What should you expect when you are getting a septic tank and septic field inspection?
Because we pride our selves in giving 100% to our clients, but we also believe in following the rules we will no longer be doing inspections unless asked by the county.
There is a new ruling that has come down from the state that septage pumpers can not perform inspections unless asked by the county. And we abide by the state codes and regulations. we will leave this information up for you so you know what to look for and what to expect.
1) Does the company want me to call MISS DIG? If not? Why Not?
a)You should call to make sure all the utilities are marked so no one is injured while digging during inspection.
2) Did they send a pre-questioner for me to fill out?
a) this gives more information tothe personabout what to expect and helps with record keeping for us and you in the long run.
3) Are they or will they do the research with the Health Department for the background of the property if there is any.
a) This is done to help aid in locating the septic tank and field, also to give the measurements and tank size if available, along with what type of soil was used.
Now that you have decided to have an inspection and they are at the house, what should you be seeing???
1) We always recommend that you have the tank pumped ( you will see why in the following pictures.)
2) Your inspector should locate your tank and then uncover your lid or lids, then measure the depth of soil from ground level to lid.
3) Removal of lid to see level of scum and thickness of scum
a) Ask to have Pictures for your records.
4) Tank is then pumped.
5) We then look inside tank to see if there are any cracks, are baffles intact?
They should then go inside and have the toilets flushed to observe water flow.
6) Next is the field test. Holes are bored in drain field and your inspector should reach down and feel the soil to test the soil. This is done in a minimum of 3 locations. Next a small hole is drilled into 1-2 of the drain tiles and a wire inserted to check for scum if tile can be located. Pictures of all holes will be taken.
7) If there is a basement then they should go inside the basement and check the fixtures inside and see if the connections look tight. Also looking for a water softener, and where it discharges
8) Ask to have all holes covered and look almost like they were never there and a report will then be sent to client complete with Pictures and copy of report from Health Department if there is one on file.
Note: Pictures are from several different inspections for visual effect.
Lid Removed From Septic tank
Getting ready to measure scum level
Cleaning out the tank to inspect for cracks and to inspect the baffle.