Experts recommend inspecting your septic tank every three years as this service usually goes with septic tank pumping. Inspecting and pumping are necessary to ensure that your tank is in satisfactory working order as well as healthy.
- Why You Need a Septic Tank Inspection. Before you buy a home or commercial property, it’s important to know the state of every system you are purchasing. A septic tank or grease trap plays a vital role in the overall performance of your plumbing system and your property’s health and safety conditions. Because your septic tank is buried underground, a professional inspection is needed to thoroughly assess its condition, maintenance history, and likely future performance.
How often should you check your septic tank?
Inspect and Pump Frequently The average household septic system should be inspected at least every three years by a septic service professional. Household septic tanks are typically pumped every three to five years.
What should I look for when inspecting a septic system?
There are three things a septic system inspector will check during an inspection including the integrity of the septic tank, the proper function of the distribution box, and a leach field that is working as intended. If all three of these components are working correctly you will have passed the septic inspection.
What are the signs that your septic tank is full?
Here are some of the most common warning signs that you have a full septic tank:
- Your Drains Are Taking Forever.
- Standing Water Over Your Septic Tank.
- Bad Smells Coming From Your Yard.
- You Hear Gurgling Water.
- You Have A Sewage Backup.
- How often should you empty your septic tank?
How long does a typical septic system last?
Septic System Basics Because it is expensive to replace a septic system, proper maintenance is important. The more proactive you are in maintaining your system, the longer it will last. In fact, septic tanks can last as long as 30 years or more.
Why does my septic tank fill up when it rains?
Septic systems are designed to only handle wastewater from the house. If runoff water from the storm gets into the septic tank, it will get full and since the soil in the leachfield will be already too saturated, the water will start backing up into the house or from the manhole.
What to do after septic is pumped?
After you have had your septic tank pumped by a trusted septic company, there are some things you can and should do as the septic system owner.
- 1) Get on a Schedule.
- 2) Take Care of the System.
- 3) Know the Parts of Your System.
- 4) Check Other Possible Issues.
How much does it cost to pump a septic tank?
How much does it cost to pump out a septic tank? The average cost is $300, but can run up to $500, depending on your location. The tank should be pumped out every three to five years.
What is the most common cause of septic system failure?
Most septic systems fail because of inappropriate design or poor maintenance. Some soil-based systems (those with a drain field) are installed at sites with inadequate or inappropriate soils, excessive slopes, or high ground water tables.
Can a septic tank never be pumped?
What Are the Consequences of Not Pumping Your Tank? If the tank is not pumped, the solids will build up in the tank and the holding capacity of the tank will be diminished. Eventually, the solids will reach the pipe that feeds into the drain field, causing a clog. Waste water backing up into the house.
How do you know if your septic system is failing?
The first signs of a failing septic system may include slow draining toilets and sinks, gurgling noises within the plumbing, sewage odors inside, continuing drainage backups, or bacteria in the well water. The area of the strongest odor will point to the location of the failure in the septic system.
Do I have to replace my septic tank by 2020?
Under the new rules, if you have a specific septic tank that discharges to surface water (river, stream, ditch, etc.) you are required to upgrade or replace your septic tank treatment system to a full sewage treatment plant by 2020, or when you sell a property, if it’s prior to this date.
What will ruin a septic system?
Any paper products like tissues, paper towels, tampons, or sanitary products, even some heavier toilet paper, will clog your system if you flush enough of it. Wet wipes are another product that you should never flush into a septic system.
Can a septic system last forever?
How long does a septic system last? On average, a new septic system will last for 20-30 years. Soil quality – the quality of soil will determine how durable your septic tank is. For instance, acidic groundwater can corrode a concrete septic tank.
Septic Inspections When Buying or Selling a Home
You could be perplexed as to why you might want an aseptic examination before selling your house. Alternatively, are you purchasing a new home that has a septic system? Get professional information on septic systems and collaborate with a seasoned real estate agent throughout the process. Prospective home buyers typically engage an inspector to do a thorough assessment of the property before making an offer on it. The examination will typically involve a visual evaluation of the house’s structure as well as a search for pests.
Septic inspections are extremely important for your health and the health of anybody else who lives in your house, so homeowners should make a point of scheduling them on a regular basis.
In case you are buying or selling a home, the septic inspection will be an important part of the process.
What is a septic system?
One in every five homes in the United States is equipped with a septic system, yet you’d be shocked how many people are unaware of what they are. A septic system is a system that is designed to remove waste from a home or building. During normal operation, it collects and filters water and garbage from the washer, sinks, showers, and toilets before returning it to the sink. The mechanism then re-distributes the energy back into the earth. The entire procedure contributes to the reduction of water and soil pollution.
How often should you get a septic inspection?
The majority of specialists agree that you should get your septic tank examined at least once every three to five years. The examination normally takes place around the same time that you should have your septic tank pumped by a professional septic tank cleaning provider. In order to keep your septic tank healthy and in excellent functioning order, it is required to pump it regularly. Even though professionals recommend that homeowners get their septic tanks tested every five years, many homeowners wait considerably longer than this period.
At that point, inspectors will frequently recommend that you repair or replace your septic system, which can cost thousands of dollars if not done properly.
How is a septic inspection done?
Septic inspections may be divided into two categories.
