What percolation test means
A percolation test measures how fast water soaks into the soil at a proposed drainfield site, which decides whether and how a septic system can be built there.
Also called perc test, soil test.
Where it matters on a septic job
Perc results set the size and type of the system, and so most of the price. Do not quote a new system before the soil work is done; give a range and update it after the test.
What it costs
Jobs that involve percolation test are priced in the septic system installation cost guide: about $7,200 typical, usually $3,800 to $11,000. The guide shows its sources and what moves the price. The septic system cost calculator prices a job line by line.
Work it out
- Free calculator: Septic system cost calculator
- Cost guide: Septic system installation cost
- Licensing: Septic installer license rules by state
- Tools, templates and guides: Free septic resources