Septic Systems
Septic Systems Experience Forensic Engineer & Septic Tank Design Expert
Septic systems fail for all kinds of reasons. When they do, it’s messy, stressful, and usually expensive too. That’s where I come in. I’m Bonneau Dickson, PE, a septic systems experience forensic engineer and septic tank design expert with hands-on work across more than 40 projects. I help homeowners, attorneys, insurers, and property owners find out exactly why a septic system failed. Then I determine what it takes to address the problem.
Who I Am and Why It Matters
I am a licensed Sanitary Engineer based in Berkeley, CA, and I have worked independently since 1993. My background combines civil engineering with forensic investigation and expert witness work. In other words, I don’t just design septic systems. I also get called in when things go wrong. Because of this, I understand both sides. I know how septic systems should work, and I know why they sometimes don’t.
What I Do
My septic system work covers two main areas:
- Forensic Engineering and Expert Witness Services: I investigate septic system failures, sewage backups, disclosure disputes, and property damage caused by wastewater problems. First, I review the records. Then I inspect the site. After that, I explain what I find in plain, simple language. No confusing jargon. Just clear answers that attorneys, insurers, and juries can understand.
- Civil Engineering Consulting: I also design and oversee septic systems, leach fields, mound systems, sewers, pump stations, and wastewater facilities. My project list ranges from small home repairs to a $5 million EPA-funded project that served three communities.
How Does Septic Tank Design Work?
Good septic design starts with the basics. First, I study the soil. Next, I look at the site layout. Then I checked the local health department rules. Once that’s done, I size the tank appropriately. I plan the leach field or mound system too.
Finally, I make sure the whole setup can handle how much wastewater the property actually produces. I’ve designed replacement systems after each field failed. I’ve also planned systems for apartment complexes and entire neighborhoods. Every site is different, so every design gets its own careful plan.
Why Do Septic Systems Fail?
Most septic failures come down to a few common problems. Sometimes a pipe gets crushed or clogged. Sometimes the system is just too small. Other times, the soil isn’t right for the job. And in some older homes, outdated parts like dry wells were used instead of proper leach fields.
I’ve investigated cases where wastewater surfaced onto a neighbor’s yard. I’ve also looked into bad pre-sale inspections and even one tragic dry-well collapse. Finding the real cause takes more than a guess. That’s the whole point of a proper forensic review.
Why Choose Me?
Here’s what makes a septic tank design expert like me different. I’ve seen septic systems from both angles. I design them, and I investigate them when they break. That gives me a sharper eye for details others might miss. Plus, I can back up my findings with decades of documented project work. Whether you need a solid expert opinion for a legal case or a dependable design for a new system, I bring the same careful, evidence-based approach to the table.
Have a septic system issue you need to talk through? Contact me today at (510) 845-8625 or reach out online to schedule a consultation!