Visual Inspections
If you are buying or selling a home, the home inspector will most likely do a visual assessment of the property. In order to do a visual examination, a few questions must be asked, such as the age of the house, how often the owner pumps the septic system, and when the previous inspection was performed. The inspector will next flush all of the toilets in the house and run all of the water in the house to ensure that the water pressure is enough and that everything is draining correctly. At the end of the inspection, the inspector will walk out to the drain field to ensure that there is no standing water, which might indicate the presence of a cesspool.
Even though a visual examination is convenient and quick, a comprehensive inspection may provide you with a more complete picture of the overall condition of the septic system.
Full Inspections
A thorough inspection contains all that a visual inspection does, but it also goes above and beyond that level of service. This is the inspection you’ll want to have done every three to five years, at the absolute least. Inspectors will remove the lid from the septic tank and assess the amount of water in the tank during a comprehensive examination. The level of the water might indicate whether or not the water is draining adequately. The inspector will next run water through the home to ensure that it is correctly draining from the house to the septic tank and that the water level within the tank does not rise as a result of the additional water being introduced into the system.
Dye tests are conducted to determine how much dye is incorporated into the water that is draining and how much of it makes its way into the sewage treatment plant.
Inspecting the backflow level will reveal whether or not there is an issue with your drain field.
Morse Engineering and Construction can provide you with further information.
Why is a Septic Inspection Important when Buying a Home?
Most modern septic systems have a useful life of roughly 25 years. Because you can typically extend the lifespan of your home’s septic system by arranging a routine septic inspection and making repairs as required, scheduling a routine septic inspection and making repairs as needed is a good idea. You should know what a septic inspection is and why it is such an important step in the real estate transaction if you are considering buying or selling property with a sewer system. If you are considering buying or selling property with a septic system, you should know what a septic inspection entails and why it is such an important step in the real estate transaction.
What is a septic inspection?
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, more than one in every five residences in the United States is equipped with a septic system of their own. Your toilet, shower, sinks, and washing machines all produce wastewater that must be treated and disposed of by these systems. Despite the fact that they are built for long-term durability, structural difficulties in septic systems can emerge. The most prevalent of these problems include obstructions in plumbing or blocked parts of the drainfield, among other things.
As a result, after submitting an offer on a property, house buyers generally employ a third-party pre-sale inspection to assess the septic system.
Using the services of an authorized septic inspection firm is required in order to examine your septic system in an appropriate and safe manner.
You will receive an in-depth written report documenting the present conditions within the tank, the severity of any leaks surrounding the site, and an estimate of the remaining lifetime of your septic system after the septic inspector has completed his or her inspection of your property.
What happens during a septic inspection?
A septic inspection will take place depending on the sort of septic inspection you have paid for (don’t worry, we’ll go over this in more detail later). Most septic inspections, on the other hand, will begin with a visual examination of your septic tank, followed by a simple loading and dye test. In the course of the visual examination, an inspector will get access to your septic system by opening the manhole in your septic tank and capturing many high-resolution photographs of the interior. It is necessary to do a loading and dye test in order to determine whether any dye-treated wastewater has leaked into your septic system and to investigate the area surrounding the tank for any dye-treated wastewater leaks.
This includes everything from the electrical components and mechanical plumbing to the effluent filters and scum and sludge levels.
How often should you schedule a septic inspection?
Our recommendation is that you get your septic system tested at least once every five years if you want to increase your chances of spotting any problems early on. During this same time period, you should also contact a septic tank and drainfield pumping provider to have your tank and drainfield cleaned.
Types of Septic Inspections
It is possible to choose between four distinct septic inspection levels, which range from a simple visual examination to a comprehensive pumping, soil, and engineering evaluation. While higher-grade septic inspections are more expensive and time-consuming, they are your best bet for detecting faults with the system’s performance or possible risks at an early stage. We’ve included a brief description of each sort of inspection level below to help you have a better understanding of the advantages and disadvantages of each.
Level 0 Septic Inspection
Level 0 septic inspections, also known as visual-only inspections, can be done by a professional home inspector and consist of a visual examination of the septic system, as well as, in certain situations, a rapid loading and dye test, among other things. Important: Please keep in mind that certain communities do not permit home inspectors to work on or examine septic systems; if this is the case in your community, you will need to contact a professional, third-party septic contractor for assistance.
Level 1 Septic Inspections
The effluent screens and waste pipes will be assessed only to a limited extent during a level 1 septic inspection performed by a septic inspector. For example, in some states, state law mandates that all waste must be removed from the septic tank prior to doing a level 1 examination.
Level 2 Septic Inspections
A level 2 septic inspection entails a detailed examination of the conditions inside your septic tank, as well as the surrounding area. Apart from checking the thickness of the scum layer that forms over the effluent, they will also look for leaks or cracks in the distribution boxes that carry the sewage.
The rigors of a level 2 inspection necessitate the requirement that the tank be pumped prior to the inspection by practically all level 2 septic companies.
Level 3 Septic Inspections
A level 3 septic inspection is the most in-depth form of examination available on the market right now. Level 3 inspectors will look at the soil conditions around the septic leaching area and drainfield in addition to everything else that was covered in the previous levels of inspection (levels 0, 1, and 2).
Who pays for the septic inspections?
