Assessing Septic Service Availability and Pricing across Coastal South Carolina

Authors

Dawoon Jeong, Clemson UniversityFollow
Amy E. Scaroni, Clemson UniversityFollow
Marzieh Motallebi, Clemson UniversityFollow

Article Type

Full Research Article – Regular Issue

Volume

10

Issue

1

Abstract

Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems (OWTS), also known as septic systems, are widely used across the United States, particularly in rural and coastal areas that lack access to centralized sewer infrastructure. Regular maintenance, such as pump-outs, is essential for preserving system performance and protecting environmental health. This study examines the availability, pricing, and accessibility of septic services in coastal South Carolina, a region increasingly impacted by environmental pressures, including tidal flooding, rising sea levels, and frequent storms. Drawing on survey data from both septic service providers and users, we identify key barriers to effective septic system management. Our findings reveal that not all companies offer routine maintenance services, and service prices vary by region and system type. Spatial disparities in service availability are often linked to travel distances, potentially contributing to unequal access. From the user perspective, high costs and limited access to timely services remain significant concerns that hinder proper septic system upkeep.

Takeaway(s)

Septic services can be limited in the coastal communities of South Carolina. Consumers are aware of these limitations and perceive them as barriers to timely septic system maintenance.

Recommended Citation

Jeong, Dawoon; Scaroni, Amy E.; and Motallebi, Marzieh (2025) "Assessing Septic Service Availability and Pricing across Coastal South Carolina," Journal of South Carolina Water Resources: Vol. 10 : Iss. 1 , Article 2.
Available at: https://open.clemson.edu/jscwr/vol10/iss1/2