So, you’ve found your dream home! There’s plenty of space for you and your family, it’s in a safe neighborhood, and the roof was just replaced last year. There’s a lot to consider when buying a home, and it’s easy for things to fall through the cracks during the process. Since a home’s septic system is out of sight and out of mind, it can be easy to forget, but it’s one of the most important parts of a home. In addition to septic system problems being extremely expensive, they can also be a major health risk.
While you shouldn’t be scared away from buying a home with a septic system, it’s important to do your due diligence before signing on the dotted line. Here are some important questions to ask the seller:
- How old is the septic system: the tank, the leach field, and the filter?
- Do you have a copy of the septic system permit?
- What is the service and repair history of the system?
- What is the size of the septic tank?
- Has the home had additional rooms built since the septic system was installed?
- Have there been any recent inspections of the septic tank?
A traditional home inspection typically does not include a thorough evaluation of the septic system, if one at all. It’s important to hire a certified expert to reveal the true condition of the system. Although it may seem like an unnecessary task and expense upfront, a septic inspection could save you thousands of dollars in the long run.
Just imagine the nightmare of moving into your dream home only to receive a bill a few months later for $7,500+ because your septic system failed. A thorough septic inspection will include:
- Inspecting all components of the septic system, including leach field, baffles, filter, septic tanks, and covers.
- A visual inspection of the tank and area to ensure the tank is flowing properly at the time of the inspection and also to look for key signs of trouble, such as standing water or weird odors.
- Digging a small hole in the leach field to view the rocks, sand, and coloration and to make sure it is not holding water.
Having a professional septic inspection conducted before you complete the home-buying process gives you a bargaining tool that you can use to negotiate the purchase price with confidence. If the inspection shows that repairs or replacements are needed, you may have the ability to deduct those expenses from the purchase price of the home.
If you are looking for a reliable company to provide a septic inspection for your new home, our team of certified evaluators can help. Call us today at (603) 945-7355 or submit the form on this page to learn more.