Septic inspections are similarly priced to building and pest inspections, with the expense of the inspection being borne by the prospective buyer. While particular fees can vary depending on your region and the degree of inspection you choose, the majority of purchasers should anticipate to pay between $260 and $420 for a septic inspection performed by a qualified septic specialist in the majority of cases.
Should you get septic inspections when buying a house?
Absolutely! In order to provide purchasers (or current homeowners) with accurate information regarding the general state of a home’s septic system, septic inspections are performed on an annual basis or as needed. Keep in mind that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Septic system problems may be identified early, which can save you thousands of dollars in repair or replacement costs. If at all feasible, you should schedule your septic inspections at the same time as the general property inspection to ensure that you are aware of any concerns with the plumbing or septic system prior to finalizing the transaction.
When agents compete for your business, you win.
Ready to Buy? Connect With an UpNest Partner Agent Today!
If you’re considering purchasing a home that includes an integrated septic system, there are a few considerations to bear in mind. To be on the safe side, you’ll want to know how old the system is and when it was last examined, as well as if it has ever required repairs or encountered any standing water problems in the past. This is a lot of information to keep track of while you’re looking for a home, and it may be overwhelming. You should consult with an expert UpNest partner agent if you want to be sure you’re receiving the complete picture and that your interests as a buyer are being adequately represented.
- You will be guided through every stage of the home-buying process by your buyer’s agent, from negotiating closing fees to contacting septic inspection firms once you have chosen UpNest as your real estate partner.
- UpNesti is a free service that helps house sellers and buyers identify the most qualified real estate agents in their area.
- Our agents have been thoroughly verified and frequently provide reasonable commission rates that are lower than the industry average to UpNest clients.
- You may get started right now by entering your zipcode in the box below!
- Septic systems operate by separating waste into three layers: solids, effluent, and scum.
- Solids sink to the bottom of the container, where microbes breakdown them.
- What are the differences between the two types of septic systems?
There are two types of septic systems: conventional septic systems and alternative septic systems. In most cases, the sort of system that should be installed is determined by the site and soil characteristics.
Buying a House? Make Sure You Get a Septic System Inspection!
If you are in the process of purchasing a home, you are aware that there are several phases involved in the process. You put money together for a down payment, go to open houses, chat to sellers and real estate agents, and ultimately discover a place you love to call home. The exciting part is about to begin. There are several steps involved: making an offer, getting pre-approval, scheduling a home inspection, and eventually, after heaps of paperwork, claiming ownership of the property. But hold on a minute!
- You might be asking why you would need to get your septic system inspected.
- Septic systems that are in poor working order can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars to repair or replace.
- When a roof leak occurs or a break in the foundation occurs, you would want to be aware of the situation.
- “All OK, but I’ve already completed a house inspection and a dye test.” “Doesn’t that suffice?” While these inspections may be sufficient to meet the criteria of a lender, they are insufficient to provide a full evaluation of a septic system.
What is a septic system inspection?
Performing a septic system inspection entails a thorough examination of all of the components of a septic system. The inspector will determine the location and condition of the septic tank, distribution box, and absorption area and make recommendations. In this process, he will uncover and evaluate all of the mechanical and electrical components of the system, including septic lines, baffles and filters, pumps and floats, alarms, and so on. During the inspection, he will open the septic tank (digging up the lids, if required) in order to check the wastewater sources from the home to the septic tank and physically inspect the septic tank at its operational level, according to the manufacturer’s specifications.
If the home has been vacant for an extended period of time or if the number of people living in the home is expected to increase, the inspector will conduct a hydraulic load test to determine whether the septic system’s absorption area is capable of handling the anticipated daily wastewater volume of the home buyer’s family.
For septic systems in Pennsylvania, this implies that the inspector must have received training and certification from the Pennsylvania Septage Management Association (PSMA), which has created a set of requirements for an objective septic system assessment.
Each PSMA septic system inspection finishes with the delivery of a thorough report.
However, while this analysis does not provide a guarantee, the findings drawn from it may be able to save you thousands of dollars in septic system repairs or replacement.
If you do not have a PSMA inspection and report, you run the danger of inheriting the financial burden of substantial septic system repairs or perhaps the installation of a whole new system completely.
Septic System Inspection vs. Home Inspection
Inspections of the inside and exterior of a home are performed by professionals who are well-versed in the identification of typical faults. They will inform you if there are any evident issues with the roof, windows, electrical system, interior plumbing, foundation, or any other visible components of the house. A house inspection, on the other hand, is just a visual assessment that is non-invasive. Consequently, house inspectors only report on the components of the home that they can physically see, and nothing else.
- This implies that the septic system is not included in the scope of a standard house inspection.
- There is a good chance that they may flush the toilets a few times to ensure that the system is not actively backing up, and they may even remove the cover from the septic tank (if they can find it).
- How can a home inspector tell you what condition your septic tank is in if there isn’t a pump truck available to empty it?
- Despite the fact that home inspectors are well-versed in many aspects of the property, they are neither equipped nor prepared to conduct a thorough examination of a septic system.
- Rely on a PSMA inspector that specializes in septic systems to provide you with the most thorough and insightful septic system inspection available.
