1) Discovery call. Share your address, goals, utility status, and any prior septic reports.

2) Site visit and evaluation. The crew confirms access, measures setbacks, checks slope, and notes soil indicators like vegetation and moisture.

3) Proposal with line items. Expect a written scope that lists excavation, materials, trucking, disposal, and restoration so you know what is included.

4) Design and permitting. For septic projects, a licensed designer prepares drawings and submits to the Macomb County Health Department for review and approval.

5) Scheduling and locating tickets. The contractor orders MISS DIG 811 utility locates and schedules equipment, trucks, and inspections.

6) Construction. Excavation, tank placement, piping, and field installation proceed with compaction and elevation checks at every step.

7) Inspection. The health department inspects before backfill. Corrections are addressed promptly if needed.

8) Backfill and restoration. Final grading, driveway repair, seed, straw, or stone are installed per plan.

9) Walkthrough and handoff. You receive an as-built drawing, maintenance tips, and warranty information.

What to expect during excavation and septic work

Good crews protect utilities, structures, and landscaping. Expect erosion control at the start, daily cleanup, and safe equipment operation. If field conditions change, you should see open communication and written approval before scope adjustments. The team will plan around your schedule and keep inconveniences minimum.

Factors that influence timeline and investment

Every property is different. Access width, haul distance, soil moisture, and required materials influence schedule and cost. The weather can compress or extend the timeline. Septic designs vary by percolation and groundwater levels, which affect tank size, trench count, or the need for pumps. A quality contractor explains choices and provides options so you can balance long term reliability with budget.

How homeowners and builders can prepare

Mark desired house corners, driveway edges, and any trees or features you want to protect. Confirm property lines and easements. Move vehicles, trailers, or stored materials from access paths. If you have prior soil tests, engineering, or a failing system notice, share those documents up front. Preparation saves hours on site and helps the project finish on schedule.

Maintenance after the job is done

After installation, protect your investment. Keep heavy vehicles off the tank and field, divert roof water away, and maintain healthy cover over the leach area. Schedule septic pumping based on household size and usage. Inspect riser lids and alarms seasonally. For grading and drainage, watch how water moves across the yard after big storms and tell your contractor if adjustments would improve performance.