Point of Sale Inspections 101

Everything you need to know before buying a home with a septic system.

Whether you're buying or selling a home with a septic system, a thorough point of sale inspection is a must. If the system is bad, you could be looking at an expensive project when you first move in, so knowing the condition of your home's largest utility is a must. Keep reading to learn how a professional septic inspection can help you make a more informed decision about your next real estate transaction, or contact us today to speak to one of our knowledgeable technicians.

What's Included in a Septic Inspection?

First, we'll conduct an evaluation of your septic tank, including the condition of the bottom walls, roof and baffles. This will help us determine the size and type of absorption area your system has and we will inspect for any presence of liquid in your absorption area. If there is a dosing or lift tank we will inspect the condition of the floor, walls and roof of the tank as well. We will also make sure your pump and floats are working property. Inspecting the pump includes checking all wiring and ensuring your pump alarm is in working order. 

During the inspection of your tanks we'll evaluate the liquid levels and check the flow from your home to your treatment tanks, along with the flow to the pump tank if applicable, followed by the flow to the absorption area. We'll verify proper plumbing hookups too, and ensure that the appropriate plumbing fixtures are connected to your system. 

Lastly, we'll measure the distance from your tanks to your well, and your well to your absorption area. We do this to ensure there is no possible contamination of your drinking water. In most cases we'll perform a routine septic tank pumping at the time of your inspection as well. 

What is a Dye Test?

We require that a dye test be performed for septic certifications when a home has been vacant for a period of time. Dye tests are used to show if there is a broken line or show if there are any obvious leaks or issues with the system or drain field.

When performing a septic dye test, we will come out to the property, put the dye in a drain and run a substantial amount of water to ensure that the florescent dye is in the system and works its way out to the drainfield. If the dye makes its way to the surface, then there may be an issue, possibly a broken, disconnected, or crushed septic line. Should an issue arise, we may be able to pinpoint with a video inspection what exactly is going on.

If you're getting ready to buy or sell, give us a call today for any of your septic system needs. We provide the best in septic tank pumping, inspections and clean outs in the Twin Tiers region.

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