Septic System Inspection vs. Dye Test
Dyes are used in a dye test to check that wastewater is appropriately routed into the septic tank and not elsewhere on the land. Dyes are brightly colored and non-toxic, and they are safe to use. In layman’s terms, a dye test demonstrates that water can travel from point A to point B. At the time of a dye test, a technician will flush dye tablets down the toilet and down the drain, check to verify that the right wastewater sources are entering the septic tank, and walk about the property looking for dye.
In the absence of a dye test, it is impossible to determine the size or condition of a septic tank.
Dye tests provide little information on the operation of critical septic system components such as baffles, pumps, floats, and alarms, among others.
When purchasing a property, don’t take a chance on a future filled with septic system failures and expensive repairs.
For a complete septic system inspection, rely on the PSMA-certified inspectors at Hapchuk, Inc. to conduct the work for you. Our professionals will supply you with all of the information and help you want in order to confidently acquire a house that has a septic system installed.
What is a Septic Tank Inspection? Do I Need It?
Everyone has undoubtedly heard the expression “it’s a filthy job, but someone has to do it.” After all, failure to periodically examine and repair your septic tank may result in a slew of unpleasant tasks to complete – and that’s not at all nice! Now, let’s take a look at what aseptic system inspection comprises and why it’s necessary.
The reasons for needing a septic tank inspection
You’ll almost always need to get your home’s septic system checked if you’re attempting to sell it. The same is true if you’re looking to purchase a home that has a septic system. When acquiring or selling a home, an aseptic inspection is a standard practice, and it is an unwritten law that the buyer must pay an inspector to do the inspection on their behalf. Pests will be checked for, and the septic system of the house will be inspected as part of this examination. Due to the fact that this is one of the most crucial components of your new home, you really require it.
- These inspections are neither expensive nor time-consuming, and as a result, they should be conducted on a regular basis.
- It’s possible that it will be too late by then.
- It filters the water and then distributes it, with the primary purpose of reducing soil and water pollution in the surrounding environment.
- It is vital to inspect and pump your tank on a regular basis to ensure that it is in good functioning condition as well as healthy.
- Furthermore, there is little question that this will be a wise investment in the long term.
The types of septic inspections
Septic inspections may be divided into two categories:
- Visual inspections– These are normally performed by a home inspector when a house is being sold or purchased, and they include asking questions about the property and the house, such as when the previous inspection was performed, and so on. By running water and flushing all of the toilets in the property, the inspector may determine whether or not the water pressure in the house has been compromised. Cesspools, standing water, and the drain field will all be checked by the inspector as part of his inspection. This form of examination is quick and convenient, but it cannot tell you much about the condition of your septic tank, including whether it is healthy and safe. Full inspection is nearly identical to visual inspection, with the exception that it involves a considerably more extensive inspection. This is carried out by professionals and highly trained specialists who are equipped with the necessary equipment and tools for the job. The time period during which inspectors examine the water level in your septic tank to assess whether or not the water is draining properly. Additionally, they will do a few of checks to ensure that everything is in working condition before they proceed with the pumping.
The need for regular septic tank inspections cannot be overstated, as these inspections not only save you money, but they also help to keep you and your family, as well as your property, healthy and safe. Get in touch with us right away for more information or to schedule your next septic inspection.
Septic Inspections: 6 Questions You Need to Ask
You might be wondering why you would need a septic check before you put your house on the market. Alternatively, are you purchasing a new home that has a septic system? Get professional information on septic systems and collaborate with a seasoned real estate agent throughout the process. Prospective home buyers typically engage an inspector to do a thorough assessment of the property before making an offer on it. The examination will typically involve a visual evaluation of the house’s structure as well as a search for pests.
Septic inspections are extremely important for your health and the health of anybody else who lives in your house, so homeowners should make a point of scheduling them on a regular basis.
In case you are buying or selling a home, the septic inspection will be an important part of the process. Here is all you need to know about it.
Need help in the home selling process?
An experienced Partner Agent can assist you in navigating the choppy waters of business.
What is a septic system?
One in every five homes in the United States is equipped with a septic system, yet you’d be shocked how many people are unaware of what they are. A septic system is a system that is designed to remove waste from a home or building. During normal operation, it collects and filters water and garbage from the washer, sinks, showers, and toilets before returning it to the sink. The mechanism then re-distributes the energy back into the earth. The entire procedure contributes to the reduction of water and soil pollution.
The septic tank is where the water and trash from the residence are disposed of.
The liquid rises to the top of the container and passes through an absorption zone.
A layer of gravel serves as a drain field, allowing water to pass through it before entering the soil.
How often should you get a septic inspection?
A septic tank inspection is recommended at least once every three to five years, according to the majority of professionals. The examination normally takes place around the same time that you should have your septic tank pumped by a professional septic tank cleaning provider. In order to keep your septic tank healthy and in excellent functioning order, it is required to pump it regularly. Even though professionals recommend that homeowners get their septic tanks tested every five years, many homeowners wait considerably longer than this period.
At that point, inspectors will frequently recommend that you repair or replace your septic system, which can cost thousands of dollars if not done properly.
It can cost as much as $25,000, depending on the location of the system and the terrain of the land where the new system is being installed on the new system.
How is a septic inspection done?
Septic inspections may be divided into two categories.
