Certified Home Inspection Services for Michigan
Call (517) 816-8500 or (269) 367-3100
Monday - Friday 8am to 5pm
to schedule your inspection
Septic System Inspection
The cost to replace a septic system averages $3,000 to $7,000. A properly functioning septic system is vital to many homes located outside city limits. However, the septic system is often the last thing on the mind of a homeowner until there is a problem. When a home is being purchased, the big question is, ‘will I have trouble with the septic system after I move in?’
Our certified septic inspectors have a vast knowledge of the different types of septic systems and how they work. We will locate the tank and show you where the access is. Our inspectors are equipped with locating devices for those hard to find. Once it is located we unearth the lid and open it. Most other home inspectors do not open or even locate the tank. They just run water in the house. If it doesn’t back up they say it’s good. We understand through many years of performing septic inspections, you have to open the tank to know whether or not you have a functioning system. After the tank is opened, the effluent levels are monitored before and after running water into the system. The condition
of inlet and outlet baffles are inspected. The solid levels in the tank are checked to let you know when it should be pumped. Third-party arrangements with an outside pumping company can also be made upon request for the tank to be pumped at the time of the inspection. We conduct a functional water flow test into the drain field, to determine if there is any blockage or saturation. The drain field is augured and the wash stones examined if conditions call for it. If there is an effluent tank with a lift pump – we inspect it and test the pump. If there is an alarm system in the effluent tank we test it. If an alarm is not present we recommend one be installed.
Our goal is to conduct a thorough examination and functional water flow test to assure our clients that they have a working septic system. If it is not functioning or if repairs are needed we will report it. Unfortunately, there is no absolute way to predict how long it will last or if it will be able to handle an increased load with a larger family. Our inspection will yield useful information on the condition of the system at the time of the inspection, and often uncovers defects which can save the purchaser a large unexpected expense.
There are many different types of septic systems ranging from conventional in-ground gravity systems to engineered mound systems; from aerobic treatment systems to peat moss bio-filter systems. Our inspectors have seen them all and can educate you on how your system works and how to maintain it. The average life expectancy of a septic system is approximately 20 to 30 years. We recommend that you contact a local septic company for further maintenance tips and to be placed on a pumping schedule every few years. Proper usage and maintenance may extend the life of your system.