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New Homeowner Guide for Jefferson & Commerce, GA

Welcome to Jackson County! The Jefferson area grew faster than any area its size in the country in the latest Census count. That means a lot of new neighbors, and a lot of people still learning how their new house works. This guide covers the stuff nobody hands you at closing: trash, water, permits, and one question that surprises a lot of new homeowners here. Is your house on a septic tank?

Your First-Month Checklist

  1. Find out if you're on septic or city sewer. The next section shows you how.

  2. If you're on septic, find your tank and ask the seller for any pumping or repair records.

  3. Set up water service, or get to know your well.

  4. Sign up for trash pickup. It does not start on its own here. In the city of Jefferson, you activate service with the city's hauler. Outside city limits, you hire a private hauler or use a county drop-off site.

  5. Update your address for your driver's license, taxes, and voter registration.

  6. Save our number in your phone: 770-472-7587. Septic emergencies get answered 24/7.

Septic or Sewer? How to Tell

  • Check your water bill. If there is no sewer charge, you are most likely on septic.

  • On a well? Then you are very likely on septic too.

  • Walk the yard. Look for one or two round lids, or a slightly raised spot, usually 10 to 20 feet from the house.

  • Ask the county. Jackson County Environmental Health keeps septic permit records, and you can request a record search.

  • Still not sure? Call us. We will find your tank and tell you how it is doing.

Septic Basics for New Owners

  • Most tanks need pumping every 3 to 5 years, depending on tank size and how many people live in the home.

  • Only flush toilet paper. Wipes, even "flushable" ones, cause clogs.

  • Keep cars, sheds, and pools off the drain field.

  • Spread laundry loads out over the week.

  • Call if you notice slow drains, gurgling, a sewage smell, or soggy spots in the yard. Small problems are much easier to fix early.

Why Neighbors Call Septic Plus

  • We are a family-owned company based on South Elm Street in Commerce, right down the road from Jefferson.

  • We answer septic emergencies 24/7, and you talk to a real person.

  • We give honest advice. If something can wait, we tell you.

  • Our customers rate us 5 stars on Google.

"Matt and Kevin are super knowledgeable and very honest!" Brent C., Google review

Just Moved In? Let's Make Sure Your Septic Is Ready.

Call Septic Plus at 770-472-7587, or tap Get a Quote to tell us about your new home. We serve Jefferson, Commerce, Athens, and all of Jackson County.

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