Visual Inspections
If you are buying or selling a home, the home inspector will most likely do a visual assessment of the property. In order to do a visual examination, a few questions must be asked, such as the age of the house, how often the owner pumps the septic system, and when the previous inspection was performed. The inspector will next flush all of the toilets in the house and run all of the water in the house to ensure that the water pressure is enough and that everything is draining correctly. At the end of the inspection, the inspector will walk out to the drain field to ensure that there is no standing water, which might indicate the presence of a cesspool.
Even though a visual examination is convenient and quick, a comprehensive inspection may provide you with a more complete picture of the overall condition of the septic system.
Full Inspections
A thorough inspection contains all that a visual inspection does, but it also goes above and beyond that level of service. This is the inspection you’ll want to have done every three to five years, at the absolute least. Inspectors will remove the lid from the septic tank and assess the amount of water in the tank during a comprehensive examination. The level of the water might indicate whether or not the water is draining adequately. The inspector will next run water through the home to ensure that it is correctly draining from the house to the septic tank and that the water level within the tank does not rise as a result of the additional water being introduced into the system.
Dye tests are conducted to determine how much dye is incorporated into the water that is draining and how much of it makes its way into the sewage treatment plant.
Inspecting the backflow level will reveal whether or not there is an issue with your drain field.
How much do septic inspections cost?
The cost of a septic inspection varies based on the level of detail with which they check the tank and the size of the tank, but for a 1,000-1,500 gallon tank, a comprehensive examination normally costs $300 to $600. Remember to inquire with your local health department to see if they provide inspections at a reduced rate. Keep in mind that the cost of evaluating your septic system may vary depending on who or what firm is doing the inspection. In certain areas (such as Texas), you are not need to obtain a license or certification order in order to examine sewage treatment plants.
A license in a number of sectors, both within their state and on a national level, will be held by the most competent inspectors.
How long do septic systems last?
Septic systems may endure for up to 25 years — and in some circumstances, indefinitely — depending on the conditions. Maintaining the system is critical to its overall performance and reliability. If you get your concrete septic tank inspected on a regular basis and make repairs as needed, it can endure for a lifetime or even longer.
Should I repair or replace my septic system?
Depending on the circumstances, septic systems can endure for up to 25 years or even indefinitely. Maintaining the system is critical to its overall performance. The lifespan of a concrete septic tank may be extended to more than a lifetime if it is subjected to frequent examinations and repairs as needed.
Puddles in Your Yard
A smart option is to have an inspector come out and assess your septic system if there is any standing water in your yard over your septic system.
Take precautions to keep yourself and your animals away from the water, since it may be contaminated with hazardous substances.
Backups
Having a significant number of plumbing backups is a symptom that something is wrong with your septic system. It might be anything as simple as a small repair or as complex as a complete tank replacement, among other things. In either case, an inspector will be required to determine the situation.
Healthy Grass
If the grass over your septic area is greener than the grass in other sections of your yard, it’s time to get your septic system inspected and cleaned. In the event that a septic system begins to fail, it releases more water into the ground, which might benefit your plant life but can also be hazardous to human health.
Results of an Inspection
Unless your assessment reveals tainted well water or irreversible damage to the septic tank itself, you will almost certainly need to replace your system.
How to Maintain Your Septic System
Tampons, paper towels, baby wipes, and any other foreign materials that cannot break down readily in your septic system should never be flushed down the toilet to ensure that your septic system lasts as long as possible. If you have a garbage disposal, use it to help break down any food that would otherwise block the pipes in your home. Make sure you never throw oil down the sink since it might clog up the septic tank and cause it to overflow. Try to choose a laundry detergent that is also safe to use with septic systems.
You should make certain that your sump pump is not connected to your septic system before starting.
Selling a House with a Septic System
Some counties do not need a septic examination prior to a home sale, however others demand a thorough investigation before a home sale. Check with your county’s health department to see whether you are required to have a septic examination performed prior to selling your home. Completing your own pre-inspection might also assist you in identifying any potential problems. If the seller is aware of any concerns with the septic system, the law compels them to provide this information to the buyer before closing.
Both sellers and purchasers are perplexed as to who is ultimately responsible for repairing damage to the septic system.
Buying a House with a Septic System
Purchasing a home with a septic system necessitates answering a few questions. Here are some of the most important:
- What is the age of the house
- When was the last time you had your septic tank examined and pumped? Have you had any septic tank back-ups or standing water problems? Whether or if the septic tank has been repaired is unclear.
In addition, you’ll want to make certain that a third-party inspector does a comprehensive examination. When hiring an inspector, it may be tempting to hire someone who will go through the inspection fast and sign off with a gold star. However, you may end yourself acquiring a property that has a slew of issues down the future as a result of this decision. If you want assistance in locating a reputable inspector, your realtor will most likely be able to provide suggestions. In general, septic systems are quite efficient, as long as they are properly maintained.
You may also keep it in good condition by not flushing any non-biodegradable or harmful substances down your toilet.
Instead of doing it yourself, why not consult with a professional? For a nominal flat fee, experienced real estate agents can assist you in making the selling process as painless as possible. To get started, please call us at 1-833-2-CLEVER or fill out our online form today.
Related Articles
Nick Gromicko, CMI®, and Kenton Shepard wrote this article. A septic system is a system that collects, processes, and disposes of waste water and solids that are generated by a building’s plumbing system. When the solids are partially broken down into sludge, they are separated from the liquid effluent (water) and scum in a septic tank (fat, oil and grease). Effluent is discharged from the tank on a regular basis into a drainfield, where it is naturally filtered by microorganisms and re-enters the groundwater supply.
