Hamilton County WWTA, Community Questions Regarding the Signal Mountain Project
- Tennessee 811, FAQ
- Georgia 811, The 811 Process
Prices are national ranges published by the sources above, not quotes. Your price depends on the system, access and timing; local companies quote after seeing the job.