Septic servicing, repairs and installs

Rural homeowners, landlords, property managers, farms and small businesses, plus buyers needing a system checked before a sale.

Call-out and hourly rates for servicing and repairs, quoted prices for installs and drainage field work, and margin on parts. Annual service plans give repeat income.

• Plumbing or drainage trade qualification
• Fault finding and problem solving
• Quoting and basic paperwork
• Clear communication with customers and council

• Plumbing and drainage work needs a state licence, and installs usually need council approval, check your state's licensing body and local council
• Some aerobic systems need servicing by accredited technicians, check local rules
• Public liability insurance, and workers compensation once you hire
• Warranty and compliance responsibility for installs
• Working in trenches and around wastewater, plan for safety

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $5,000 to $25,000, depending on the tools and equipment you need and how much of the work you take on. Pump-outs can be subcontracted to a local truck operator.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $4,000 to $18,000, depending on your area, the mix of servicing, repairs and installs, and how busy you are. The estimate assumes at least about 15 hours a week.

Plumbing and drainage work needs a state licence, and installs usually need council approval, so check with your state licensing body and local council. Some aerobic systems need servicing by accredited technicians, so check local rules.