The septic system should be tested at least once a year, and it should be done immediately before putting the house on the market for sale.
Prospective home buyers who have not recently had their septic system checked should insist on having the system checked before they acquire the property, since it is in their best interests.
When it comes time to examine or pump the tank, this is typically not a problem.
- The placement of the tank should be depicted on a “as-built” design of the home. These designs are frequently kept on file by municipal health and zoning departments. It is possible that older systems do not have such a record. It is possible to get in touch with the prior owner
- Modern tanks are equipped with risers that protrude clearly above the ground surface. It is possible to probe a suspicious location using a thin metal rod that has been placed into the soil. It is critical to do this carefully and only on soft, damp soil in order to prevent harming the tank and its accompanying pipelines. Another option is to use a shovel, although this will need a little more effort. If a sufficient number of tank components are made of metal, a metal detector can be utilized. A tiny radio transmitter that can be flushed down the toilet and followed by a receiver can be used to communicate. The grass that grows the most lushly in a yard is frequently seen just over the sewage tank. Snow melts more quickly above the tank than it does in the rest of the yard. While they are not failsafe techniques of finding a place, they have been shown to be beneficial in the past.
What kinds of things may InterNACHI inspectors be looking for?
- Find out when the tank was last pumped by looking at the date on the tank. The sludge level should ultimately indicate if a tank has to be pumped, although having a record of past pumping dates might be useful as a reference. Using a “sludge judge” or a similar instrument, determine the amount of sludge present. It is normal for sludge to collect on the tank bottom, but it should not take up more than one-third of the tank’s total capacity or climb to the level of the baffles. The septic tank and drainfield should be located far away from wells and streams, for obvious reasons. Make certain that the system is large enough to accommodate the household it serves. A 1,200-gallon tank is normally required for a four-bedroom house, for example. The number of people that live in the house determines the size of the tank that is necessary. The tank’s capacity in gallons may be computed based on the size of the tank. For rectangular tanks, the capacity in gallons is equal to the product of the length, breadth, and depth in feet multiplied by 7.5. For circular tanks, the capacity in gallons is calculated as 3.14 times the radius squared x the depth in feet multiplied by 7.5. Check the ground surface for any liquid waste that has found its way to the surface. This is an unclean state that signals that the system is overburdened and needs to be repaired. In order to prevent wastewater contamination of groundwater and groundwater from flowing into the tank and causing it to overfill, make certain that it is waterproof. The presence of a riser lid should be checked for cracks and the integrity of the lid should be checked as well. Check to see that the baffles are securely attached to the tank’s inlet and exit pipes. It is recommended that each drain line receives the same quantity of wastewater. By opening the distribution box, you will be able to see what they are made of. If the box becomes tipped or blocked, it will distribute effluent in an excessively large amount, and it may even flood areas of the drainfield.
In a septic tank, baffles are components that restrict wastewater entry to a sufficient degree to guarantee that particles are distilled and that solids (as well as scum) are not discharged into the drainfield. It is via this process that they are able to protect the soil’s absorptive quality and hence extend the life of the entire system. They are often constructed of the same materials as the septic tank, which might be fiberglass, steel, or concrete in construction. Inspectors should look for the following things in baffles:
- The baffle is covered in solids. This should be reported as soon as possible because it implies overflow. There is evidence of prior overflow due to chemical and water erosion. Ideally, the sewage level should be several inches below the baffle top of the drain. A lower level implies leakage, whereas a greater level indicates obstruction.
Inspectors should be familiar with the following facts so that they may advise their clients about the various ways in which they might cause harm to their septic system:
- The only thing that can be flushed down the toilet is bath tissue. Tampons, paper towels, cigarette butts, and diapers should all be disposed of in the garbage. In order to prevent microorganisms in the septic system from being damaged by household chemicals such as gasoline, paint, medicine, antifreeze, or pesticides from being flushed, they should never be put down the toilet or down the sink. In little volumes, detergents and bleach can make their way into the plumbing system. There should be no driving on or near the drainfield unless absolutely necessary. Their weight might cause damage to subsurface plumbing without them realizing it. There should be no other vegetation grown over the septic tank and drainfield. Roots from trees and huge bushes can create harm that is not visible. People are not permitted to excavate or construct structures on top of a drainfield. Ensure that any water drainage from rains, sump pumps, or any other source of surface water is routed away from the drainfield. An over-saturated drainfield can cause the water treatment process to be slowed down and plumbing fittings to get clogged. Fixing leaking faucets and toilets as soon as they occur is a simple method to extend the life of a septic system and avoid having to pay for an expensive replacement. Any waste of water in the home should be avoided at all costs. Taking shorter showers and avoiding using the garbage disposal are two examples of strategies to conserve water.
