At Great Falls Septic Service, we know that maintaining a healthy septic system is a critical responsibility, but major repairs or replacements can be a significant financial burden. That’s why we’re committed to helping our clients understand the resources available to them. Fortunately, Virginia offers several programs designed to help homeowners—especially those with low incomes—access the financial assistance needed to ensure their systems are safe and functional.
Here are some of the key resources for septic system financing and assistance in Virginia:
The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) Septic and Well Assistance Program (SWAP)
The VDH operated the Septic and Well Assistance Program (SWAP) to help low-income homeowners repair or replace failing well and septic systems. This program, funded by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), was a crucial resource for Virginians. Please note that the project end date for this specific funding was September 30, 2025, and direct applications are no longer being accepted. Homeowners who believe they may have been eligible should still contact regional partners like those listed below to inquire about any new or ongoing programs.
- Eligibility: To have been eligible, homeowners needed to have had an income at or below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines. For example, for a family of four, the annual income limit is currently $64,300.
- What It Covered: SWAP funds were used for a variety of projects, including repairing or replacing a failing septic system, replacing a straight pipe, or connecting to a public sewer line.
Federal and State Financial Assistance Programs
In addition to the VDH’s program, other organizations offer ongoing grants and low-interest loans for homeowners. These are the programs that are now the primary resources for financial assistance.
- USDA Rural Development Single Family Housing Repair Loans and Grants: This program provides assistance to very-low-income homeowners for home repairs that remove health and safety hazards, which includes septic systems. Homeowners can combine loans and grants for a total of up to $50,000 in assistance.
- Southeast Rural Community Assistance Project (SERCAP): As a regional partner of the national Rural Community Assistance Partnership (RCAP), SERCAP provides grants and loans to low-income individuals and communities for water and wastewater system projects. They have a dedicated Individual Household Well and Septic Loan product with a low, 1% fixed interest rate for eligible homeowners.
- Planning District Commissions (PDCs): Local assistance for septic system repairs may be available through regional PDCs throughout Virginia, including the Northern Shenandoah Valley Regional Commission and the Northern Virginia Regional Commission.
Let Us Help You Navigate Your Options
These programs provide a much-needed lifeline for homeowners, ensuring that essential septic system upgrades are financially feasible. By taking advantage of these resources, you can protect your property and the environment without having to bear the full cost of a major project. Our team at Great Falls Septic Service can help you get started on your repair or replacement project. If you need an expert assessment of your septic system, contact us today to schedule a consultation.
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