Septic System Warranty: Why Do I Need One?

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Select Editorial Team
6 Mins Read May 23,2022 Home Warranty
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Water pooling around the top of a septic system. A septic system warranty can help with repair costs and prevent this from happening.
Key Takeaways
  • Why septic coverage is essential: A septic system home warranty covers costly repairs when pumps, tanks, or ejectors fail unexpectedly.
  • What’s covered: Plans typically repair the aerobic pump, sewage ejector, jet pump, and septic tank components.
  • What’s excluded: Coverage rarely includes damage from neglect, pre-existing issues, or drain field replacement.
  • System lifespan: Most septic systems last 15 to 40 years with proper maintenance and regular pumping.
  • Getting coverage: Requesting a quote takes minutes, and claims focus on repair rather than full replacement.

Septic systems are essential for homeowners living in regions without centralized sewer systems. They make it possible to treat the wastewater produced daily within a home. But they can fail without warning. A septic system home warranty protects your household from these unexpected repair and replacement costs. Repairs can reach thousands of dollars, and warranty coverage limits your financial exposure.

This guide explains what a septic system warranty covers, what it excludes, and how to secure coverage today.

Why should I get a septic system warranty?

As per the HomeGuide Septic Repair Cost Guide, homeowners can expect septic tank repair costs to range from $600 to $3,000 on average. Smaller repairs, including pump replacement, distribution box repairs, or root removal, usually cost between $500 and $1,500. Major repairs involving sewer lines, septic tank replacement, or drain field rejuvenation can exceed $5,000, depending on the extent of the damage.

Angi’s septic system repair cost estimates also indicate that repair expenses vary considerably based on the type of septic system, tank material, and the complexity of the work. Labor charges alone typically range from $125 to $250 per hour.

Systems like mound systems and aerobic treatment units generally cost more to repair or replace than conventional septic systems. Plastic tanks are usually the most affordable, with repairs starting around $150 and replacements costing $500–$2,000. Fiberglass tanks are more expensive, with repairs beginning at $750 and replacement costs ranging from $1,200–$7,500, excluding labor.

Fortunately, a home warranty plan with septic system coverage can take care of repair or replacement costs when your system is struggling. At most, you’ll pay a small service fee while your warranty provider takes care of the rest.

This kind of coverage for your septic system can mean the difference between a minor inconvenience and an unbearable situation. Don’t ignore the bad omens of a septic system failure. We promise that, if ignored, they’ll only get worse.

What does a home warranty cover for septic systems?

A warranty covers the repair or replacement of components that fail because of normal wear and tear or mechanical breakdowns. Depending on your plan, coverage may include:

  • Aerobic pump
  • Sewage ejector pump
  • Jet pump
  • Septic tank
  • Line repairs

If you notice slow drains, sewage backups, unusual odors, or other signs of a septic system problem, submit a service request promptly to help prevent further damage. Always review your contract for covered components, exclusions, and coverage limits, as terms may vary by plan.

Wondering if your septic system qualifies for coverage?

Every home is different, and eligibility depends on your system’s age, condition, and location. Our team can walk you through your options in minutes.

Call 800-670-8931.

What’s Not Included in a Home Warranty for a Septic System?

Homeowners often assume every septic issue qualifies for warranty coverage, but that isn’t accurate. Most septic system home warranty plans exclude pre-existing conditions the provider wasn’t aware of when your plan started.

  • Drain fields and leach fields typically fall outside standard coverage, since these components depend on soil conditions rather than mechanical parts.
  • Damage caused by tree roots, improper installation, or code violations usually isn’t covered either.
  • Coverage also excludes problems tied to neglected maintenance, similar to how standard homeowner’s insurance treats gradual septic damage.

According to Bankrate, insurers exclude septic damage caused by poor installation, design flaws, or inadequate upkeep. Warranty providers apply similar logic, since ongoing upkeep remains the homeowner’s responsibility.

Knowing these exclusions upfront helps you set realistic expectations for your septic system warranty. Always review your service agreement for the exact terms of your coverage.

