Septic questions and costs

Look for a sewer charge on your water bill. If you still can't tell, call Hot Springs Utilities at 501-321-6654 with your address. City sewer reaches a lot of the county, so being outside town doesn't mean you're on septic.

The EPA says every three to five years for most houses, with an inspection about every three. A small tank or a full house means sooner.

Mostly tank size, how hard the lid is to get to, and whether it has to be dug up. Distance matters too. The company that calls you back will price it for your house.

Yes. New systems, replacements and repairs all need a permit from your county health unit. In Garland County that's the Garland County Health Unit, 1425 Malvern Ave, Hot Springs, 501-624-3394. Emergency repairs can start first, but the permit has to follow within 10 working days.

Look them up on the Arkansas Department of Health search at onsitewastewater.adh.arkansas.gov. Pumpers need a Septic Tank Cleaner license, and their name and license number have to be on the side of the truck.

Arkansas doesn't require one. A regular home inspection doesn't cover septic either, so buyers who want one have to order it separately.

Call your county health unit (in Garland County, 501-624-3394) and ask for the Onsite Environmental Specialist. Have the year built, subdivision and lot number handy.

A licensed septic company that works your part of the Hot Springs area. This site just connects you. We don't do the work.