FAQ | Septic & Site Work Questions Answered

Getting Started

Getting started is easy! Simply give us a call at (919) 631-5768, send us an email at [email protected], or fill out our contact form. We'll schedule a time to visit your property, discuss your needs, and provide you with a free, detailed estimate.

During our initial consultation, we'll answer all your questions, assess the site conditions, and explain exactly what the project will entail—no pressure, no obligation.

We typically respond to inquiries within 24 hours or less. For most projects, we can schedule a site visit within a few days and provide a detailed written estimate shortly after. We understand that your time is valuable, and we work to get you answers quickly so you can make informed decisions.

No, all estimates are completely free with no obligation. We'll visit your property, assess your needs, evaluate site conditions, and provide you with a detailed written estimate at no cost. There's no pressure to move forward—we want you to make the decision that's right for you.

We primarily serve Nash, Edgecombe, Wilson, Wayne, and Lenoir Counties in Eastern North Carolina. If you're in a surrounding area, we encourage you to reach out—we're often able to accommodate projects outside our primary service area. Give us a call at (919) 631-5768 or visit our Service Areas page for more details.

Pricing & Payment

Every project is unique, and pricing depends on several factors including the scope of work, site conditions, materials required, and project complexity. That's why we provide detailed, itemized estimates after visiting your property and assessing your specific needs.

Our estimates are always fair, transparent, and comprehensive—with no hidden fees or surprise costs. We believe in honest pricing, and we'll explain every line item so you know exactly what you're paying for.

We accept multiple payment methods including cash, checks, and major credit cards. Payment terms will be clearly outlined in your project agreement. We typically require a deposit to secure your project date, with the balance due upon completion and your satisfaction.

We're working on establishing financing partnerships to make our services more accessible. In the meantime, we're happy to discuss payment plans for larger projects on a case-by-case basis. Contact us to discuss your specific situation and budget.

Project Timelines

Project timelines vary depending on the scope of work, site conditions, and weather. Here are some general timeframes:

Septic system installation: Typically 3-5 days from start to finish
Driveway construction: Usually 1-3 days depending on length and complexity
Site preparation: Varies widely based on lot size and scope (2-7 days average)

We'll provide you with a detailed timeline in your estimate and keep you updated throughout the project. Weather delays and permit processing times can affect schedules, but we'll communicate any changes promptly.

We recommend scheduling projects 2-4 weeks in advance when possible, especially during our busy spring and summer seasons. However, we understand that urgent needs arise, and we'll do our best to accommodate rush projects when feasible. Contact us as soon as you know you need our services, and we'll work with you to find the earliest available date.

Weather is unpredictable in Eastern North Carolina, and safety is always our top priority. If rain, extreme heat, or other weather conditions make work unsafe or compromise quality, we'll reschedule to the next available date. We'll communicate with you promptly about any weather-related delays and work to minimize disruptions to your schedule.

Septic Systems

Common signs that you may need a new septic system include:

Persistent sewage odors around your property
Slow draining sinks, toilets, or showers throughout the house
Standing water or soggy areas in the drain field
Sewage backing up into your home
Lush, overly green grass above the drain field
Your system is 20-30+ years old

If you're experiencing any of these issues, contact us for an inspection. We'll assess your system and recommend repair or replacement based on its condition.

Yes, septic system installations require permits from your local health department. The good news is that we handle all permit applications and inspections as part of our service. We're familiar with the requirements in Nash, Edgecombe, Wilson, Wayne, and Lenoir Counties, and we'll ensure your system meets all local and state regulations.

A properly installed and maintained septic system can last 20-30 years or more. Factors that affect lifespan include soil conditions, system design, usage patterns, and maintenance. Regular pumping (every 3-5 years), avoiding harsh chemicals, and being mindful of what goes down your drains can significantly extend your system's life.

The best septic system for your property depends on several factors including lot size, soil type, water table depth, household size, and local regulations. During our site evaluation, we'll conduct soil tests and assess your property to recommend the most appropriate system—whether that's a conventional system, advanced treatment system, or drip irrigation system. We'll explain the pros and cons of each option so you can make an informed decision.

Driveways & Site Work

Both have their advantages, and the best choice depends on your budget, property type, and preferences:

Gravel driveways: More affordable upfront, easier to repair, excellent drainage, rustic aesthetic. Ideal for rural properties and long driveways. Requires occasional maintenance like grading and adding gravel.

Paved driveways: Smoother surface, less maintenance long-term, cleaner appearance, better for heavy traffic. Higher upfront cost but can increase property value.

We're happy to discuss both options and help you choose what's best for your property and budget.

Proper drainage is key to preventing washouts. We use proven techniques including proper grading to direct water away from the driveway, installing culverts where necessary, creating French drains for problem areas, and compacting base materials to create a stable foundation. Our experience with Eastern North Carolina's heavy rains means we build driveways that can handle our climate.

Site preparation can include a wide range of services depending on your needs:

Land clearing (removing trees, brush, and vegetation)
Stump grinding and removal
Lot grading and leveling
Excavation for foundations or utilities
Drainage improvements
Erosion control measures
Debris removal and hauling

We'll assess your property and recommend exactly what's needed to prepare it for construction, landscaping, or development.

About Cariveau Site Solutions

Yes, we are fully licensed and insured to perform septic system installation, driveway construction, and site work in Eastern North Carolina. We carry liability insurance to protect both our team and your property. We're happy to provide proof of insurance upon request.

We're a family-owned, faith-driven company that treats every customer with honesty and respect. Unlike larger contractors, you'll work directly with our owners, Mickael or Mark Cariveau, from start to finish. We offer all-in-one service for septic systems, driveways, and site work—so you don't have to juggle multiple contractors. Most importantly, our word is our bond. We show up when we say we will, communicate clearly, and stand behind every job. We're building our reputation one satisfied customer at a time.

While we don't operate a 24/7 emergency service, we understand that septic emergencies and urgent site issues can't always wait. If you have an urgent need, give us a call at (919) 631-5768 and we'll do our best to accommodate you as quickly as possible. We prioritize emergency situations and will work to fit you into our schedule.