How much deeper should a septic pit be excavated to verify underlying soil characteristics?

To ensure that the underlying soil characteristics are adequately verified, excavating a septic pit by a depth of five feet is considered standard practice. This depth allows for a comprehensive assessment of the soil layers beneath the surface. It enables the evaluator to identify variations in soil texture, composition, drainage capabilities, and moisture content, all of which are crucial for determining the suitability of the site for a septic system.

Understanding the soil profile is vital because it affects the septic system's functionality and longevity. If the soil characteristics are not properly verified, it could lead to problems such as system failure, inadequate drainage, or environmental contamination.

Shallow excavations may not provide a complete picture of the soil characteristics, as they might only reveal surface soils that don't accurately represent the conditions deeper down. Therefore, excavating five feet aids in capturing a more representative sample of the subsurface conditions.