ATU Installation in Orlando & Central Florida

A conventional septic system uses anaerobic (oxygen-free) bacteria to break down waste inside a tank before releasing effluent into a drainfield. An aerobic treatment unit introduces oxygen into the treatment process, which supports far more active bacterial treatment and produces a significantly cleaner effluent. ATUs are required in Florida when conventional systems aren’t suitable — for example, near water bodies, on smaller lots, or in areas with high water tables — because they treat wastewater to a higher standard before it enters the soil.

Florida has some of the most sensitive water resources in the country — the springs, rivers, lakes, and aquifer that define our landscape are vulnerable to nutrient pollution from improperly treated wastewater. Many Central Florida counties require ATUs on properties near water bodies, in areas with high water tables, or on smaller lots where a conventional drainfield wouldn’t provide adequate treatment. The higher-quality effluent an ATU produces helps protect those water resources while still allowing properties to use onsite wastewater treatment.

The timeline depends primarily on the permitting process, which varies by county and project complexity. In most cases, you can expect the full process — from initial site evaluation through permitted installation and county inspection — to take anywhere from a few weeks to a couple of months. We work to move permit applications through as efficiently as possible and keep you informed at every stage. Once permits are approved, installation itself typically takes one to two days.

Yes — and in Florida, that maintenance is required by state law. ATU systems must be inspected and serviced at regular intervals (typically every four to six months) by a licensed contractor, and an annual operating permit must be maintained through your county health department. Lapin Services offers maintenance agreements that keep your system in compliance, performing correctly, and covered by regular professional inspection — so you’re never scrambling to meet a regulatory deadline.

ATU installation costs vary based on your property’s site conditions, the system size and type required, permit fees (which differ by county), and whether any existing system needs to be removed. Because every installation is site-specific, we provide detailed written estimates after evaluating your property — so there are no surprises. Call us at (407) 326-3367 to schedule a site evaluation and get an accurate quote for your situation.

Absolutely — and this is one of the most valuable things we do. Navigating septic permits in Orange, Osceola, Seminole, Lake, and other Central Florida counties requires experience, relationships, and a thorough understanding of each jurisdiction’s specific requirements. Our team handles permit applications, communicates directly with county health departments, and coordinates on-site inspections. We represent you throughout the process so you can focus on everything else.

Don’t ignore it — but don’t panic either. County notices come with deadlines, and working with a licensed contractor quickly is the best way to protect yourself. Lapin Services can review your notice, evaluate your current system, determine what upgrade is required, and represent you through the compliance and permitting process. We’ve helped many Central Florida homeowners and property owners resolve compliance issues efficiently and professionally.

Yes — we offer full ATU maintenance programs that cover all required inspections, system checks, component servicing, and annual operating permit support. Whether we installed your system or not, our licensed technicians can take over the ongoing maintenance of your ATU and keep it running properly. Consistent maintenance is the single most important factor in the long-term performance and lifespan of an aerobic treatment unit.