Who Does the Septic Tank Inspection?

Many home inspection companies will claim to do septic inspections, and technically, so does Florida’s Favorite Home Inspections. It’s highly likely, that when your inspector says they do septic inspections, what they really mean is that they do a limited visual inspection of the septic system, specifically, checking the clean-outs (if accessible) for back-ups, as well as flushing all toilets, and going out to the drain field to make sure there is no standing water, lush vegetation, or odors, which can indicate a leak.

If you’re not familiar with septic tank maintenance or perhaps you’re considering purchasing a home with a septic tank, you’ll find that the tank needs to be pumped / cleaned out every couple of years, depending on how much waste is being generated. Larger families may need to have the tank pumped every year, while someone living alone may be able to go several years. In general though, most people wait for a problem to get an inspection. Depending on the maintenance of the system, septic tanks can last up to 25 years or longer.

Why is this information relevant? You’ll notice when the time comes to have your septic tank emptied that a giant truck will arrive with a large hose to pump the tank. Most home inspectors do not own this equipment required to accurately check for cracks, leaks, and other defects in the tank. Just the process of having the tank emptied and cleaned can take 30-60 minutes or more and cost a couple to a few hundred dollars, depending on the size of the tank and how difficult it is for the contractor to locate and access the septic tank lids. Additionally, some septic tanks have a filter, which should technically be cleaned annually, but should certainly be cleaned at the time the septic tank is emptied, as they can also be the source of a clog. If you factor in the actual inspection time and cost after the tank is emptied, you may be looking at roughly $300-$600 or more. You can see why it’s not feasible for a home inspector to simply provide this as an additional service.

So, should I get a full inspection of the septic tank? It is highly recommended that you request an inspection of the system, however, we advise waiting until after your full home inspection. The reason for this, is that your inspector could find other problems with the home, that could cause you to walk away from the purchase. This may help you to avoid paying for a full septic inspection unnecessarily.

If you do decide to move forward with the full septic inspection, keep in mind that, according to floridahealth.gov, “By law, only a state-licensed septic tank contractor or plumber or a certified environmental health professional can inspect and assess your septic system.” If you’re wanting a full septic inspection, you can search for approved Florida septic tank contractors here.

Who does the septic inspection then? Florida’s Favorite does a limited visual septic inspection as part of a full home inspection, but mostly you’ll need a state-licensed septic tank contractor if you want a complete inspection of the tank’s interior components. If our home inspector finds any hint of a problem, we will always refer you to a licensed septic tank contractor for “further review and evaluation,” as the catch phrase goes.

For a full home inspection, with a limited visual septic inspection, find out first, with Florida’s Favorite. We proudly serve all of Palm Beach, Martin, St. Lucie, and Broward counties. Click here to request a free quote or call 561-985-5919.

For more information, please find Florida Health’s Home Buyer’s Guide to Septic Systems here.