When building a new home with Chesapeake Homes, depending on the community you choose to build in will determine how you'll manage your wastewater. Two common options are a septic system or connection to municipal sewer system. Understanding the differences between the two can help you make an informed choice that suites your needs and will help you understand how to care for your new construction home. 

Septic System

The EPA says a septic tank is a buried, water-tight container usually made of concrete, fiberglass, or polyethylene. Its job is to hold the wastewater long enough to allow solids to settle down to the bottom, while the oil and grease floats to the top. This allows compartments to prevent those materials from leaving the tank. 

• Independence: A septic system provides independence from municipal services, allowing you to manage your wastewater on site. 
• Lower Monthly Cost: With a septic system, you won't have a monthly sewer bill, potentially saving you money in the long run. 
• Eco-friendly: Properly maintained septic systems can be environmentally friendly, as they naturally treat wastewater on-site without relying on chemical treatment plants. 
• Maintenance: Septic systems do require regular maintenance, including pumping every few years, and avoiding certain items that can clog or damage the system. 
• Future Upkeep: If you do not properly maintain your septic system like mentioned above, it can lead to costly issues including but not limited to unpleasant odor, backups, and costly repairs. 

Municipal Sewer Systems

The EPA defines this system as the collection and treatment of domestic sewage and wastewater from homes/businesses. The material is delivered to a wastewater treatment facility before it is discharged to bodies of water, land, or reused. 

• Convenience: Connection to a municipal sewer system eliminates the need for on-site wastewater management and maintenance. 
• No Maintenance: With a sewer system you will not have to worry about maintaining a septic system or scheduling their regular pump-outs. 
• Monthly Fees: Homeowners on a sewer system can expect to pay monthly sewer fees, which can vary depending on your location and usage. 
• Reliability: Sewer systems are typically more reliable do to maintenance being handled by the municipality. 
• Service: Sewer lines can experience blockages or backups, leading to the possible service interruptions. However, those issues are handled by the municipality giving less control over your wastewater. 

Ultimately, both sewer and septic are both regularly used and reliable wastewater management systems. Each has requirements on space, location, and costs all on the front end of your Chesapeake Homes build, that our team of experts work through to make sure you are provided with the best option for your community.

Rest assured no matter what, you will be provided with efficient and reliable wastewater management for years to come in your new construction home.