Around 26% of Pennsylvania homes have septic tank sewage systems, with the majority of septic tanks found in rural areas and older homes.
There is no shortage of older or rural homes in Northeast Pennsylvania, whether you are purchasing a home as far away as Berwick, Danville, Scranton, or anywhere in between.
On average, septic tanks last 20-40 years, depending on maintenance and other environmental factors. If you’re purchasing a home in Northeast Pennsylvania, it’s essential to conduct a septic tank inspection to protect you from future repairs and potential health issues.
This guide will discuss the importance of septic tank inspections and what to look for in a septic tank inspector.
How Do Septic Tanks Work?
Septic systems are responsible for separating effluent (liquid waste) from wastewater and discharging solid matter into a drain field, where it is reabsorbed into the soil.
Each septic tank is made of a large concrete or polyethylene basin that holds the wastewater and pumps that divert and discharge effluent to its intended location.
Unfortunately, these basins can crack or fracture over time due to environmental conditions and soil compaction. Pumps can also become clogged or dirty as they wear out due to natural use.
Homeowners who don’t clean their pumps and filters or get routine inspections of their septic systems could leave them liable to damage that could become costly or result in backflows that cause sewage to seep out of the system.
What Is a Septic Inspection?
A septic inspection evaluates the condition of your septic tank sewage system. An inspector will examine key elements of the tank, including the basin, drain field, and piping, to ensure they are free from blockages, leaks, or other potential problems.
There are typically two levels of septic inspections you should be aware of:
- Visual Inspections: These are often part of routine maintenance checks or a general home inspection. They involve a simple examination of the tank’s surface conditions to look for signs of leakage and ask questions about the system’s performance.
- Full Inspections: A comprehensive septic inspection is a separate inspection that involves opening the tank, checking sludge levels, examining the drain field, and possibly using cameras to inspect pipes and other internal mechanisms.
A full septic inspection is always recommended when purchasing a home with a septic tank system, as a visual inspection does not provide the proper details to evaluate the system’s condition.
Why Do You Need a Septic Inspection?
A septic inspection should never be avoided, as repairs can be costly, and the potential hazards could be life-threatening.
- Prevention of Costly Repairs
According to Forbes, the average cost of a septic tank repair is around $1,775. However, more extensive repairs could end up costing thousands of dollars more.
A septic inspection allows you to avoid repairs by negotiating for the seller to pay for the repairs or subtracting them from the total cost of the home.
- Visual Inspections Don’t Go Far Enough
Visual inspections and general home inspections cannot possibly give you an accurate assessment of the condition of a septic tank, as most of its components are internal and burning underground. From inspecting internal pumps to drain fields, a septic inspection provides a full 360-degree view of your septic system.
- Health and Safety Concerns
A malfunctioning septic system can pose serious health risks, including backflows that mix sewage water with groundwater. If your home relies on well water, this can severely impact the quality of your family’s drinking water and put your health at risk. A septic inspection can prevent such issues, ensuring that your system is treating wastewater safely and effectively.
- Extending the Life of Your Septic System
Regular septic inspections help extend the life of your system by catching problems early. Well-maintained septic systems can last for decades, but neglecting inspections can shorten their lifespan significantly and leave you on the hook for costly repairs. By having your system inspected and pumped on a recommended schedule (usually every 5-10 years), you can ensure it continues to operate efficiently for years to come.
How to Choose a Septic Tank Inspector
Choosing the right septic inspector is crucial for maintaining your septic system and avoiding costly repairs. Here are some tips for searching for a septic inspector in Northeast PA.
- PSMA Certification: The Pennsylvania Septage Management Association (PSMA) is a professional qualification for septic system inspectors, ensuring that they are trained in the best practices for evaluating septic systems. PSMA-certified inspectors must complete rigorous training and pass exams that test their knowledge of how septic systems operate and how to identify potential problems. Certified inspectors follow the highest standards in the industry, which can give you confidence in the quality and accuracy of their inspection.
- Experience: Proper experience can inform inspectors of issues that most people would not be able to identify or see.
- Knowledge: Search for an inspector who not only provides you with a helpful overview, but also actionable information.
Mountain to Valley Home Inspections is a PSMA-certified inspector with decades of experience servicing septic systems and all home inspection needs. Contact us today for your free quote on a septic tank inspection in NEPA.
FAQs
How often should I have a septic inspection?
Septic systems should be inspected every three to five years, depending on usage and the size of the system. Inspections may be needed more frequently for larger households or older systems.
What does a full septic inspection involve?
A full inspection involves accessing the septic tank, measuring sludge and scum levels, inspecting the system components, and checking the drain field for signs of issues.
What is a PSMA certification?
PSMA certification indicates that a septic inspector has undergone specialized training and adheres to industry standards, ensuring a thorough and accurate inspection.