13930 WA-9, Arlington, WA 98223
Dispatch@septicsolutionsllc.com
The Story of Septic Solutions LLC: From Ambitious Idea to Market Leadership
I’m Art Nikolin, co‑founder and CEO of Septic Solutions. My connection to this work began when I was a teenager helping install my family’s septic system. That hands‑on start taught me that quality workmanship protects a home, the surrounding soil, and local waterways. Because of that, I personally guarantee the quality of every job our team performs and accept responsibility for the results.
Over the years I’ve focused on septic systems exclusively, so our processes, training, and equipment are built for reliable, long‑lasting performance. I make sure our technicians hold up‑to‑date licenses and know how their role affects the final outcome. When homeowners call, they want clear answers and prompt action — not a sales pitch. My approach is to identify the root cause, explain the options plainly, and fix it right so the problem doesn’t come back.
Growing up in Western Washington taught me how local weather and soil conditions change system behavior, and I use that local knowledge to guide our methods. Our company culture values integrity, ownership, and respect for each home we serve. I guarantee our work, and if something isn’t right, we’ll return and make it right.
Over the years I’ve focused on septic systems exclusively, so our processes, training, and equipment are built for reliable, long‑lasting performance. I make sure our technicians hold up‑to‑date licenses and know how their role affects the final outcome. When homeowners call, they want clear answers and prompt action — not a sales pitch. My approach is to identify the root cause, explain the options plainly, and fix it right so the problem doesn’t come back.
Growing up in Western Washington taught me how local weather and soil conditions change system behavior, and I use that local knowledge to guide our methods. Our company culture values integrity, ownership, and respect for each home we serve. I guarantee our work, and if something isn’t right, we’ll return and make it right.
Our company's history
our history is a rich tapestry woven from countless experiences and events that define who we are today, reflecting the diverse journeys and moments that have shaped our identity over the years and continue to influence our future
The Beginning and First Steps
In early 2017, three brothers—Denis, Edward, and Pavel—conceived the idea of starting a septic service business. Each brought valuable expertise to the table: Denis was an experienced septic installer, Edward was a skilled heavy excavator operator, and Pavel worked in the HVAC industry. One Sunday, following a church service, the brothers decided to join forces. Their primary goal was to become the premier service provider in the traditionally conservative and modernization-resistant septic industry of Northwest Washington. Thus, Earthwork Solutions LLC was born.
Growth Pains and the "School of Hard Knocks"
Logic dictated that working with earth required an excavator. They purchased their first machine with personal savings, only to realize they also needed a trailer and a powerful truck to haul it. Additional funds had to be secured immediately.
Once the equipment was ready and legal formalities settled, a major challenge arose: customer acquisition. With no marketing experience, the brothers relied on intuition. It took five months to land their first job. They frequently faced skepticism; system designers would often warn clients against hiring the "young and inexperienced" crew despite their competitive pricing. While waiting for septic projects, the brothers took on any excavation work available—stump removal, trenching, and site grading—gaining invaluable hands-on experience.
Once the equipment was ready and legal formalities settled, a major challenge arose: customer acquisition. With no marketing experience, the brothers relied on intuition. It took five months to land their first job. They frequently faced skepticism; system designers would often warn clients against hiring the "young and inexperienced" crew despite their competitive pricing. While waiting for septic projects, the brothers took on any excavation work available—stump removal, trenching, and site grading—gaining invaluable hands-on experience.
he First Project and Lessons Learned
Success finally came in August 2017 in Granite Falls. A homeowner, impressed by their drive and persistence, hired them to install a septic system for a new house. However, inexperience led to a significant setback in reading project elevations. Misunderstanding the "zero point," they used the road level instead of the house stub-out, resulting in the septic tank being buried at a depth nearly equal to a man's height. When the inspector arrived, he laughed, noting that the work clearly showed their lack of experience. The entire system had to be reinstalled. Similar mistakes followed in the early days, leading to financial losses but providing a world-class education in the field.
he First Project and Lessons Learned
Success finally came in August 2017 in Granite Falls. A homeowner, impressed by their drive and persistence, hired them to install a septic system for a new house. However, inexperience led to a significant setback in reading project elevations. Misunderstanding the "zero point," they used the road level instead of the house stub-out, resulting in the septic tank being buried at a depth nearly equal to a man's height. When the inspector arrived, he laughed, noting that the work clearly showed their lack of experience. The entire system had to be reinstalled. Similar mistakes followed in the early days, leading to financial losses but providing a world-class education in the field.
Innovation as a Key Driver
A year later, the company found its niche. While industry veterans were hesitant to adopt new technologies, EWS embraced innovation. The brothers underwent specialized training and earned certifications for advanced systems such as Nuwater BNR 500, BioBarrier, Micro Fast, and White Water. This proactive approach placed them at the forefront of the industry.
Expansion required a larger fleet. Their first used Freightliner dump truck proved to be a trial; its engine failed under the first full load, requiring lengthy repairs. However, the company continued to grow. In late 2018, they hired their first two employees. By 2019, the team grew by five more, and subsequently, they began adding 10 new employees annually. The company’s core philosophy remains "people first," emphasizing responsibility for the well-being and safety of every team member.
Expansion required a larger fleet. Their first used Freightliner dump truck proved to be a trial; its engine failed under the first full load, requiring lengthy repairs. However, the company continued to grow. In late 2018, they hired their first two employees. By 2019, the team grew by five more, and subsequently, they began adding 10 new employees annually. The company’s core philosophy remains "people first," emphasizing responsibility for the well-being and safety of every team member.
Reorganization and Market Dominance
By early 2021, Earthwork Solutions shifted its focus from basic installations to comprehensive maintenance and service. Their service area expanded across four counties: Skagit, Island, King, and Snohomish.
In 2023 and early 2024, the company acquired its first Freightliner M2 pump trucks. By late 2024, a major reorganization took place. To preserve the diverse skills acquired over the years, the septic and excavation divisions were separated into two distinct entities:
Septic Solutions LLC and Earthwork Solutions LLC (EWS).
In 2023 and early 2024, the company acquired its first Freightliner M2 pump trucks. By late 2024, a major reorganization took place. To preserve the diverse skills acquired over the years, the septic and excavation divisions were separated into two distinct entities:
Septic Solutions LLC and Earthwork Solutions LLC (EWS).
The Current Era
In March 2025, the company launched a state-of-the-art website that set a new standard for user experience in the industry. By December 2025, Septic Solutions LLC solidified its reputation by reaching its 300th five-star Google review—the highest average rating among septic companies in Washington State.
In early 2026, the company received its license for Whatcom County, marking further expansion. What began as an ambitious venture by three brothers has evolved into a powerhouse with over a decade of collective expertise, thousands of satisfied customers, and hundreds of homes serviced every month.
In early 2026, the company received its license for Whatcom County, marking further expansion. What began as an ambitious venture by three brothers has evolved into a powerhouse with over a decade of collective expertise, thousands of satisfied customers, and hundreds of homes serviced every month.