In West Virginia, what must installers do to ensure proper septic system placement?

To ensure proper septic system placement, obtaining a soil evaluation is essential in West Virginia. A soil evaluation involves analyzing the characteristics of the soil in the designated area, such as its texture, composition, drainage capabilities, and percolation rate. These factors are crucial because they determine how well the soil can absorb and treat wastewater. If the soil cannot adequately manage the effluent, it could lead to system failure, contamination of groundwater, or public health hazards.

While aspects like following local zoning laws, assessing water table levels, and possibly coordinating with local authorities like the fire department may be relevant to broader considerations or regulations, they do not replace the need for a detailed understanding of the soil's properties. Therefore, conducting a soil evaluation is a fundamental step that directly impacts the effectiveness and legality of the septic system installation process.