Septic tanks are built to last decades, but they are not permanent. Age, soil movement, corrosion, roots, and damage can eventually make replacement the only safe and compliant option.

At Van Delden, we specialize in evaluating whether a tank can be repaired or whether full replacement is required — and if replacement is needed, we guide you through the permitting, regulatory requirements, and installation process from start to finish.

830-507-2156

Request Service

View Promotions

Common Reasons a Septic Tank Needs Replacement

Not every failing tank looks the same. Some issues are visible, others are discovered during cleaning, locating, or repair work.

Cause	Description
Cracks or Structural Failure	The tank is no longer watertight, compromising structural integrity and system safety.
Corrosion	Material deterioration weakens the tank, creating structural and safety concerns.
Collapsed Dividing Walls	Internal compartments have failed, allowing excess solids to move toward the drainfield.
Excessive Root Intrusion	Roots cannot be fully accessed or removed and will continue to regrow, causing repeated damage.
Ground Shifting	Soil movement has caused the tank to crack, shift, or separate, leading to leaks.
Leaking Tank	Wastewater escaping from the tank or groundwater entering the system.
Crushed Tank	Damage caused by vehicles or heavy equipment resulting in structural failure or safety hazards.
Tank Relocation	Tank must be moved due to construction, property changes, or site modifications.
Outdated Design	Tank no longer meets current regulatory requirements or code standards.
Home Additions	Existing tank is no longer properly sized to support the increased wastewater demand.
Property Additions	System capacity is no longer adequate due to expanded structures or usage.

Permits & Regulations: What You Need to Know

Septic tank replacement always requires a permit.
This work must comply with TCEQ (Texas Commission on Environmental Quality) regulations and local authority requirements.

Why regulations matter

When a tank is replaced, current rules must be reviewed — even if your system was installed decades ago.

In some cases, we can replace the tank only
In other cases, newer regulations may require additional updates
Older systems may be “grandfathered” only to a certain extent
Site conditions (soil, setbacks, tank size, system type) all factor in

This means a simple tank replacement can sometimes snowball into additional required work. We believe in explaining this upfront — not surprising you mid-project.

Our team evaluates your existing system, property layout, and regulatory requirements before work begins so you know what to expect.

Our Septic Tank Replacement Process

We don’t guess — we assess, plan, and execute correctly.

Our process typically includes:

System evaluation and tank condition assessment
Review of existing system type and age
Permit application and regulatory coordination
Tank pumping and proper abandonment
Installation of a new, code-compliant septic tank
Inspection and final approval
Proper backfill and site restoration

If additional work is required due to regulations, we walk you through the options and pricing before proceeding.

Can My Tank Be Replaced Without Replacing the Whole System?

Sometimes — yes.
Sometimes — no.

It depends on:

The age of the system
Current TCEQ rules
Soil conditions
Property setbacks
Type of system (conventional vs aerobic)
Overall system condition

Our job is to find the most reasonable, compliant solution — not automatically push a full system replacement.

Related Services

In some situations, tank replacement is part of a larger solution. These services are often evaluated at the same time:

Why Van Delden?

Specialized septic and aerobic experts — not general contractors
Deep knowledge of TCEQ regulations and local permitting
Honest evaluations with clear expectations
Fully licensed, experienced crews
Long-term focus on system health, not short-term fixes

If your septic tank is failing, damaged, or no longer compliant, we’ll help you understand what’s required, what’s optional, and what’s worth doing — before the work begins.

Septic Tank Replacement Pricing

Septic Tank Replacement — Starting at $9,500

This is turn-key pricing, meaning it typically includes:

Removal and disposal of the existing tank
Installation of a new code-compliant septic tank
Required permitting and inspections
Labor, equipment, and standard materials
Proper backfill and site restoration

Final pricing may vary based on tank size, depth, access, soil conditions, and regulatory requirements. Any pricing adjustments are discussed and approved before work begins.

Important Clarification: Tank Replacement vs. System Replacement

Septic tank replacement and septic system replacement are NOT the same thing.

Tank Replacement
Replacing only the septic tank while keeping the existing drainfield and system components — when allowed by regulations and site conditions.
System Replacement
Replacing the septic tank and additional components such as the drainfield, treatment method, or system type. This is more extensive and priced separately.

In many cases, we can replace just the tank. However, TCEQ regulations and site conditions ultimately determine what is allowed. Older systems may trigger additional requirements when a tank is replaced.

We evaluate this upfront so there are no surprises mid-project.

‍