Septic Tank Investment In Belize: Understanding The Cost

The cost of installing a septic tank in Belize varies depending on the location and the type of system chosen. In Ladyville, for example, the cost is around $2,000 BZD, while in other areas, it can range from $2,000 to $3,000 BZD, or $1,000 to $1,500 USD. This typically includes the installation of the septic tank and a soakaway, but it is unclear whether this includes hooking up the plumbing.

There are different types of septic tank systems available in Belize, including concrete, brick, fibreglass, or polyethylene tanks. Some systems are more suitable for certain locations than others, and it is important to consider factors such as the size of the lot and access to sewer systems when choosing a septic tank.

Additionally, there are alternative options to traditional septic tanks, such as biodigester systems and composting toilets, which may be more suitable for some homeowners in Belize.

Cost of a septic tank in Belize

The cost of a septic tank in Belize varies depending on the location and the type of system installed. In Ladyville, for example, the cost of installing a septic tank and soakaway is around $2,000 BZD, while in Corozal it can range from $2,000 to $3,000 BZD, or $1,000 to $1,500 USD. This includes the construction of the septic tank beforehand out of concrete, which is typically about 8 feet long and 4 feet wide. The cost of installation also includes digging and transportation to the property.

It's important to note that the cost of a septic tank system in Belize can vary depending on the size of the lot, the type of system chosen, and the specific requirements of the property. Additionally, the cost of plumbing and hooking up the system may not always be included in the initial installation price.

Some property owners in Belize opt for alternative systems such as biodigesters or aerobic septic systems, which can offer advantages such as water recycling and lower maintenance. These systems typically require additional equipment and can have different cost structures than traditional septic tanks.

When budgeting for a septic tank in Belize, it is advisable to contact multiple installers and get quotes to ensure you are getting the best value for your specific needs.

Septic tank installation process

The installation of a septic tank in Belize involves several steps and considerations to ensure a smooth and compliant process. Here is a detailed guide on the septic tank installation process:

Planning and Design

Before beginning the installation, it is crucial to perform a site survey and a percolation (soil) test to determine the system's design and layout. This includes assessing factors such as the intended purpose, water usage, the location of wells, soil type, and its ability to drain and filter wastewater. Obtaining the necessary permits and approvals from the local health department is also essential before proceeding.

Equipment and Tools

Once the design is finalised, gather the required equipment and tools, including a laser transit and grade pole, PVC pipes and fittings, perforated pipes, vent and test caps, a saw, a hammer drill, hydraulic cement, washed stone or gravel, tape measures, septic fabric, a septic tank and risers, sealant, and a distribution box.

Excavation

Excavation is a significant aspect of the installation process. You will need to dig a hole for the septic tank, ensuring it is deep enough and complies with local regulations. The hole should be approximately 3.5 to 4 feet deep, depending on when the worker hits water. Additionally, the septic tank should be placed around 15 feet out from the exterior wall of the house, maintaining a positive flow between the tank and the drain field.

Pipe Installation

Install the pipes with the appropriate pitch to facilitate the flow of wastewater from the building to the septic tank. Use the required materials, such as PVC pipes, fittings, and perforated pipes, ensuring they meet local health and safety standards. Seal any holes in the building walls with hydraulic cement.

Tank Placement

Place the septic tank in the excavated hole, ensuring it is level and positioned correctly relative to the pipes. The tank should be made of concrete, plastic, or fiberglass, depending on your preference and local regulations. Concrete tanks are durable and rust-proof, while fiberglass tanks are stronger than plastic ones but can be affected by high water tables.

Leach Field Preparation

Design and excavate the leach field as per the approved plans. The leach field is crucial for further treating the wastewater before it returns to the water table. Remember to maintain the proper slope and direction of flow toward the leach field. Cover the pipes in the leach field with gravel or washed stone to hold them in place and facilitate drainage.

Final Checks and Backfilling

Before backfilling the excavated areas, ensure you have received approval from the health inspector. Cover the pipes, tank, and leach field with the required materials, such as filter fabric, newspaper, straw, or untreated building paper. This step is essential to comply with local regulations and protect the system.

Additional Considerations

• Alternative septic systems may include a pump chamber or dosing tank to move the effluent to the drain field. These systems are usually sealed and require electrical installations by a licensed electrician.
• Regular maintenance of your septic tank is crucial. Have it inspected and pumped every three to five years by a professional to prevent solid waste buildup and potential groundwater contamination.
• Consider factors such as the number of bedrooms in your home when determining the size of your septic tank. Larger homes will require bigger tanks to provide adequate drainage.
• Labor costs can vary depending on the complexity of the installation and the region. Typically, labor accounts for 50-70% of the total installation cost.