- It is not recommended that inspectors enter the septic tank to search for cracks. Tank interiors are extremely filthy, and entering should be avoided at all costs. The fracture will most likely be located at the level of the effluent, which will have drained from the tank via the crack if one is there. An effluent level that is much lower than the level of the tank outflow is a clear indicator of the presence of a fracture. A tank that has flaws that enable sewage to escape into the surrounding soil is effectively a cesspool and should be removed as soon as possible
- If the water comes from the tank, it indicates that the septic system is overburdened and has to be repaired. Sometimes, inspectors will use a dye that is flushed down the toilet to confirm that the water is coming from the residence and not from somewhere else. Despite the fact that this metric might be beneficial, it is not an accepted means of testing the operation of a septic system. A malfunctioning septic system will be confirmed if dye from the flushed dye shows in the puddle
- However, a working septic system is not guaranteed if dye does not appear. It may take many days for the dye to develop, and it may be too diluted to see properly
- It is outside the scope of a standard house inspection to evaluate a septic system, and this needs specialized skills. Laws differ from one jurisdiction to the next, and inspectors should be well-versed in them before providing this job. They should disclaim all responsibility for any component of the septic system examination that they did not do
Septic systems are meant to manage hazardous waste, and they may pose major health risks to both residents and inspectors if they are not properly maintained. Precautions include the following, in no particular order:
- Solid waste should be removed from septic tanks by a professional septic tank pumping service, not by an inspector. No one else should be allowed to enter a tank unless they are a licensed and properly equipped professional. Noxious gasses such as methane can induce asphyxiation and death in a matter of minutes. When a septic tank begins to exhibit indications of fragility, proceed with extreme caution! Collapse has the potential to be deadly. Keep an eye out for tanks with rusted metal, improvised lids, or anything else that seems to be in unsafe condition.
In conclusion, septic system inspections should be conducted on a yearly basis to verify that the system is operating properly. The septic tank is the most expensive household fixture, and it will have a much shorter lifespan if it is not properly cared for and maintained.
Is a septic inspection really necessary?
Every year, more than 5 million residences are purchased and sold. A large number of such purchases take place in cities and suburbs where residences are connected to municipal sewage networks. In rural regions, on the other hand, a large number of residences change ownership. Rural residences, in contrast to their urban and suburban counterparts, do not have access to municipal sewage systems. Instead, they rely on septic tanks to dispose of their waste water. The concept of a septic inspection may be alien to those who are unfamiliar with septic tanks.
For more information on if or when you should get your septic tank inspected, please continue reading this article. We’ll go through what a septic inspection is and when it’s a good idea to have one performed on your property.
What Is a Septic Inspection?
Visual septic inspections and complete septic inspections are the two basic types of septic inspections.
Visual
During a visual examination, the inspector will operate faucets and flush toilets to ensure that everything is working properly. This allows them to determine whether the toilets are performing sluggishly or whether any other slow drainage issues have occurred. In essence, the inspector pushes the septic system to see if it’s operating properly, or not. They will also do a walk-through in the area surrounding the septic tank itself, looking for evidence of leakage or overflow.
Full
A comprehensive inspection is a more time-consuming procedure. In addition, the inspector will instruct the system to check for telltale symptoms of malfunction. They will also inspect the inside of the tank for obstructions and examine the connection that links the home to the tank for leaks or other problems. In the majority of circumstances, the examination will entail a pumping out of the storage tank. More information about inspections and pumps may be found here.
Why Would You Need a Septic Inspection?
There are two major reasons why people obtain septic inspections. One explanation is that unmistakable indicators of septic system issues appear, such as the following:
- A foul odor in the vicinity of toilets or drains
- In your yard, there is a recurring puddle of water
- Drainage is sluggish.
In addition, the house will be put on the market shortly after this is written. A visual examination will normally be performed as part of a regular house inspection. This helps to ensure prospective home buyers that their septic system will not cause them any difficulties in the future. After all, most individuals are not interested in purchasing a home that would need quick repairs to the septic system.
Septic Inspection Cost
In addition, the house will be put on the market shortly after this article was published. A visual examination will be performed as part of the normal home inspection process. When potential house buyers see this, they are more confident that the septic system will not cause them difficulties. For one thing, the majority of people do not want to buy a property that would require quick septic system repairs.
Is a Septic Inspection Necessary?
Yes, there are situations when a septic inspection is required. Septic systems do not operate without interruption for an indefinite period of time. They will eventually reach their capacity. When they become overflowing, you should expect drainage issues as well as terrible odors in the vicinity of your drains and toilets. A visual investigation may identify obstructions. The septic pumping service can usually address the majority of issues. When you are planning to sell your property, it is also a good idea to get it inspected.
They feel more secure as a result of the examination.
Check out our Real Estate section for more information.
A Septic System Inspection Should Be Done How Often?! Costs, Precautions, and More
You may have put off, and then put off again, a septic system check as one of those home maintenance duties. Because septic systems are located underground in the backyard, they are frequently out of sight and, thus, out of mind. However, allowing it to go through too many flushes without inspecting it might result in some serious issues if the system fails. Additionally, if you want to sell your property, you will need to have your septic system inspected.
Even if you haven’t decided whether or not to sell your home, maintaining your septic system in good working order will save you thousands of dollars in repair costs if something goes wrong with it. Here’s everything a homeowner needs to know about septic system inspections in one convenient place.
How often should you get a septic system inspection?
According to experts, you should get your septic system inspected every three years. However, here’s a dose of realism to consider: According to Alex Glaser, a real estate agent in Richmond, Virginia, most homeowners do not get their septic systems tested until there is a significant problem with them. However, this means that residents only receive an inspection when concerns that might indicate major problems develop, such as when the toilet backs up, water takes an excessive amount of time to drain, or there is a septic system leak in the first place.
