PERC TESTING NEAR AUBURN, AL

A perc test (short for percolation test) is a soil test, often performed by engineers, land surveyors, and soil scientists. This test determines the permeability of a property’s soil (how quickly the soil will absorb liquid.) In most jurisdictions around Auburn and in many others, the perc test is used to evaluate whether a septic system is viable for a plot of land and can provide useful information about what kind of septic system is best suited for a property.

Typically, the test will begin with a hole being drilled or dug. This hole is then filled with water. If a site fails the test, more often than not, this will be due to the soil not being permeable enough. However, occasionally soil may also fail a perc test by being excessively permeable. Soil that drains too quickly can lead to fears of groundwater contamination. Finally, land which is too steep may also fail a perc test.

If a site is deemed suitable, a septic system can be established. In most jurisdictions (Auburn included), septic systems are considerably regulated, so care will need to be taken to meet legal requirements. Alabama has numerous regulations for both percolation testing and septic system construction.



A standard septic system is comprised of three primary parts. A septic tank, drain field (sometimes referred to as a leach field), and pipes. Wastewater which enters the septic system is ultimately deposited in the drain field. The drain field is the component of the septic system related to perc testing. Usually comprised of ditches filled with gravel, the drain field’s purpose is to allow any discharge to percolate through the soil, where it can be absorbed into the subgrade. Knowing this, it’s pretty obvious why soil that’s insufficiently permeable, or too permeable can be a problem. Ground which doesn’t absorb enough liquid can lead to pools of untreated sewage and ground which absorbs liquid too quickly can lead to contamination issues.



In a worst-case scenario, a failed perc test can leave land fully incapable of supporting any dwelling. However, depending on the circumstances, all hope may not be lost. In recent years, sophisticated alternative septic systems, known as engineered systems, have been developed. These systems are capable of working in a wider range of soil conditions than a conventional septic system and drain field. Such advanced systems tend to be pricey and require special care, but may still be worth considering. Alternatively, if an existing public sewer system exists nearby the property, sometimes a sewer hookup can be established.

Ultimately, if the site you’re interested in having tested lacks a connection to a municipal sewage line or existing septic system, a perc test is can be an invaluable tool for evaluating the viability of land. Here at ACAI Construction, our team offers high-quality percolation tests for Alabama and Georgia. If you’re interested in working with us, or are interested in learning more, feel free to contact us.