Onsite wastewater system inspections are becoming more and more common. We have the A/C inspected, we have the electrical inspected, we check for termites. Doesn’t it make sense to have the wastewater system checked out? We think so. (Is that a surprise?)

Air conditioning problems are a comfort issue, electrical problems are a safety issue, and plumbing and septic tank problems are a health issue.

Inspections or Onsite wastewater reports are really becoming the norm for our industry. We have been doing them for over 15 years and are constantly updating our process to assure that we are doing the best possible job.

The performance and longevity of onsite wastewater systems, like many other things, depend on the daily use or abuse. There are many variables that are beyond our control. That is why education is so important. Granted there is only so much that you want to know about your septic tank system but a little knowledge will carry you a long way, and help protect your system and the environment.

If we ask the question, what is an onsite system supposed to do; we get the basis for a good inspection.

An onsite wastewater system is supposed to….

1. Take the water away
2. Treat the water
3. Protect the environment and public health

A proper inspection involves opening the tank for a visual inspection of the inside, and so, the tank can be cleaned (emptied). The major components of a tank are the inlet pipe, filter, outlet tee, baffle, lids, and the tanks walls and floor. The other parts of the system include the line between the house and the tank, as well as the field lines and their components. Each of these items are checked and notes made as to their condition. Water is run from the house to determine if the inlet is open and a good flow can be seen entering and leaving the tank.

One important note on an inspection is whether or not the house is vacant or occupied. This is important in relation to the water level in the tank as well as the actual use the field lines may have been receiving.

When we do an inspection we always want someone present who will have access to the house and can make decisions or represent the person who does. Sometimes there are questions we may need answers to while we are performing the inspection.

Because onsite systems are underground, there are potential problems invisible from the surface. While an inspection is not a guarantee it is the surest way to insure your system or future system is doing its best to protect you and the environment.