4 Reasons to Get a Septic Inspection Before Buying a Home

When a house is put up for sale, it’s a common practice to put its best features front and center. Savvy buyers know to get an inspection, but even the best inspectors lack the qualifications to give you the full picture of what’s happening underground. Hiring a professional septic company is the only way to potentially save you thousands of dollars in repairs down the road.

Why Homebuyers Need a Proper Septic Inspection

Just because the plumbing in the home appears to be working doesn’t mean problems don’t exist. Here are four key reasons to hire septic professionals before purchasing a home:

1. Size Matters

It’s possible an older home fell under a different set of regulations when it came to the size of the septic tank. The capacity of the tank directly affects how the system will perform. If you are an average or larger than average family, a small tank can quickly become overwhelmed and back up into the home.

2. Septic Tanks and Fields Do Not Last Forever

Older tanks, especially ones that were not well maintained, may have defects that compromise the integrity of the tank. Soil over the drain field can compact over time, reducing the tank’s ability to separate water from waste. Replacing the system can be costly and messy as your yard is dug up.

3. Maintenance Record Review

Asking the current owners for the maintenance records of the tank is important, but a septic inspector can review the records and ensure it was full and proper maintenance, and not just pumping. They can also determine if the pumping frequency was adequate or infrequent enough to lead to problems.

4. Find and Mark the Drain Field

If you have plans to add extra buildings, plant a garden or make other changes to your outdoor space, it’s crucial to know the location of the septic drain field. You do not want to place anything over the tank or field that compromises the integrity of the system. This includes compacting the soil with parking or planting trees too close to the area.

Contingency Plans for Damaged Septic Systems

Finding problems with a septic system can make or break the sale of a home. If the system needs repair, you may have room to negotiate the price. If the system or options for placement won’t work for your family, you may need to keep looking for your perfect home.

If you are looking at purchasing a home with a septic system in the Fort Lauderdale, Miami or nearby areas, contact Eco Pump Services today for a full septic inspection.