Frequently asked questions.

All of Central Oregon — Deschutes County and northern Klamath County — including Bend, Redmond, Sunriver, La Pine, Fall River, Crescent, Gilchrist, Crescent Lake, Odell Lake, and Chemult.

Yes. Leonardo Excavation is fully licensed and insured — CCB #239305 · SDS (DEQ) #39106. Oregon now calls the DEQ septic license a Sewage Disposal Service (SDS) license; it's the same credential. We don't cut corners.

Yes — we handle the permitting from start to finish, whether it's a city, county, or state permit. Septic permits go through the county; a DEQ variance is the one that's handled at the state level. It's one less thing on your plate.

Straightforward pricing, no hidden fees. After a free on-site visit we give you a clear written estimate. It's based on the scope we can see; if site conditions change the work, we document it in a written change order and get your approval before we proceed.

Yes. The on-site visit and estimate are free with no obligation. Luke reviews every request himself and follows up within one business day.

For larger projects, a 25% deposit at signing secures your spot in our schedule, and the balance is billed as the work progresses. Small projects are paid in full to get on the schedule. We accept cash, check, and ACH bank transfer; credit and debit cards can be arranged with a small processing fee.

Yes — we offer financing through Acorn Finance so you can spread the cost of larger septic and excavation projects into monthly payments. We also work with local credit unions if you'd rather finance through your own bank.

You do. Leonardo Excavation is owner-operated — Luke is on your job. No call center, no middleman.

Most residential systems run from the mid-teens to $40k+ depending on system type, soil, and drain-field size. We give you a clear written estimate after a free site visit — no hidden fees, and any change to the scope is documented and approved before we proceed.

Tank replacements start at $7,500. Very small repairs can come in below that, but a full tank swap is the realistic starting point. We'll give you a firm written number after we look at the system.

Yes. We design, permit, and install commercial-scale septic systems alongside our residential work — see our commercial septic page for details.

Once permits are approved, most residential installs take a few days on site. Permitting timelines vary by county workload.

It depends on your soil, water table, and lot size. We evaluate the site and recommend the most cost-effective system that will pass DEQ.

Yes. New and upgraded septic installations carry a 1-year workmanship warranty, on top of any applicable manufacturer warranties on the components and materials.

Not necessarily — it's more common practice than hard requirement. Most sales involve a basic inspection with a pump-out, which buyers and lenders typically want to see. That's different from a state septic evaluation report, which is a state-recorded document and costs considerably more. We'll tell you which one your sale actually needs.

Most residential inspections take 1–2 hours on site; you get the findings the same day.