Septic Inspections -

Why should the septic system be inspected and pumped before purchasing a home?

Because this is one of the largest systems in the home and when it is not working properly, or stops working, life can become very uncomfortable. Many home buyers are familiar with having a home inspected for the roof, ac/hvac, termites, etc. However it’s important to also have the home’s septic system inspected and have the septic tank pumped out by a septic system professional. A septic inspection and pump will tell you it’s location, condition and start a maintenance schedule.

Next Step

First, before having the inspection, ask for a printout of the septic system. This shows the location of the septic tank and field lines. There should be a map on record at the county office; your real estate agent may be able to assist you with this step. Next, contact Allgood Sewer and Septic Tank Service, or a professional septic company in your area, to schedule the inspection and provide them with a copy of the printout. Once the inspection is completed you will know important details about the septic system.

What is a Septic Inspection?

The inspection will tell you where the septic tank is located and where the field lines are located.
Is anyone living in the home now? Yes. That is helpful because the water level in the tank will help the septic technician determine how well the field lines are working.
If the house is vacant, how long has it been empty? Systems that are not working properly may appear to be fine if the house is empty and no one has been using water on a daily basis.
When the tank is opened the water level is checked.
Once the contents are pumped the structural integrity and the baffle should be checked.
If possible, a commode in the house should be flushed so the technician can verify water is getting into the septic tank properly.
The pipes under the house are looked at to make sure the plumbing looks good to the main sewer line to tank.
The yard is walked around to determine the location of the field lines, looking for wet spots or any evidence of affluent (sewage) coming to the surface recently
A report or receipt with the details on the inspection should be given to the client paying for the service.
System passed, the buyer now has a record of when to begin regular maintenance schedule
System failed, the buyer now decides whether to look for a different home or decide how to address the issue in negotiations

Buyer now has a new home with a septic report, what does this mean?

Congratulations! 1 in 5 homes in the US have a septic system and there are a few things to keep in mind about how to care for your septic system to keep it working properly for many years. The report gives you the location so you know:

Don’t drive over the septic tank. It could cave in, yes it really can happen!
Don’t drive over the field lines. This can cause the field lines can be crushed and stop working.
Don’t build a driveway, deck or patio over the septic system. This will make maintenance very difficult and if you have any issues it can be costly to get to the system.
Keep trees and shrubs away from the system. Their roots can get into the tank and field lines and prevent the system from working properly.

For more tips and information on septic system check these articles out

Allgood is licensed septic installer and pumper in the state of Tennessee. When we perform a septic system inspection we provide a report with our findings. Most homes do pass inspections, however not all of them do. This is disappointing to the potential buyer but has saved them thousands of dollars.

We have had the pleasure to work with home buyers, moving here, from all over the country. Our service makes the transaction simple, efficient and easy for customers unable to be on-site, or in the state, at the time of service. If you are in need of an inspection and septic pump-out call the professionals today at 615-672-6969.