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Septic System Survey
The old saying that "the grass is greener over the septic tank" is true only if it has a serious problem. The septic tank is generally a waterproof concrete box with watertight piping entering and leaving the tank. If there has been any seepage, more lush growth will be present over the tank, most likely due to a backup or overflow in the system. There are many effects that can add strain on a septic system:
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Changes in lifestyle and household activities, i.e., adding a garbage disposal, or children engaging in a new sport and taking more showers |
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Addition of bathrooms or kitchens to an existing system |
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Change of ownership from a retired couple to a 6- or 8-member family, i.e., younger families typically mean more washing machine loads each week |
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The average life expectancy of a septic system is roughly 25 years, but whether a system will continue to be trouble-free for that long depends on how well the system was designed and how well it has been maintained. |
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Contrary to popular belief, it is not good news to hear, "I've never had to pump the septic tank." Pumping is NOT something you do AFTER the tank begins to show signs of failure. Pumping must be done routinely at least every two years for the life of the system. Failure to do so allows the scum on top of the tank and sludge in the bottom to build up year by year, thus reducing the capacity by more and more each year. |
A tank that isn't pumped until the capacity is reduced to the point where untreated solids stop the working of the system and fill the leaching field is already in failure. Unless there is room to expand to a new leaching field and a program of regular maintenance is established, an entirely new system may be required.
What can we do for you?
If you are contemplating the purchase of a home with a septic system, Prime Property Inspectors can provide a septic survey that will determine whether the system is functioning properly. These tests may include dye and flood tests and a visual survey of the ground surface to determine if the leaching field is still satisfactorily absorbing water.
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