How long will a septic system last?

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, most septic systems last between 15 and 40 years. However, proper care and maintenance can greatly extend its life and may save you the hassle of a sooner-than-expected malfunction.

In regions like New Hope, where property sizes and soil conditions can directly impact septic system performance, regular upkeep becomes even more important. Homeowners often pair maintenance with a reliable home warranty service in New Hope to stay protected against unexpected breakdowns.

Of course, when something inevitably breaks down, your home warranty is here to help!

Why is septic system care important?

It’s important because your septic system is an essential part of your home that allows you to use your shower, toilet, sinks, and even your washing machine.

When there’s an issue with your septic system, you might use the bathroom only to find the water is backing up. Maybe your bathtub is draining more slowly when you take a shower. You may begin to notice strange odors in and around your home. You might even discover raw sewage surfacing in your yard.

By the time puddles start forming throughout your lawn, you have a problem. Thankfully, proper maintenance and a home with septic system coverage can reduce the chances of failure while protecting you from repair or replacement costs in a worst-case scenario.

Leave the mess to us.

Septic system failures can be unpleasant and expensive. Get coverage that helps protect key components from covered mechanical breakdowns.

Explore Septic Coverage

What will ruin a septic system?

When it comes to septic system care, there’s a lot to consider. Most of all, you need to be mindful of what makes its way down the drains in your house.

  • System cloggers, such as wipes, diapers, cat litter, fats, grease, cigarette butts, and similar household items can build up in your system and never clear out.
  • Treatment killers, including certain chemicals, cleaners, and anti-bacterial soaps, can be devastating to the ecosystem within your septic tank and should be avoided at all costs.
  • Trees and bushes near your septic tank can cause serious problems as roots dig into the system, clogging it and causing it to fail.

You should keep the area above and around your septic drain field clear and free of larger plants and heavy objects. Water should be directed away from it, as floods and standing water can cause problems over time.

What is the most common cause of septic system failure?

The EPA states the most common reason for septic system failure is “inappropriate design or poor maintenance.”
By failing to care for one’s septic system, homeowners are asking for trouble. Septic tanks should be pumped every three to five years, and you should never flush objects or chemicals that damage septic systems down your home’s drains.

How can I get septic system warranty coverage?

Securing coverage for your septic system is easy! Just request a quote, and our experts will get back to you with all the info you need to make the best decision for your home.

Still not sure about home warranty and septic system coverage? You may be surprised by how many systems and appliances you can protect. Learn what a home warranty covers to see just how much protection you’re getting. Connect with us today at 800-670-8931.

How Do I File a Septic System Home Warranty Claim?

Filing a claim with Select is simple and straightforward. Log into your customer portal account or call our claims team once you notice a problem. Describe the septic issue, and we’ll schedule a trained technician to inspect your system.

Once your claim is submitted, our technician diagnoses the issue and completes covered repairs. You’ll typically pay only your standard service fee for the visit. Keep in mind that claims apply to repairs, not full system replacement, unless your plan states otherwise.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which companies offer septic system home warranty plans in the US?

Several home warranty providers offer septic system coverage, usually as an optional add-on. These include Select Home Warranty and other national providers. Coverage, service fees, and covered components vary by company, so compare plan details before purchasing.

Is septic system coverage included in standard home warranties?

Usually, no. Most standard plans do not automatically include septic system coverage. Instead, it is offered as an optional add-on that can be added to eligible plans for an additional monthly or annual cost.

How much does a home warranty with septic coverage cost?

The cost depends on the provider and the plan you choose. In most cases, septic system coverage is available as an optional add-on rather than part of a standard plan. The final price varies based on the provider, coverage level, service fee, and any additional options you select.

Does a septic system home warranty cover septic tank pumping?

Generally, no. Routine maintenance services such as septic tank pumping, cleaning, and inspections are homeowner responsibilities and are typically excluded from coverage. A septic system warranty primarily covers eligible mechanical failures of covered components.

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