What’s a Septic Inspection?

A septic inspection as quoted from the PSMA Standards of the National Onsite Foundation* is:

• An objective evaluation of the onsite wastewater treatment system’s characteristics based on the conclusions of a qualified inspector.
• An evaluation of each component examined leading to a conclusion about the component and the overall system’s condition as either ‘satisfactory,’ ‘satisfactory with concerns,’ ‘unsatisfactory’ or ‘more investigation needed’.

Simply put a septic inspection is an observation that tells both the buyer and seller if the septic system can function as designed for the household.  The inspector will also make repair recommendations.  In most cases repairs are minor, in more extreme cases complete system replacement is needed.

It is recommended that you use a PSMA certified inspector, however Pennsylvania does not require it.  PSMA certified inspectors use a rigorous set of standards that are in use across the Northeast.  It is also important to remember that a septic inspection is not a guarantee; when hiring an inspector, be sure to ask about his or her experience and qualifications.  Also, make sure that the septic inspector is familiar with your type of septic system.

If you have already had a septic inspection performed the reports are usually very detailed – details are good but can be confusing and at times a little overwhelming.  A PSMA certified septic inspection report is not a pass/fail grading.  It is a report of observations made the day of the inspection.    An inspector will use the following criteria to judge a systems function:

• More investigation is necessary to reach a conclusion; condition cannot be determined
• Satisfactory with concerns associated with a system
• Unsatisfactory
• Satisfactory

The picture below is an example of  a septic system found in unsatisfactory condition.  It is found unsatisfactory because of the deteriorating septic tank.

Before selling a home it is almost always recommended that a septic inspection be performed.  If replacement is required it should be done prior to marketing the home.  Buyers have been known to walk away from a deal because installing a septic system can be a major project; not to mention that a seller could be stuck with a large bill.  If the septic system is installed prior to marketing the installation price can be absorbed into the home sale cost.

A septic service is performed to maintain a system.  Much like changing the oil in your car pumping your septic tanks, conserving water and cleaning your septic filters ensures you will get full life expectancy from a properly installed septic system.  Typically the only service a standard septic system needs is a pump out of the tanks every two years.  Two years is an average, some properties with high usage require annual pump outs while others can go as long as every 3 years.

Some systems are also equipped with an effluent filter (effluent is pretreated liquid waste.)  Effluent filters should be cleaned when the tanks are pumped.  Some systems require further service, for example a stream discharge septic system may have a UV light that requires annual replacement.  There are also township regulations to consider.  Some townships may require septic pump outs at regular intervals and others may require maintenance in addition to pump outs.  Whatever township requirements are in place be sure to consult your septic installer or septic maintenance provider about what services are best for you.

Remember the keys to making your septic last; proper installation, maintenance and water conservation!

*PSMA Standards of the NOF (For the Inspection of Onsite Wastewater Systems 2013). www.psma.net