When you work with ESS, you're working with a neighbor. Someone who lives in this community, whose family and friends depend on the same water table, and who has a personal stake in getting your project right. There are no project managers or hand-offs at ESS. When you have a question, you speak directly with Matthew, the PE who is responsible for every decision on your project.

Initial Contact

Project Inquiry & Initial Consultation

Submit your project inquiry using the form on the contact page. Describe your property, project type, and any site conditions or constraints you're aware of. Matthew reviews every inquiry personally and follows up within 3–5 business days with a clear response and recommended next step.

Your role: Complete the project inquiry form. Matthew handles all follow-up from there.

Site Work

Site Evaluation & Feasibility Assessment

Matthew visits your property to conduct a thorough assessment: topography, soil conditions, groundwater depth, required setbacks from property lines and water bodies, and overall IWS feasibility. The evaluation determines which type of system (anaerobic septic, aerobic treatment unit, or alternative technology) is appropriate for your site, and identifies any constraints that need to be addressed.

Your role: Grant property access. Matthew prepares the full evaluation and advises you on options.

Testing

Percolation Test Supervision

Per HAR Chapter 11-62, Appendix C, a percolation test must be performed and documented before a new IWS can be permitted. Matthew schedules and supervises the perc test, oversees test hole preparation, measures percolation rates, and documents results on the required DOH form. This data drives all system sizing decisions.

Your role: Property access only. Matthew coordinates all testing and documentation.

Engineering Design

IWS Engineering Design Plans

Using perc test results, site evaluation data, and DOH requirements under HAR Chapter 11-62, Matthew prepares complete PE-stamped IWS design plans and specifications. These include the system layout, tank sizing and specifications, absorption field design, cross-sections, setbacks, and all required design details. Plans are prepared to DOH review standards to minimize comment cycles.

Your role: Review and sign the property owner section of the application. Matthew stamps and certifies all engineering documents.

DOH Permitting

DOH Wastewater Branch Submittal & Review

Matthew submits the complete IWS permit application via the DOH Wastewater Branch online portal (wastewater.ehawaii.gov). He tracks the review status, responds promptly to all reviewer comments and requests for additional information, coordinates any required revisions, and pursues approval until the permit is issued. You are kept informed at every milestone but are not responsible for any DOH interactions.

Your role: Essentially hands-off. Matthew manages all DOH contact and keeps you updated.

Construction

Contractor Selection & IWS Construction

With DOH plan approval in hand, you hire a licensed contractor to install the system. Eligible license types include A (General Engineering), C-9 (Excavation & Grading), C-37 (Plumbing), or C-43 (Sewers). Matthew can advise on contractor selection and provides construction oversight, reviewing the work at key stages to ensure the approved design is followed precisely. Deviations from approved plans require amended submittals to DOH.

Your role: Select and hire a licensed contractor. Matthew guides the process and monitors the work.

Final Certification

Construction Inspection & DOH Approval to Use

After construction is complete, Matthew conducts the final on-site inspection to verify the system was installed in accordance with the DOH-approved plans. He then prepares the IWS Construction Inspection Report and coordinates the Contractor Certification Form, submitting both to the DOH Wastewater Branch. Upon DOH review and acceptance, the Approval to Use letter is issued, and your IWS is legally certified and ready for operation.

✅ Project complete. Matthew delivers your DOH Approval to Use letter. Your IWS is fully compliant and certified.

Matthew is your neighbor in this community, and he plans to be here for a long time. When you're ready to take this step for your property and for the water we all share, reach out. He will follow up personally within 3–5 business days.

Submit Project Inquiry →

From First Contact
to DOH Approval

Is Your Cesspool on the List?

From First Contactto DOH Approval

Is Your Cesspool on the List?

From First Contact
to DOH Approval