Most of Lakewood is connected to the city sewer system, since the housing stock here was built as a planned, fully-serviced suburb from the start. Septic systems are the exception rather than the rule in this city, typically found on a small number of older or unusually situated properties rather than being common citywide.
For the properties that do have one, we provide standard septic tank pumping on a scheduled basis, along with an inspection of the tank's general condition while we're there. If a septic issue turns out to be a drain field problem rather than simply needing a pump-out, we'll explain what that means and what the realistic next steps look like.
If you're not sure whether your property is on septic or connected to the city sewer, that's worth confirming before assuming either way. A quick check of your property records or a look at where your drain lines actually run can settle the question, and we can help determine this during any visit if you're uncertain.
Why Call Us For This
Scheduled Or Emergency Service
Routine pumping on your schedule, or prompt response if a tank is backing up.
Tank Condition Inspection
A general check of the tank's condition included with every pumping visit.
Honest Assessment
If a drain field issue is the real problem, we'll say so rather than just pump and move on.
Upfront Pricing
A flat price before pumping begins.
Signs You Need This Service
Slow Drains Throughout The House
Can indicate a septic tank nearing capacity, worth checking before it becomes a backup.
Sewage Odor Near The Tank Or Drain Field
Worth prompt attention, since it can indicate the tank needs pumping or has a developing issue.
Standing Water Or Unusually Green Grass Over The Drain Field
A sign the drain field may not be processing wastewater properly.
It's Simply Been Several Years Since The Last Pumping
Regular pumping on a multi-year schedule is standard septic maintenance regardless of visible symptoms.
Due For Septic Pumping?
Scheduled service with a tank condition check included.
How It Works
Locate
We find and access the tank, including locating the lid if it isn't already exposed.
Pump
Standard pump-out of tank contents.
Inspect
A general check of the tank's condition and any visible issues.
Advise
Honest notes on when the next pumping should happen and any concerns worth watching.
What This Typically Costs
Depends on tank size and accessibility. Quoted before pumping begins.
Common Questions
A common general guideline is every three to five years for an average household, though usage and tank size both affect the actual interval. We can advise based on your specific tank and household size.
No, the large majority of the city is connected to municipal sewer service. Septic systems here are the exception, typically on a small number of older or unusually situated properties.
A septic system treats wastewater on the property itself, in a tank and drain field, while a sewer connection sends wastewater to the municipal system. The symptoms can look similar, slow drains and backups, but the underlying systems and fixes are different.
Yes, a pre-purchase inspection and pumping is a reasonable step for any home with a septic system, since it gives you a clear picture of the tank's actual condition.
It's transported and disposed of at a licensed treatment facility in accordance with local and state waste-handling regulations, not simply discarded on-site, which is standard practice across the septic service industry.
If your property is on municipal sewer rather than septic and you're dealing with a backup, see sewer line repair instead. Homeowners in Torrance's older, larger-lot neighborhoods, where a septic system is somewhat more likely to still be in use, can check our Torrance service page for area details.