If you’re considering buying a house with a septic tank, here are some answers to frequently asked questions:
How long does a septic system last?
A septic system can last for decades if it has received proper septic tank maintenance.
What can I put in my septic tank?
Only things that are septic-friendly. Never throw down the drain things like: paint, gasoline, cat litter, coffee grounds, cigarettes, dental floss, diapers, earplugs, napkins, tampons, plastics, oil, chemicals…etc.
What are the costs of septic tank repairs?
Before buying a house with a septic tank, you should know the costs of septic tank repairs that await you in the event of a faulty septic system.
Small problems like leaking faucets, a clogged pipe, or sinks not draining will not have a significant cost. Whereas replacing something will be more expensive. It can cost thousands of dollars to fix the leach field.
What should I do before buying a house with a septic tank?
Before buying a house with a septic tank, there are certain things that you need to know in order to have and maintain a healthy septic system.
For, example, you need to know the septic tank laws and regulations in your own state or county. Ask about the septic system, how old it is, how many bedrooms it serves, the septic tank size, the maintenance records and when it was inspected for the last time.
Should I buy a house with a septic tank?
It is common that people ask the question ‘should I buy a house with a septic tank?’ or look for another house that is serviced by municipal disposal system.
Septic systems are common in rural areas that are not serviced by public sewer lines. They are as effective as municipal sewers and are also eco-friendly. Buying a house with a septic tank will save you money by not having to pay the recurring monthly municipal taxes.
When should a septic system be inspected?
Once a year, especially when it is put up on the market for sale. A healthy septic system raises the value of the property and avoids any liability issues from a bad-performing system.
Is a septic inspection really necessary?
A septic system is an important fixture to consider when buying a house with a septic tank. Although a real estate septic system inspection is not a legal requirement, it is highly recommended that you arrange for regular checks. An inspection benefits you for the following reasons:
If you are a buyer, you want to:
- Know the condition of the new home septic system
- Know the location of the septic tank and drain field
- Ensure the next home is in excellent condition
If you are a homeowner, you want to:
- Ensure the septic system is fully functional and suitable for expansion plans
- Avoid any potential issues of liability in the future from a malfunctioning septic system in case you sell your house
- Prevent unpleasant odors, flushing problems, or system malfunctions
When to pump a septic tank?
According to the EPA, average household septic systems should be inspected at least once every three years by a professional septic inspector.
How much does it cost to pump a septic tank?
The cost of septic tank pumping ranges from USD350-650 depending on the size of your septic tank and the location of the landfill. A landfill just outside town costs less than driving to one that is 50 miles away.
Who pays for a septic tank inspection?
If you are buying a house with a septic tank, you are probably wondering who pays for the septic inspection? Buyer or seller? It is typically the responsibility of the seller to pay for the septic inspection. Or they both sit down and discuss who takes charge of it and it could be both or just one of them.
Does the home have a private well?
When buying a house with a septic tank, it is very likely that the house has a private well. The water well has to be at least 50 feet away from the septic system to avoid contamination.
Before buying a house with a septic tank, hire a professional or get in touch with the local health department in your county to test the well to ensure it has not been contaminated by the septic system.
You can also find further information on how your septic system can impact nearby water sources at EPA.
At Septic Works LLC, our septic inspectors will take care of all your needs. Our septic tank services include septic tank cleaning, septic tank inspection when buying a house with a septic tank, septic pumping, septic tank repair, septic tank installation, engineered septic system, alternative septic systems, and porta potty rentals.
Call us now at 912-666-2210 to book your appointment.