Septic Tank/Broken Foundation

[Mindy Jensen]

Hey hey hey BiggerPocketeers!

I have a friend who is looking at a house in Wisconsin. Sheboygan area.

The current owners are looking to sell, and there are several problems, including a septic issue: "During the inspection, the pumper indicated the septic tank was deteriorating above the liquid level. ... deterioration is in an aggressive, advanced state..."

And the property has a broken foundation.

Does anyone have any ideas about septic tanks in general and the cost of replacing the tank itself in Wisconsin? I'm not well versed on septic systems, so I'm not sure what else could be wrong. Suggestions on questions to ask is helpful, too.

I'm looking at a ballpark, not exact figure. Is a tank $1,000 or $25,000? 

Thank you!

[Corina Eufinger]

Hi Mindy,

When I helped my sister find a vendor to replace hers in Southern Wisconsin it was about $6k installed. I would put the range between 6k and 9k.   

Make sure any quotes she gets include backfill, electrical work, any tests, fees, or permits (building or otherwise) imposed by local laws. Most anyone that comes out to bid should create a design package which is like blue prints for a septic. 

Hope that helps your friend.