Last updated: July 2, 2026.
At SepticNest, our goal is to publish the most accurate, useful, and trustworthy content about septic system care that we can. Here is exactly how we do it.
Who writes our content
Every article is written by a named human author with relevant experience. Our lead author and editor is Ray Whitfield, who has spent years living with, researching, and writing about residential septic systems and working alongside pumping crews and inspectors. Author details appear on each post and on our author page.
How we research
We start from primary sources, including guidance from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, state and county health departments, and septic-system manufacturers, along with first-hand experience and reputable references. We prefer original explanation and hands-on findings over rehashing what other sites say. We do not scrape, spin, or auto-publish unedited content.
How we write
Content is written to be people-first: clear, specific, and genuinely helpful for U.S. homeowners on septic systems, in a plain-spoken, practical voice that avoids unnecessary jargon. We prioritize solving the reader’s problem over stuffing keywords, and we are honest when the right answer is “call a professional.”
How we review and fact-check
Before publishing, each article is reviewed for accuracy, clarity, and completeness. We verify factual claims against authoritative sources, confirm that maintenance intervals and safety guidance reflect current best practice, check that links work and point to reputable sources, and make sure the piece clearly distinguishes routine homeowner tasks from work that requires a licensed professional.
How we handle updates
Guidance and products change over time. We periodically review and update older articles, refreshing facts, links, and recommendations. Significantly updated posts show a revised date.
How we correct mistakes
We are not perfect. If we get something wrong, we fix it. Spotted an error? Email [email protected]. We review every report, correct confirmed errors promptly, and note substantive corrections transparently.
Editorial independence
Advertising and any affiliate relationships never dictate our conclusions. Affiliate content is disclosed, see our Affiliate Disclosure. Ads are managed separately from our editorial process, and we will always tell you when a product is one we think you should avoid.
AI and automation
Where we use tools to assist research or drafting, a human author reviews, edits, fact-checks, and takes responsibility for every published word. We do not publish unreviewed machine-generated text.