1. Inspection level 1: This is a visual inspection. We run water from various drains and flushing toilets in the home. We want to find out how well everything is draining. We also look for septic leakage to the top of the drain field area and check for sewage odors in the area of the septic tank and the leach field.

2. Inspection level 2: We pump the tank. This allows our septic tank inspectors to check the water level to know whether water is properly draining. To make sure the water is properly flowing, we run water in the home. This is done to determine if the water level rises when more water is introduced. Next, we will check out if there is any sewage backup from the absorption area.

3. Inspection level 3: This is the best option if you want to buy a home. Level three includes the visual inspection and the pumping as well. With level three, we install inlet and outlet baffles. In many states this is now mandated by the Department of Environmental Health. The inlet baffle allows water to flow into your septic system without disturbing the scum layer. This baffle also keeps the wastewater from flowing straight across your septic tank. The outlet baffle serves as a filter to prevent solids from traveling to the drainage field.