Homeownership comes with many responsibilities, one of which is ensuring that your septic system is functioning properly. But what happens when your septic system is struggling and/or needs to be replaced? Here’s how you can identify the need for a septic system replacement and the resources available to help you manage the process.
How do I know if my septic system should be replaced?
Recognizing when your septic system needs to be serviced by a professional or replaced is crucial for preventing home and environmental hazards. If you have your system serviced regularly, your inspector can help you gauge its remaining life expectancy. Here are some key indicators that you may need a septic system replacement:
- Sewage backups. If your toilets and drains are backing up or you notice sewage odors in your house or yard, it could signal a failing system.
- Pooling water. Pools of water over your drain field, especially after light rain or during dry seasons, suggest that the system is not receiving and treating wastewater properly.
- Poor drainage. Sinks and tubs that consistently drain slowly despite regular maintenance can indicate issues with the septic system’s drainage.
- Increased need for maintenance. Needing more frequent pumping or repairs can also be a sign of a failing septic system.
How can I get help paying for a new septic system?
Replacing a septic system can be costly, and overwhelming, but there are many federal and state funding resources that can help homeowners navigate this process affordably.
Federal resources
Multiple federal and state programs provide support for septic system replacement projects:
- Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) programs. The EPA has a Clean Water State Revolving Fund that finances environmental and water infrastructure projects in all 50 states. Each state-level fund functions like a bank, providing low-interest loans to eligible recipients.
- U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) programs. The USDA offers several grants and loans to rural homeowners to repair or replace septic systems.
State resources
State-specific programs and green banks also play a crucial role in helping homeowners replace their septic systems affordably. While these programs vary in name and structure, they typically include financial assistance and technical support, and they can connect homeowners with authorized septic installation contractors. Partnering with a state program helps to ensure your replacement process complies with all state and local regulations.
- The Septic Replacement Loan Program. Created from a partnership between Michigan Saves and the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, this program provides low-interest financing to Michigan homeowners to replace failing or near-failing septic systems. Homeowners can access two loan tiers by working with a Michigan Saves authorized septic installation contractor. Loans will range from $1,000 to $50,000 per project, and actual rates, terms, and loan amounts will vary.
- Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS)/State Emergency Relief program. MDHHS assists with home repairs to correct unsafe conditions and restore essential services through the State Emergency Relief program. Eligible home repairs may include repair or replacement of a nonfunctioning furnace, hot water heater, or septic system.
- Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) Property Improvement Program. MSHDA offers loans for homeowners through the Property Improvement Program. Improvements must substantially protect or improve the basic livability of a single-family or manufactured home and include septic and sewer replacements.
- Neighborhood Impact Program. Michigan banks and credit unions that are members of the Federal Home Loan Bank of Indianapolis can assist homeowners with repairs through Neighborhood Impact Program grants of up to $7,500.
- Local health department or conservation district. Your area’s health department or conservation district can help you learn about more resources available to help with your septic replacement.
Get financing for septic system replacement with Michigan Saves’ Septic Replacement Loan Program
Need to replace your septic system? Michigan Saves is your trusted financial partner in accessing affordable, customized home solutions that enhance your living experience, reduce your energy bills, and address other essential needs, like lead abatement and septic system replacement. Get started by visiting the Septic Replacement Loan Program page and selecting an authorized contractor.
