Regular septic system inspections are essential to maintaining a safe, efficient, and long-lasting wastewater treatment system for your home. Whether you’re keeping up with routine maintenance or preparing to buy or sell a property, understanding the septic inspection process can help you prevent costly repairs and ensure everything flows smoothly.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the septic system inspection process, when it’s needed, what it involves, and why it matters.
Why Septic System Inspections Are Essential
Over time, your septic system experiences natural wear and tear. Inspections help detect issues early, preventing expensive emergencies and prolonging the life of your tank and drain field.
Benefits of Regular Inspections:
Identify clogs, leaks, or failing components.
Ensure compliance with local regulations.
Avoid backups and system failures.
Protect property value, especially during a sale.
Most experts recommend scheduling a septic inspection every 1 to 3 years, depending on your system’s age, household usage, and local health department requirements.
When Should You Get a Septic Inspection?
There are several key times when a septic system inspection is necessary:
Before buying or selling a Home, Many real estate transactions require a certified septic inspection.
Routine Maintenance: Even if no issues are present, regular checkups help keep your system in top shape.
After Flooding or Heavy Rain: Excess water can damage your tank and drain field.
Noticing Warning Signs: Slow drains, bad odors, or soggy ground may signal it’s time for an inspection.
Types of Septic System Inspections
There are two primary types of inspections: visual and full inspections.
1. Visual Inspection
Often conducted during a home sale.
Involves flushing toilets, running water, and checking for visible signs of problems.
Limited in scope but still useful.
2. Full Inspection
More comprehensive and recommended for routine maintenance.
Involves opening the tank, measuring scum and sludge levels, checking baffles, inspecting the drain field, and assessing the overall health of the system.
For peace of mind and thorough care, a full inspection is always the better choice—especially when done by a trusted provider like Kaylor’s Septic Servicing.
Step-by-Step Septic Inspection Process
Step 1: Locate and Access the Septic Tank
The inspector locates the tank and uncovers the access lid.
May use property maps or a soil probe to find it if the location is unknown.
Step 2: Check Sludge and Scum Levels
Special tools measure the amount of solid waste inside the tank.
If levels are too high, pumping may be required.
Step 3: Inspect Tank Condition
Checks for cracks, leaks, corrosion, or damage to the tank walls and lid.
Verifies that inlet and outlet baffles are functioning correctly.
Step 4: Evaluate Drain Field Performance
Looks for signs of flooding, foul odors, or lush green spots that could indicate failure.
May include a dye test or soil percolation test.
Step 5: Report and Recommendations
A detailed report is provided, including findings, potential issues, and service recommendations.
If repairs or pumping are needed, the inspector will advise on next steps.
What Homeowners Can Do Between Inspections
Avoid flushing non-biodegradable items or chemicals.
Use water efficiently to reduce strain on your system.
Keep heavy vehicles off the drain field area.
Schedule regular pumping every 3–5 years.
Trust the Experts at Kaylor’s Septic Servicing
At Kaylor’s Septic Servicing, we specialize in comprehensive septic system inspections that help protect your home and wallet. Our licensed technicians use the latest tools and techniques to give you an accurate assessment and keep your system running like new.
Schedule Your Septic Inspection Today!
Whether you need a routine checkup or a real estate inspection, we’re here to help. Fill out the form below to book your professional septic system inspection with Kaylor’s Septic Servicing.