Additionally, three years is the maximum length of time you should allow your septic system to continue without being emptied out of the system.
Keeping your septic system in good working order is especially crucial if you intend to sell the house.
Who should perform a septic system inspection?
For the examination, you’ll want to employ a reputable septic contractor with extensive experience. According to Robert Boudreau of Metro-West Appraisal and Home Inspections in Detroit, general home inspectors only perform a limited, visual check of the septic system at the time of the inspection. In addition to looking for cracks in the tank, which are indicated by a low level of liquid, a septic contractor will measure the quantity of solids contained within the tank, using a device known as a “sludge judge,” and examine for any ground contamination.
How much does a septic system inspection cost?
Prices vary depending on how thorough the septic examination is performed as well as the tank capacity, which is typically between 1,000 or 1,500 gallons. However, according to Boudreau, a simple septic system assessment normally costs between $300 and $600. You may also inquire with your local health department to see whether the department offers inspections at a discounted rate for a fee.
Is the home seller or buyer obligated to get an inspection?
Because of where you reside, the person who is responsible for doing the inspection is determined. It is the purchasers’ obligation to manage inspections throughout their option period in places such as South Carolina and Texas, and this is considered part of their due diligence, unless otherwise agreed upon. In Central Virginia, the normal purchase agreement contract specifies that it is the obligation of the house seller to have the septic system examined within 30 days of the closing date of the transaction.
Finally, inquire with your local real estate agent about your responsibilities in regards to the septic system inspection. Conclusion
Is the seller obligated to fix any septic problems?
In most cases, the seller is responsible for the cost of septic system repairs. Repairs of any sort discovered during the inspection, on the other hand, are usually negotiable. Sellers usually have a limited number of options when it comes to making repairs, but they may be able to do so by performing the repairs themselves, splitting repair costs with the buyer, providing the buyer with a closing credit equal to the amount of the repairs, or simply refusing to do anything. If no agreement on repairs can be reached, the buyer has the legal right to walk away from the sale at any time.
Don’t forget about disclosure
Prospective purchasers are entitled to know about any known faults with a house if the seller discloses them to them in all states. If there is a septic problem after the closing that the sellers were aware of, they will be accountable for the whole cost of the repairs, plus interest. As a result, according to Jerry Grodesky, managing broker at Farm and Lake Houses Real Estate in Loda, IL, it is best practice for all sellers to do their own septic system examination. This manner, he continues, “the seller is safeguarded from any potential septic concerns that may arise after the closing.”
Is a Septic Inspection Really Necessary? – Real Estate Sarasota & Manateee Counties
Please have a look at the graphic below to obtain a rough concept of how a septic system operates before continuing.
The Inspection Period Begins…
You’re overjoyed with the prospect of putting that specific house under contract! You’ve entered the Inspection Period and are conducting due diligence to ensure that the property is all you anticipated it to be. Instead of a municipal sewage system, a septic system has been erected on this particular property. You’ve just finished paying the house inspector, and you’re wondering whether or not you should also have a septic check performed. After all, the toilets appear to be flushing properly, and the water appears to be going down the drains without any problems.
Septic Inspections are Not Required, but Strongly Recommended
It is ultimately up to you whether or not to get your septic system inspected. It is not something that is normally needed by the lender unless the FHA/VA appraiser has identified it as a possible concern in their appraisal report. There are a few things to think about while making this decision. The age of the home, whether or not it has been empty for an extended length of time, and whether or not the tank has been serviced on a regular basis. Even if all of those elements appear to be in working order, I would highly urge that you get your septic system tested due to a problem that one of my purchasers encountered early in my real estate business.
Read What Happened to My Buyers…
My purchasers were able to find what looked to be the perfect property for their needs. As a bank-owned property, my purchasers were able to outbid their competitors and take possession of the property. They promptly scheduled an inspection with their home inspector and began the process of inspecting the house. Despite the fact that the report had multiple concerns, none of them were deal breakers. Because of the house’s age, which was built in the 1960s, the home inspector suggested that the purchasers have their septic system inspected.
Thank goodness my purchasers heeded the recommendations of the home inspector and had the septic system tested before purchasing the property.
In addition, there were many enormous Grandfather Oak trees in the backyard, and the root system had taken over the whole backyard as well as infiltrated the drainfield.
Buyers still loved and desired the house, but they were now confronted with the expense of replacing the septic system or determining whether or not the bank would cover the cost of the repair or replace the septic system.
How Would You Like to Have a Mortgage on a Home that was Uninhabitable?
Prior to requesting that the bank rebuild the system, we discovered that the county had specific criteria for the needed distance between a well and a septic system, which we followed. I believe they had to be at least 75 feet apart (I’m not sure whether they were precisely 75 feet apart, but it was near to that distance). The difficulty was that this specific property was not large enough to accommodate a 75-foot separation between the well pump and the septic system.
Yes, I think Septic Inspections are Necessary
If my purchasers had continued with the purchase of this home without first doing a septic inspection, they would have ended up with a house that was uninhabitable and a substantial debt to pay off in the process! So, if you ask me, I believe that septic system checks are well worth the money!
| Julie Larson PalmerHouse Properties941-882-0322Contact Me |