Innovative Technology:
While system sizing and configuration has changed slightly since 1967 (when NH started reviewing septic systems), you
can still install many of the same types of systems, such as; stone & pipe, concrete chambers, dry wells, etc. In many
cases these systems work very well (there is a reason they have been around for so long). However, in some cases these
systems simply don't fit into the design concept for a lot, there isn't enough room to physically install one of the
conventional systems, or sometimes the soil conditions are very poor and will not provide adequate treatment. No
matter what your reasons are, if you are looking for more options there are hundreds (if not thousands) of companies
world wide that are working on various innovative technologies that will change the way we look at septic systems.
While the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services must approve all new products before they can be
used for septic systems, there are many different options currently available (and new products are introduced almost
every year). Some systems can result in a leach field that is up to 90% smaller than a conventional stone & pipe,
discharge treated waste water that is cleaner than some municipal plants, and in many cases can be just as cost effective.
We stay up to date on current and proposed innovative technologies in New Hampshire. This allows us to provide our
Clients with many different options for their project, and the background information needed for them to make informed
decisions.
Waterfront Site Assessments:
State law requires an owner of any developed waterfront property to provide a potential buyer with a waterfront site
assessment prior to executing a purchase and sales agreement. The assessment must be conducted by a New Hampshire
permitted septic designer. The purpose of the assessment is to determine if the property meets the current standards for
septic systems established by the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services, Subsurface Systems Bureau.
The process involves research for any existing plans and/or permits, an on-site inspection of the property, a basic
survey, drafting a basic existing conditions plan, filling out state forms, and any miscellaneous information or
documents that may be needed to determine the status of the property.
Septic Systems
General Information:
Any residential or commercial building with running water
is required to have a legal way to discharge waste water. In
some communities this is handled by a town or city sewer
system. However, in most of New Hampshire an individual
sewage disposal system (septic system) is required. These
systems are sized based on soil conditions and the
proposed use. The New Hampshire Department of
Environmental Services, Subsurface Systems Bureau has
been reviewing, inspecting, and permitting septic systems
since 1967, and is involved in approximately 80-85% of all
development within the state.
Problem Lots:
While there is still some wonderful land available for
development in New Hampshire, it does seem as though
more and more projects are being built on what could be
considered "problem lots". Sometimes the choice to
develop these lots comes down to price, but in many cases
it is the location that really matters to our Clients. No
matter what the reasons are for choosing the property,
these lots often can not meet all current regulations due to;
poor soil conditions, wetlands, lot dimensions, zoning, etc.
In many cases these lots can be developed, but they may
require some innovative design work, new technologies,
and additional town, state, or federal permitting. Due to
our high success rate and customer word of mouth, we are
seeing more and more "problem lot" projects. We often
consult on projects for other Septic Designers who are
having difficulties obtaining permits, and in many cases
end up having future "problem lot" projects referred to us
from the beginning. Obviously we can not guarantee that
every lot can be developed. However, we will always take
the time to review your project, go over all of your
options, and do all we can to ensure the best possible
outcome.