Guidebook to Pass Septic Tank Inspection

If you’re buying or selling a home, it’s important to perform a septic tank inspection. In this article, we’ll look at what you need to know about septic tank inspection and how to pass the inspection.

Why Septic Tank Inspection Is Important?

Whether you’re looking to buy a home or maintaining your home’s utility systems, it’s necessary to conduct a septic tank inspection to ensure the system is operating as it should. An inspection also helps you to detect underlying problems that can translate into expensive problems down the line. For someone who’s buying a home, carrying out a septic tank inspection helps you to know what to expect for your new home, and gives you more confidence in your purchase.

When Is a Septic Tank Considered Compliant?

A septic tank is considered compliant if it meets all the local and state requirements. A septic tank is compliant if it’s watertight, draining into a drainfield or connected to the main sewer, and has a vertical separation between the bottom of the drainfield and bedrock. On the other hand, a septic tank is considered non-compliant if:

• The tank discharges directly into a watercourse
• The drainfield is saturated
• The septic tank is leaking
• There’s no vertical separation between the bottom of the absorption area and the bedrock.

What Gets Inspected During a Septic Tank Inspection?

The three main areas of a septic tank that needs to be inspected include sludge, scum, and flow. Sludge is the solid waste that settles towards the bottom of the tank. If this dense layer is not removed from the tank, it can pile up to excessive levels. During septic tank inspection, the inspector will measure the level of sludge in the tank. Scum is the oils or grease that enter the septic tank. The scum should flow out of the tank to avoid interfering with good bacteria.

If you’re selling a home, here’s what you can do to pass a septic tank inspection:

Pump Your Septic Tank Every 2-3 Years

Septic tank pumping is necessary to maintain a healthy septic system. This process involves removing sludge, effluent, and scum in a septic tank before the waste builds up to a level where it interferes with the proper functioning of the septic tank. You should call a septic company to pump your septic tank every 2-3 years, depending on the size of your tank and usage. Failure to pump your septic tank as necessary can lead to drainfield damage, and your tank's holding capacity will be reduced.

Do Not Use Bleach and Other Harsh Chemicals

When bleach and harsh chemicals find their way into your septic tank, they may kill the good bacteria found in your septic tank, thereby interfering with the breaking down of waste matter. In addition, bleach and harsh chemicals can weaken the structural components of your septic tank. In order for your septic tank to pass inspection, ensure you use eco-friendly cleaners in your home.

How to Prepare for a Septic Tank Inspection

First, find a reliable septic company that offers septic inspection services and book an appointment with the company. Secondly, prepare the records showing your tank’s inspection and maintenance history.

Call Septic Connection for Septic Inspection

If you need a septic tank inspection for a real estate transaction or just for routine maintenance, call Septic Connection.