Alternative options to septic tanks

There are a variety of alternative options to septic tanks, which can be used depending on the soil type, site conditions, and usage levels. Here are some of the alternatives:

• Aerobic Treatment System: This system uses an aerobic process to treat the effluent, typically using a multi-chamber concrete tank placed underground. The most complex systems contain four chambers to collect, aerate, purify, and pump the effluent. Aerobic bacteria in the leach field require adequate contact with air to function properly.
• Drip Distribution/Irrigation: This system uses a pump to distribute effluent through a filtering device to an array of shallow drip tubes spread over a large area. A pretreatment unit is usually required to deliver relatively clean water to the system.
• Constructed Wetlands: For those who want to play an active role in recycling their wastewater, constructed wetlands can work in almost any type of soil. The system uses a man-made shallow pond, which is lined and filled with rock, tire chippings, or other media. The media provides a habitat for special plants that treat wastewater and provide a pleasant environment.
• Composting Toilets: These toilets are currently allowed in a dozen or so states under certain conditions, subject to approval by the local health department. Each state and local jurisdiction has its own regulations in compliance with state laws.
• Holding Tank: Holding tanks are sealed tanks that store household waste and wastewater until the tank can be pumped out by a septic pumping company. Most jurisdictions do not permit septic holding tanks as a permanent wastewater handling method for full-time residences.
• Incinerator Toilets: Incinerating toilets use electricity or gas to burn the waste placed into these systems. Like chemical toilets and holding tanks, they have limited capacity and are used where water is not available or must be conserved.
• Chemical Toilets: Chemical toilets use a chemically treated reservoir located directly below the toilet seat to reduce odours and perform partial disinfection of the waste. They have limited storage capacity and must be pumped and periodically cleaned by a septic company.

Septic tank maintenance

Inspect and Pump Frequently

The average household septic system should be inspected at least every three years by a septic service professional. Household septic tanks are typically pumped every three to five years. The frequency of pumping also depends on the size of the tank, the number of people living in the home, and the type of waste that is put into the septic system. For instance, a garbage disposal unit increases the amount of solid waste, resulting in more frequent pumping.

Use Water Efficiently

The average indoor water use in a typical single-family home can be as much as 70 gallons per individual per day. Efficient water use improves the operation of a septic system and reduces the risk of malfunctions. High-efficiency toilets, faucet aerators, high-efficiency showerheads, and selecting the proper load size for laundry help reduce water waste.

Properly Dispose of Waste

An easy rule of thumb is to only flush human waste and toilet paper. Never flush cooking grease or oil, non-flushable wipes, photographic solutions, feminine hygiene products, or household chemicals. These can kill the living organisms in your septic system that treat household waste.

Maintain Your Drainfield

Do not park or drive on your drainfield as this can damage the pipes. Keep roof drains, sump pumps, and other rainwater drainage systems away from your drainfield area. Excess water slows down or stops the wastewater treatment process. Plant trees the appropriate distance from your drainfield to keep roots from growing into your septic system.

Clearly Mark Off and Maintain the Leach Field

The leach field is a sensitive part of your septic system. Mark off the area and inform guests that it cannot support heavy loads. Keep the plant life and drainage in check. Divert roof water from the leach field and remove any trees, bushes, or shrubs so that the roots don't grow into the pipes. However, you can and should grow grass on the leach field to reduce flooding and prevent erosion.

Use a Bacteria Additive

The waste that comes from the home is filtered by weight, allowing solids to sink to the bottom of the tank and releasing liquid waste to the leach field. Bacteria in the system break down the remaining waste. However, these bacteria are vulnerable to powerful cleaning solutions, so you can add new bacteria through certain organic additives to break down unnatural substances.

Install an Effluent Filter

An effluent filter creates a barrier that keeps solids out of the leach field dispersal system, helping to increase its life and prevent clogs. The filter functions for about three to five years before it needs to be cleaned, ideally at the same time as the tank is pumped.

Keep Accurate Maintenance Records

Keep clear, concise, and detailed maintenance records. This helps you decide on the amount and frequency of bacteria additives and highlights any problems before they become unmanageable. Comprehensive maintenance records can also make your home more appealing to prospective buyers.

Septic tank insurance

Septic tank systems in Belize can cost between $1,000 and $3,000 BZD, or $500 and $1,500 USD. The cost varies depending on the location and whether transportation is required.

Now, onto the topic of septic tank insurance.

Am I Covered?

You are likely already covered for septic tank insurance under your existing buildings insurance policy, even if you are unaware of it. Most property owners are covered under the 'Accidental damage to underground services' section of their buildings insurance policy. If your policy does not specify this, find the Accidental Damage section of the buildings policy and read the details. If it does not state that drainage tanks and pipes are excluded, then you are likely covered.

Any buildings insurance policy covers you for damage to your property. It does not cover problems caused by a lack of maintenance or an old septic tank. The following are the most common septic tank problems, with the first six usually covered by buildings insurance policies:

• Hydrostatic pressure
• Age of the septic tank
• Incorrect installation or faulty workmanship
• A change in ground conditions
• Water ingress through a split or crack
• Root damage to a tank from nearby trees or shrubs
• Missing or damaged Tee pipes
• Cracked or bending tanks
• Splits or fractures within the walls of the tank

Most policies provide cover for accidental damage. However, some insurers sell policies where you must pay extra for this cover or offer it as a premium type of cover.

I'm Not Covered! What Do I Do?

If you are not covered, don't panic. You can call your insurer to add accidental damage cover to your policy. If your policy excludes septic tanks, you should be able to cancel and find a new insurer, as long as your system is currently working as it should be.

My New Property Has Septic Tank Problems – Am I Covered?

If you have noticed septic tank problems as soon as you have moved into a new property, you are probably not covered by your buildings insurance. The only exception is if you had a thorough septic tank inspection or Home Buyer Survey carried out when you purchased the property, which confirmed there were no issues.

How to Make a Claim

It is vital that you do not contact your insurance company directly, as this can often invalidate your claim. Instead, hire a reputable Drainage Claims Management Agency to handle your claim for you. They will be familiar with the technicalities of insurance documents and will be able to negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf.

Frequently asked questions