From Employee to Owner: Buying the Onsite Company I’ve Worked at for Decades

Back to the E-Newsletter Archive Our columnist shares the experience of purchasing his business, and some factors for other potential buyers to consider.

02.17.2026

Residential and commercial septic system, portable restroom, and industrial vacuum service news for industry leaders

States Snapshot: Counting on Wastewater Association Collaboration

Collin Smith sees a shift to more advanced septic systems and leans on fellow industry leaders to learn. Read more

3 Key Reasons for Site Service Operators to Modernize Their Software

The market for portable sanitation, septic, and site services is moving fast, and sticking with outdated methods is holding many operators back. Read more

Sponsored by: Routeware

From Employee to Owner: Buying the Onsite Company I’ve Worked at for Decades

Our columnist shares the experience of purchasing his business, and some factors for other potential buyers to consider. Read more

PRO Cast: Learning & Growing 5 Generations Later

It wasn’t always apparent that Zach Bailey would be a part of his family’s septic business, but history and heritage steered him into the career. Now Zach is a fifth-generation member of his family’s septic business. Read more

[AUCTION] 1999 Paystar

1999 Paystar, 117k assumed miles. 3,200-gallon tank, freshly rebuilt pump. Failed startup, so liquidating. BID NOW

“Price increases aren’t about gouging customers; they’re about staying healthy, sustainable, and able to deliver quality work. A business that’s barely hanging on can’t serve anyone well.”

From the article: How to Raise Your Prices Without Losing Customers

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DIRTY DROPS WEEKLY

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