Underground Systems That Work When They Should

Select Excavating & Landscaping designs, installs and replaces septic systems throughout Salem.

If your septic system has failed or you’re building new in Salem, you need a system that’s properly designed and installed to match your soil conditions and property layout. Poorly planned systems can lead to surfacing wastewater, slow household drainage, and costly repairs years sooner than expected. You also need a contractor who understands local inspectors and how septic permits move through Rockingham County.


Select Excavating & Landscaping handles both the design and installation of septic systems for residential and commercial properties in Salem. The process includes site evaluation, soil-based system planning, leach field layout, tank placement, excavation, and coordination with permitting and inspections. Each system is designed and installed to support long-term performance while meeting property-specific needs and local code requirements. The company works on new construction, full replacements, and upgrades to older systems that no longer meet current standards.


If you need a septic system designed, installed, or replaced in Salem, reach out to discuss your property and schedule a site evaluation.

What Changes Between Evaluation and Final Inspection

The process starts with a site evaluation to determine soil conditions, water table depth, and the best location for your tank and leach field. In Salem, soil varies enough that what works on one lot may not be suitable two streets over. Select Excavating & Landscaping uses excavation equipment to prepare the site, set the tank at the correct depth, and install distribution lines according to the engineered layout.

Once the system is installed and inspected, your drains work without backup, wastewater moves underground as it should, and your yard no longer shows wet spots or odor. The system operates quietly and without visible signs when everything is placed correctly and built to code.

All work is coordinated with local inspectors and follows permitting requirements in Rockingham County. The installation timeline depends on excavation conditions, weather, and inspection scheduling. Systems are backfilled only after final approval, and grading is completed to restore drainage across your property.

Most People Ask the Same Things Before They Commit

Septic work involves permitting, excavation, and permanent changes to your property, so it makes sense to ask questions before anything gets scheduled.

How long does a septic system installation take in Salem?

Most residential installations take between five and seven days depending on soil conditions, system size, and inspection timing. Weather and permit approval can extend the schedule.

What happens if my soil does not pass the evaluation?
You may need an engineered system, additional fill material, or a mound-style leach field. Select Excavating & Landscaping will explain your options and work with the engineer to meet code requirements.
Why do some systems fail early?
Poor placement, undersized leach fields, and compacted soil during installation all shorten system life. Proper excavation and layout prevent most early failures.
What is included in a septic replacement?
A full replacement includes removing the old tank, excavating and grading the new system area, installing the tank and leach field, and coordinating inspections. Restoration of the yard surface is completed after approval.
How often does a septic system need pumping after installation?

Most residential systems should be pumped every two to three years depending on household size and water use. Regular pumping helps prevent solids from reaching the leach field.

Select Excavating & Landscaping has worked on septic installations across Rockingham County and understands how soil, water table, and lot size affect system design. If you are ready to move forward or want to talk through your options in Salem, contact the team to schedule an evaluation.