How Much Does It Cost to Repair a Collapsed Septic Tank?

Any problem with your septic system can be very stressful (and stinky), but a collapsed septic tank is particularly unpleasant. At worst, a member of your family could fall into a collapsed tank, so any sign of sinking or shifting ground around your septic tank requires urgent attention.

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Of course, it's better to avoid a septic tank catastrophe altogether by taking good care of your system. But if the worst happens, knowing the cost of repairs can help you plan your budget. In this guide, we'll outline typical septic tank collapse repair costs, explain your options when your septic tank caves in and explore how to prevent it.

What Does a 'Collapsed Septic Tank' Mean?

Septic tank collapses happen when a septic tank caves in on itself. Pressure is one of the most common causes of a collapsed septic tank. Vehicles, heavy equipment and buildings above your system can exert more pressure than your septic tank can handle, causing it to buckle under the weight. As contaminated water escapes from the tank, it weakens the structure further, often causing the problem to worsen rapidly.

Your septic tank could also collapse if it isn't structurally sound. External damage from tree roots and even plain old age can cause your tank to cave in. Whatever the cause, a collapsed septic system is a hazard, releasing toxic gases into your outdoor environment and creating a void that people or animals could fall inside.

Septic tanks aren't designed to bear weight, so you can reduce the risk of collapse by keeping the area around your system clear. Impinging roots and structural faults won't necessarily be evident above ground, so it's worth having your septic tank regularly inspected to check for issues.

Can You Fix a Collapsed Septic Tank?

Whether it's possible to repair a septic tank depends on the scale of the damage. Repair technicians can sometimes patch up a damaged septic tank. However, this type of repair may not offer a long-term solution, as patch repairs can fail over time.

Repairing a collapsed septic tank can also impact other parts of your septic system, such as the leach field, preventing them from functioning correctly. A septic maintenance professional can inspect your system to determine the best course of action for your needs.

How Much Does Septic Tank Collapse Repair Cost?

According to Fixr, septic tank collapse repair costs between $2,000 and $10,000 (CAD 2,822 and CAD 14,108) on average. Fees typically depend on the extent of the damage, the size and location of your tank and the going rate for labor in your area.

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• What Is a Percolation Test?

Do You Need to Replace a Collapsed Septic Tank?

Your repair specialist may recommend replacing your septic tank altogether if the damage is severe. Repairing a severely damaged septic tank is challenging, and you may need to install a new tank relatively quickly if the repair fails. In this situation, replacing the tank in the first place could save you the cost of unsuccessful repairs.

Replacing your tank may also be the most cost-effective option if your unit is relatively old. Septic tanks typically last for 20 to 40 years. Repairing a tank near the end of its lifespan could end up being more expensive if you'll need to replace it in the next few years.

How Much Does a New Septic Tank Installation Cost?

Consumer Affairs says replacing a septic tank typically costs $6,500 (CAD 9,170) on average, with most homeowners paying between $3,000 and $11,000 (CAD 4,232 and CAD 15,518). These figures include the cost of the tank itself and installation labor.

The cost of a new septic tank depends on the size. The larger your septic tank, the more you'll pay. For example, a 500-gallon tank usually costs $500 to $900 (CAD 705 to CAD 1,270) for the unit alone, while a 1,500-gallon tank can cost as much as $2,500 (CAD 3,527).

The material can also impact the cost of septic tank replacement. Plastic tanks start at $500 (CAD 705), while concrete tanks retail starting at $700 (CAD 988). Replacement fiberglass tanks usually cost at least $1,200 (CAD 1,693).

All CAD conversions are based on the exchange rate on the date of publication.