Did you know a general home inspector normally does not have the knowledge to properly inspect your septic system and drainfields? When you are buying a home with a septic system, it is important to know what shape the system is in.
Do I need to have my tank pumped before a septic inspection?
We will determine during our inspection whether or not your tank needs to be pumped.
How does a septic real estate inspection work?
In order to properly inspect your septic system, we first open up your tank. This allows us to see the condition of the Outlet-T (where the sewer water flows from the tank to the distribution box) and check the levels of the tank. At this time we will determine whether or not your tank will need to be cleaned.
If someone is home, we will have them flush a toilet. This will help us confirm the working order of the Inlet-T (or how waste from your house runs into the tank).
The next step is probably the most important step in the process: we dig up the distribution box. We look and make sure there are no cracks or sludge in the box and check to make sure it is distributing the water properly into your drainfield. If there is sludge or roots in the box this can be a sign of overuse and it will need to be cleaned more frequently. Generally distribution boxes will last 25-30 years. If there are cracks or defects it will need to be replaced.
Last we core or drill the drainfield. We use an auger and take sample of the drainfield. We are looking for damp or dry samples. If there is any sludge or roots in the drainfield it may need to be repaired.
If at all during the inspection process we find problems will we help you contact the health department and obtain any necessary permits to get your system repaired.