Kothrade Sewer, Water and Excavating provides a complete range of excavating, site preparation, water or sewer connection, building pad and septic system installation services for commercial and residential projects.
Based in the northwestern suburbs of Minneapolis/St. Paul, we are a private, family-owned business dedicated to meeting our client's needs in a timely, cost-effective manner.
I’ve used Kothrade twice now to clear a floor drain in my laundry room (dog hair + old cast iron pipes are a bad combo). Great work both times. Rich is timely, pleasant, and offers helpful tips. Good business to work with!
AL
Anna Lekander
Sep 28, 2025
5.0
Great company, knowledgeable, professional and friendly staff, highly recommend! Super fast service both times we called, first for a septic pumping and then when we needed a septic repair.
NY
Non Yu
Sep 26, 2025
5.0
Rich came out, assessed my situation and quickly provided an effective and affordable solution - highly recommend!
SM
Steven Mattson
Feb 16, 2023
5.0
Great company and individuals, always willing to go the extra mile!
DT
Dorian Thompson
Apr 18, 2019
5.0
Dependable and extremely experienced in their field. Love these guys!
Frequently Asked Questions About Kothrade Sewer, Septic, and Excavating
Why is it important to pump routinely?
ALL septic tanks MUST be periodically pumped to remove floating scum and sludge that accumulates. Floating scum or sludge that is allowed to enter the soil treatment area will lead to premature failure and cause expensive and often irreparable damage. Also, lack of proper maintenance can result in a sewage backup into the home.
How do you know when it's time to pump?
Minn. R. 7080.2450 requires an SSTS maintenance assessment at least once every three years. A local government's ordinance may contain stricter or additional requirements, therefore, it is important to know and follow the local requirements. Pumping frequency depends on tank size, use, and operating condition.
How can I find out when the last time I pumped was?
Some local government units keep pumping records on file. Try checking with them. If you are a previous customer of Kothrade, contact us. We keep records of previous pumpings by property.
What if I don't know where my tanks are?
Call your local government unit and request a septic as-built. Not all cities or counties keep septic information on file. If you are unable to get an as-built, call Kothrades, we can walk you through some points of interest in locating the tanks. If all else fails, a Kothrade technician is able to come out and locate the tanks for you.
What do I need to do before Kothrade comes to pump my tanks?
Very little! Ensure your manhole covers are accessible, that a garden hose is available, and be sure to inform us of whether or not it’s ok to park in your driveway. When you call to schedule, these questions will be asked.
Can I use septic tank additives?
Minn. R. 7080.2450 prohibits the use of any product intended to lessen the amount of accumulated solids in a septic tank in order to reduce the frequency of proper maintenance. The use of additives does not fulfill the solids removal requirement of the rule. Additionally, additives containing hazardous materials must not be used in an SSTS.
What is a compliance inspection?
A compliance inspection is an evaluation, investigation, inspection or other such process conducted for the purpose of issuing a Certificate of Compliance (COC) or Notice of Non-compliance (NON).
What is a COC and a NON?
The COC certifies a system is in compliance with state requirements at the time of the inspection. The COC does not guarantee future hydraulic performance, especially if the use changes or the flow increases over the amounts used by th current occupants.
For an existing SSTS, the COC is valid for three years from the date of issuance. The NON gives notice a system fails to be in compliance with state requirements at the time of inspection. There are two types of failing designations, an Imminent Threat to Public Health or Safety and a Failing to Protect Ground water. The NON must also indicate the time frame for upgrade, repair, or replacement as set in the local ordinance.
When are compliance inspections required?
While state law does not require an inspection at property transfer, many Local Government Units (LGUs) have ordinances requiring this. LGUs are Counties, Townships, and Cities. The LGU may also require a compliance inspection when complaints are received, as part of area surveys, or for lot spills. Compliance inspections can also be required upon request by the purchaser of a property, the mortgage lender, or real estate agent.
Do you have an existing septic system?
During sale or title transfer, the septic system may need to be upgraded to make the system compliant per Minnesota code. Check with your local government unit for their property disclosure requirements. To find out whether or not your system is compliant, call Kothrade for a tank certification.
What services does Kothrade Sewer, Septic, and Excavating provide?
Kothrade offers full-service excavation, residential and commercial septic and sewer systems, septic compliance inspections, septic system installation and repair, sewer and water connections, and septic system care and maintenance.
What are the operating hours of Kothrade Sewer, Septic, and Excavating?
Kothrade operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every day of the year.
How can I contact Kothrade for services or inquiries?
You can call Kothrade at +1 763-498-8702 or email pamk@kothrade.com or glenk@kothrade.com.
Why is regular septic tank pumping important?
Regular pumping is necessary to remove floating scum and sludge from septic tanks to prevent premature failure and costly damage, including sewage backups into the home.
How do I know when it's time to pump my septic tank?
Pumping frequency depends on tank size, use, and condition; Minnesota regulations require an SSTS maintenance assessment at least once every three years and local ordinances may have stricter requirements.
What should I do before Kothrade arrives to pump my septic tanks?
Ensure manhole covers are accessible, have a garden hose ready, and inform Kothrade if parking in your driveway is permitted when scheduling the appointment.
Can I use septic tank additives to reduce the frequency of pumping?
No, Minnesota rules prohibit additives to reduce solids accumulation; additives containing hazardous materials must not be used in septic systems.
What nearby places can I visit when I come to Kothrade?
Nearby you can find Storman's Food and Fuel, a convenience store and restaurant perfect for grabbing a meal or supplies, and Marathon gas station for refueling before or after your visit.
How can nearby contractors benefit customers visiting Kothrade?
Nearby contractors such as Patriot Erectors Inc and Blackstone Contractors offer complementary construction and ironwork services, which can be useful for coordinating site preparation or excavation projects with multiple professionals.
Is there a nearby educational facility where families might visit while at Kothrade?
Families can visit Step By Step Montessori Schools of Corcoran, a preschool and private education facility nearby, which might be convenient for clients with children.