You might feel concerned if you are purchasing a home with a septic system for the very first time. Don’t worry! A quarter of households in the United States rely on septic systems. They are very commonly used and you will find a septic system is easy to maintain. A septic system can actually last a lifetime if it is maintained properly and pumped regularly.
The Home’s Septic System: Before You Buy
It is really important that if you are considering buying a home that has a septic tank, that you understand exactly how a septic system works. You will want to know what kind of system the home has and specifically how it works. It is best if the last homeowner can give you information such as documents about the system and information about past service and providers.
However, this information is not always available or accessible for one reason or another. If this is the case, some state or local governments keep information on file about homes in the area that may be able to help you. You can also find information about specific types of systems both online and in books.
Advanced Care for Your Septic Tank
Environmental pollution and damage is becoming more of a concern for cities and localities across the United States. Many local and state governments are now requiring advanced treatment technology systems.
Advanced treatment technology systems (also called ATTs) have an additional filter that is fitted after the septic tanks. These filters vary and are often either sand filters or even additional tanks with their own aeration. Some states and localities even have laws that require you maintain a contract with a septic tank company to do scheduled maintenance at least once per year.
It is important to check manufacturer’s guidelines when it comes to properly maintaining ATT systems because they can be very expensive to repair or replace.
Assess the Septic System’s Current Condition
You will need full knowledge of the current septic system’s condition. This will require an inspection. A full inspection by a licensed professional will help you determine if repairs are needed and how the septic system may affect the home’s value. While some states will require an inspection at the time of sale, many do not.
Have a Septic Inspection Performed
Even if it is not required, you should have an inspection done yourself before purchasing a home. Call a septic tank company near you to do the inspection. You do not want to purchase and then find out that you will need to have the entire septic system replaced, which in some cases could cost you thousands of dollars. The system will need to be pumped so an inspection can be performed and the condition of the tank can be assessed. They will also need to uncover the distribution box. This will allow them to make sure that there are no clogs, holes or root infiltration. Make sure you keep copies of the results of any inspections for your own records.
Understand Septic Maintenance
If you are purchasing a home with a septic system, you will need to know how to take care of it. You will need to have the system pumped every three to five years to keep it working correctly. You will want to try to reduce your water usage, as this will help to not fill your system as quickly. It is also good to never put anything into your septic system that should not be there, such as trash, grease or chemicals. Ask your local septic tank company for advice about your specific system.
Searching for Septic Tank Companies Near Me?
Whether you are a new home owner or have owned your home for decades, if you are having septic issues and are searching for “septic tank companies near me,” call Mullin Septic at (918) 922-7867 right away!