Rhode Island Septic & Cesspool Questions

Is RISepticQuotes.com a septic company?

No. We're a request service. We don't design, install, inspect, or pump systems. We review requests and work to connect property owners with licensed Rhode Island professionals who do.

Is it free?

Yes. There's no charge to send a request and no obligation to hire anyone. No septic company pays us today. In the future, companies may pay to receive requests, which is how the site would stay free.

I just bought a house with a cesspool. How long do I have?

One year from your closing date to take the cesspool out of service, under the Rhode Island Cesspool Act. Some towns have their own, stricter deadlines.

Does a working cesspool still have to go?

If the property is sold or transferred, yes. The law applies whether or not the cesspool has failed.

Are any transfers exempt?

Certain family transfers are, such as between spouses, between parents and children, or between siblings. Check with your attorney.

What does replacing a cesspool cost?

DEM puts the average at about $10,000 to $15,000 for a conventional septic system. Near the Salt Ponds or the Narrow River, an advanced nitrogen-reducing system is required and costs more.

What does a new septic system cost?

DEM's figures are typically $10,000 to $18,000 for a conventional system and roughly $23,000 to $32,000 for an innovative or alternative technology system.

Can I connect to the sewer instead?

If a sewer line is available, yes. A tie-in typically costs $2,000 to $4,000, and the old system has to be properly abandoned.

Are there loans?

Yes. The Community Septic System Loan Program offers low-interest loans of up to $25,000 in most programs, in 19 participating communities. A separate fund helps with sewer tie-ins in some towns. You apply through your town.

Does my town require inspections?

Some do. North Kingstown, Charlestown, Portsmouth, South Kingstown, Jamestown, Tiverton, and New Shoreham all require inspections at regular intervals. Others only encourage them. Ask your town hall.

How often should I pump?

The EPA's general guidance is every three to five years. Some towns set their own schedule; Narragansett, for example, requires pumping at least every four years.

How fast will I hear something?

A confirmation email arrives right away. After that we review your request and work to connect you with a professional. We can't promise if or when a company will follow up.