If you are buying or selling a home, a septic system inspection is worth considering.
Although it may not always be required, a septic inspection will provide insight regarding the current condition of the septic system.
We offer a variety of options for septic system inspections, from measuring the level of sludge and scum in the tank to full service dig and pumps. Or, we can simply check the water flow to the tank through the cleanout pipe. Each of our inspections will verify the integrity and function of the septic system and drain field and ensure that excessive backflow from the drain field to the septic tank is not occurring.
Internal Inspections
An internal inspection of a septic system consists of conducting an external flow inspection, as well as pumping, cleaning and inspecting the inside of the tank. This type of inspection involves unearthing the tank, which means digging up the yard, unless the tank has risers.*
Once excavated, the tank is pumped and cleaned so that it can be inspected completely. The tank, the baffles/tees, and inlet and outlet pipes are inspected for water leakage and corrosion. The drain field is also inspected to make sure water is not seeping to the surface and that the distribution box is working properly.
*Risers are extensions added to septic tanks to raise the height of the septic tank lids to ground level, providing easy access to the tank and inspection ports. If the tank does not have risers, it is a good idea to install them when excavating the tank, otherwise accessing the tank in the future will require unearthing the tank again.
Tank Contents Measuring
Instead of pumping and cleaning the tank, our experts can measure the level of sludge and scum in the tank to determine the free space remaining for wastewater. Pumping is recommended when the total depth of the scum plus the sludge layers equals one-third of the depth of the tank.
The visible portions of the tank are inspected for water leakage and corrosion, and the drain field is also inspected.
Post Inspection System Fail
As septic inspections are limited to the visual observations made on the day of the inspection and are no guarantee that there will be no future issues, problems may arise in a septic system even after it receives a favorable inspection.
Usually this is due to an increased load that is placed on the system by the new homeowner. Sometimes properties have been vacant for some time, and thus when inspected, the septic system was not operating under its normal load. Alternatively, the system could just be old.
Unfortunately, there is no absolute way to predict how long a septic system will last or if it will be able to handle an increased load.
Groundwater Wells
Certifying that the water well pump functions properly prior to purchasing property with an existing well is a must for prospective homebuyers. It is important to inspect the mechanical workings of the pump, as well as test the water quality. The professionals at Joe’s Sanitation are available to conduct visual well inspections and water testing.
Our well inspections include checking the condition of the tank, measuring the water pressure, ensuring the bladder or diaphragm is working properly and inspecting the electrical wiring.
We can also test the well water for bacteria, lead, Nitrites, and Nitrates to assure you that the water in your well is safe to drink.
Locating Your Septic System
Homeowners often forget about their septic tanks until there is an emergency and the tank needs to be pumped. If risers have not been installed, this entails digging up the yard. In such situations, there is nothing worse for our professionals than discover that the location of the septic tank is under that beautiful gazebo and concrete patio or that an RV is parked directly on top of the drain field. Receiving a vague description from the previous homeowner, having a general idea, or making an assumption about the location of your tank are mistakes that could prove costly later.
Give us a call before you begin any backyard home improvement projects, and we will be happy to find the exact location of your tank. Our professionals use non-invasive equipment to locate your tank and will provide you with the GPS coordinates, so you can be sure that you avoid constructing anything on top of your septic system.
