If you’re looking to buy a home with a septic tank system, you must order a full inspection of the system before signing the paperwork. This should be done by a septic professional, not a general home inspector, as problems within the septic system can be hard to find. Often, home inspectors will do a visual inspection to ensure the water is running and the toilet is flushing. This can be enough to satisfy your mortgage company, but you may find yourself facing significant septic tank repairs later. A full inspection looks at the entire system, so you know what you’re getting into.

4 Steps of a Septic Tank Inspection

1. The Tank Is Pumped

There are only two circumstances under which the septic tank should not be fully pumped. The first is if another part of the system already fails to pass the inspection. If the tank has already recently been pumped, and there are no solids in it yet, it also shouldn’t be pumped.

2. Holes Are Dug to Check Absorption

The inspector should dig four holes — two at the end of the tank and two in the absorption field. If any of the holes fill up with standing water, septic tank repairs are necessary. They should also inspect the stones in the absorption field for any discoloration that indicates a failing system.

3. Water Levels Are Checked

The tank should be opened to ensure liquid levels are normal and the tank isn’t overfull or leaking. Then, water is introduced to the system; this will check that the system is processing correctly from the house as well as to the tank and absorption field.

4. Flow Is Checked

This last check looks at the tank to ensure there are no blockages or loose connections between the house pipes and drains to the tank. Your inspector can then give you a full report on the health of the system and whether you can expect septic tank repairs in the near future.

Dependable Plumbing provides quality septic tank installation, repair, and plumbing services for most of North Georgia, including Ellijay, Jasper, Canton, Ball Ground, Blue Ridge, Blairsville, Hiawassee, Dahlonegha, Dawsonville, and Gainesville. Their knowledgeable plumbers are fast and reliable. To schedule your free estimate, call (706) 698-5000 or visit them online.