What Does a Septic Inspection Entail? Your Guide to Smart Property Buying
Are you in the process of purchasing a new property? If so, choosing to contract for a septic inspection could be one of the most critical decisions you make. Not all inspections are created equal, and understanding what a septic inspection entails is vital. This guide will walk you through the key components of a septic inspection, ensuring you’re well-prepared when it comes to your property investment.
- Water System Verification: A thorough septic inspection begins with verifying that all water systems in the house, including sinks, dishwashers, clothes washers, and tubs, are draining to the septic system. This ensures a seamless flow and functionality.
- Septic Element Checks: The inspection includes a close examination to verify if any septic system elements are leaking. Even minor issues like a dripping faucet or a running toilet can cause undue stress on the septic system. It’s essential to take these issues seriously and have them fixed promptly.
- Bellies Inspection: Using a camera, inspectors check for bellies (dips) in the front line, which is the pipe between the house and the septic tank. Identifying these dips is crucial to maintaining a healthy septic system.
- Septic Tank Assessment: The septic tank is thoroughly checked for water tightness, ensuring it’s in good working condition.
- Inlet Baffle Examination: The presence and function of the inlet baffle are confirmed. Inlet baffles direct solids to the bottom of the septic tank, a critical component in the septic system.
- Outlet Baffle Inspection: Similarly, the presence and function of the outlet baffle are checked. Outlet baffles prevent solids from escaping the septic tank and entering the absorption system, which includes drain fields, drywells, sand mounds, drip systems, and more.
- Concrete Tank Evaluation: A mirror is used to inspect the concrete septic tank for signs of spalling or exposed rebar. Maintaining the integrity of the tank is essential for long-term performance.
- Backline Examination: A camera is again used to check the backline, which is the pipe between the house and the absorption system. Ensuring this component’s functionality is crucial for a healthy septic system.
- Distribution Box Check: If applicable, the distribution box is checked, and excavation may be necessary for a thorough examination.
- Absorption System Evaluation: The inspection concludes with an assessment of the absorption system. For drain fields, observation ports are checked, and for drywells, the depth and liquid level of the drywell(s) are assessed.
It’s important to note that states like Maryland have their own required OSDS (On-Site Sewage Disposal System) report. However, the steps outlined above provide a smart and comprehensive approach to your septic inspection.
In Carroll County, Baltimore County, Howard County, Harford County and Frederick County, MD, Legacy Septic & Excavation is your trusted partner for septic inspections and related services. When it comes to making informed decisions about your property investment, don’t cut corners on your septic inspection. Choose Legacy Septic for thorough, reliable assessments. Your property’s future depends on it.
Make the right choice, contact Legacy Septic today, and ensure your property investment is in safe hands.