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Before Placing a Shed

Confirm the footprint of the shed pad does not intersect with drainfields.

What is about to happen?

A shed pad is being leveled (using gravel or concrete) and a heavy outbuilding is being placed or built on top.

What hidden system could be affected?

The septic drainfield (leach field) or underground electrical runs.

What clues or records may help?

Look for older permits or electrical conduit exiting the back of the house heading toward the yard.

What does the visible surface not guarantee?

A drainfield looks exactly like a normal, flat, grassy yard. But the pipes below are fragile and shallow.

What becomes expensive if wrong?

Placing the immense weight of a shed on a drainfield will crush the perforated pipes. This destroys the septic system, requiring a full replacement that can cost upwards of $20,000.

When should local confirmation happen?

When selecting the site for the shed. The footprint must be definitively cleared of the drainfield.

Need to verify?

Contact a Septic Contractor before you cover.

Call 877-735-2796 to connect with local specialists