Soil Borings for Septic Systems
Professional soil evaluation by a Registered Soil Scientist for septic system design, construction, and property development in Northern Indiana.
What Are Soil Borings?
Soil borings are test excavations that allow a registered soil scientist to examine and classify the soil layers beneath your property. Using a hand auger, we pull soil samples to a depth of greater than 64 inches for new construction and more than 74 inches for repairs and replacements to analyze soil texture, structure, color, and drainage characteristics.
Indiana requires a soil evaluation by a registered soil scientist before installing an on-site wastewater treatment system. Sites are evaluated by direct soil analysis—perc tests are no longer utilized by health departments. Our detailed reports identify soil types, seasonal high water tables, and any limiting factors that affect septic system design and placement.
Typically, we perform three borings then furnish our written report to both you and the local health department. If requested, we can also forward the report to your installer, contractor, or developer.
What's Included
- 1Site Visit & Borings
On-site soil evaluation with test borings to depths greater than 64 inches
- 2Soil Analysis
Professional classification of soil types and characteristics
- 3Water Table Assessment
Identification of seasonal high water table depth
- 4Official Report
Detailed report provided to you and the local health department
Who Needs Soil Borings?
Property owners in Indiana need the services of an Indiana Registered Soil Scientist if they're:
- Constructing a new residence or commercial building that will utilize a septic system
- Replacing or repairing an existing septic system
- Developing property or subdividing land
- Evaluating undeveloped land before purchase
Remember, permits are required through the local health department prior to any installation of a septic system. As a soil scientist, we provide soil descriptions that are then reviewed by the health department. The department provides the minimum requirements for a septic system based on the number of bedrooms in the residence.
The Process
1. Schedule Your Evaluation
Contact us with your property address. We'll coordinate with Indiana 811 to have your utilities marked—this is a free service and typically takes about five days.
2. On-Site Borings
Using a hand auger, we pull soil samples to a depth greater than 64 inches for new construction and more than 74 inches for repairs and replacements. Typically three borings are performed to evaluate the site. You're welcome to be present, though it's not required.
3. Soil Analysis
We analyze and classify the soil layers, identifying soil types, drainage characteristics, and any limiting factors for septic system design.
4. Report Delivery
You receive a detailed written report, which we also submit to the local health department. Reports can be forwarded to your installer, contractor, or developer upon request.
Our Services
Residential Soil Borings
Complete soil evaluation for new home construction or septic system replacement on residential properties.
- Three test borings
- Soil type classification
- Water table determination
- Official report to health department
Commercial Evaluation
Soil borings for commercial buildings utilizing septic systems. Includes Indiana Department of Health pre-application.
- Complete soil evaluation
- IDOH pre-application assistance
- Technical data sheet coordination
- 30-60 day IDOH processing
Multi-Site Evaluation
For developers, builders, or properties requiring evaluation of multiple potential system locations.
- Multiple boring locations
- Site comparison
- Volume pricing available
Are Soil Borings the Same as Perc Tests?
No. Perc tests (percolation tests) are no longer utilized by Indiana health departments. Today, sites are evaluated by direct soil analysis performed by a registered soil scientist. This modern approach provides more accurate and comprehensive information about your soil conditions than the old perc test method.
Ready to Schedule Your Soil Evaluation?
Contact us today for a free quote. Utilities can typically be marked within five days.