What Southerland Septic does

Southerland Septic is a septic tank pumping and maintenance company that serves residential and commercial properties. They pump out septic tanks, inspect systems for damage, and handle repairs when tanks or drain fields fail. The company operates in specific regions — primarily in the Southeast — so service availability depends on your location.

When you call Southerland, you are reaching a local service provider, not a national chain. That means response times and pricing are set by the individual location or franchise, not by a corporate office. Before you contact them, confirm they serve your address, because their coverage area is limited to certain counties and municipalities.

Key Takeaways

  • Southerland Septic pumps tanks, inspects systems, and repairs septic components, but you need to confirm they serve your specific address first.
  • Pumping frequency depends on tank size and household use, typically every three to five years for a residential system.
  • The cost of pumping and inspection varies by location and tank depth, so get a quote before scheduling.
  • Regular maintenance through pumping and inspections prevents backups and expensive drain field replacement.

When to call Southerland for pumping

A septic tank fills with solid waste and sludge over time. Once it reaches capacity, solids can flow into the drain field and clog it, which is expensive to repair. Pumping removes that buildup before it causes a backup into your home.

Most residential systems need pumping every three to five years, depending on tank size and how many people live in the house. A family of four in a 1,000-gallon tank will need service more often than a couple in a 1,500-gallon tank. If you have a garbage disposal or run a lot of laundry, the tank fills faster. Southerland can tell you the recommended schedule for your specific system when you call.

Signs that pumping is overdue include slow drains, gurgling sounds in pipes, wet spots over the drain field, or sewage odors near the tank. If you notice any of these, contact Southerland right away — waiting makes the problem worse and more costly to fix.

What happens during a Southerland service visit

When a technician arrives, they locate your tank (usually buried in the yard), open the access port, and use a vacuum truck to pump out the accumulated sludge and scum. The entire process typically takes one to two hours, depending on tank size and how full it is.

During the visit, the technician can inspect the tank for cracks, check the drain field for signs of failure, and look at the outlet baffle — a pipe inside the tank that prevents solids from flowing out. If they spot damage, they will tell you what repairs are needed and what they cost. Some repairs Southerland can do on the spot; others may require a separate appointment or a specialist.

After pumping, ask the technician for a receipt showing the date and tank capacity. Keep this record for your own maintenance log and for any future buyers of your home.

Pricing and what affects the cost

Southerland's pumping cost depends on tank size, how deep it is buried, and your location. A standard 1,000-gallon residential tank in an straightforward-to-access spot may cost less than a 1,500-gallon tank buried deep or in a difficult location. Some areas charge a flat rate; others charge by the gallon pumped.

Inspections, repairs, and emergency after-hours service all carry separate fees. If the technician finds a crack or a failed baffle, repair costs vary widely — from a few hundred dollars for a straightforward fix to several thousand for drain field work. Always ask for an estimate before authorizing repairs.

Contact your local Southerland office directly for a quote, because pricing is not set nationally. They can often give you a ballpark figure over the phone if you tell them your tank size and how long it has been since your last pumping.

How to schedule service with Southerland

Call the Southerland Septic location that serves your area. You will need to provide your address so they can confirm service coverage and locate your property on their map. Tell them when your tank was last pumped (if you know) and whether you have noticed any problems.

Most locations offer same-week or next-week appointments for routine pumping. Emergency service for backups or failures may be available 24/7, though after-hours calls typically cost more. Ask about their cancellation policy in case you need to reschedule.

Maintenance between Southerland visits

Pumping is only part of septic care. Between visits, avoid flushing anything except toilet paper and human waste. Paper towels, wipes labeled "flushable," feminine hygiene products, and grease all damage the system and shorten the time between pumpings.

Limit water use when possible — long showers, multiple loads of laundry in one day, and running the dishwasher frequently all fill the tank faster. If you have a garbage disposal, use it sparingly or not at all; food waste breaks down slowly in a septic tank and creates extra sludge.

Keep heavy vehicles and equipment off the ground above your tank and drain field. The weight can compact soil and damage pipes. Also avoid planting trees or shrubs with deep roots near the system, because roots can crack pipes and clog the drain field.

What to do if Southerland does not serve your area

If Southerland's coverage does not include your address, search for other local septic companies in your county. Most areas have several options. Ask neighbors or your real estate agent for recommendations, and call at least two companies for quotes before deciding.

When comparing providers, ask the same questions: How long have they been in business? Do they offer emergency service? What is included in their inspection? What is their warranty on repairs? A slightly higher price from an established, well-reviewed company is often worth it.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if Southerland Septic serves my address?

Call the Southerland location nearest you and give them your street address. They can tell you when ready whether you are in their service area. If not, they may be able to refer you to a company that does serve your location.

What is the difference between pumping and inspection?

Pumping removes the sludge and scum from inside the tank. Inspection means the technician looks at the tank walls, baffles, and drain field to spot cracks, leaks, or other damage. Some visits include both; others are pumping only. Ask which service you need when you call.

Can I pump my septic tank myself?

No. Septic tanks contain toxic gases and require specialized vacuum equipment to empty safely. Hire a licensed professional like Southerland. Attempting to pump it yourself is dangerous and illegal in most places.

What should I do if my septic backs up on a weekend?

Call Southerland's emergency line if they offer 24/7 service in your area. If they do not, contact another local septic company that does. In the meantime, stop using water — do not run the dishwasher, take showers, or do laundry — to prevent more sewage from backing up into your home.

How long does a septic system last?

A well-maintained tank can last 40 years or more. The drain field typically lasts 20 to 30 years. Regular pumping and inspections by Southerland or another professional extend the life of both. Neglect shortens it significantly.