Septic System Frequently Asked Questions
A septic inspection is a professional evaluation of the condition and performance of a property’s onsite wastewater system.
The inspection typically includes opening the septic tank, checking sludge levels, verifying inlet and outlet components, and observing wastewater flow through the system. The drain field area is also evaluated for signs of saturation, odours, or abnormal vegetation.
Our inspections go beyond a simple visual check by assessing system type, condition, and evaluating tank and soil chemistry to better understand the biological processes affecting performance. The goal is to provide homeowners and buyers with a clear understanding of the system’s condition.
Septic systems should be inspected every three to five years as part of routine maintenance.
Inspections are also recommended when purchasing a home, when experiencing slow drains or odours, or when there are signs the drain field may not be functioning properly. Regular inspections help identify small issues before they develop into major failures, just like your vehicle.
Many rural and acreage properties rely on private septic systems, and problems can be expensive to repair or replace.
Many home inspections only include a basic visual check of the septic system. A dedicated septic inspection evaluates the tank, components, and drain field to determine whether the system is functioning properly and helps buyers understand potential risks before purchasing.
Most septic inspections take between one and three hours depending on system accessibility and complexity.
Properties with buried tanks, multiple tanks, or complex systems may require additional time to properly evaluate all components.
Common issues include excessive sludge in the tank, damaged or missing baffles, failing pumps or float switches, and signs that the drain field may be saturated or restricted.
Other issues may include root intrusion, improper plumbing connections, or systems that were not installed according to optimal standards.
Sometimes. If septic tank lids or access ports are buried they may need to be uncovered.
Newer systems often include risers or inspection ports that allow inspections without digging. In some cases limited digging may be required to evaluate soil conditions or system components.
After the inspection, homeowners receive a report describing the system condition and any observations that may require attention.
The report may include recommendations for pumping, maintenance and repairs, monitoring, or further evaluation if potential issues are identified.
Inspection costs vary depending on property location, size, accessibility, and system complexity.
Basic inspections typically range from $400 to $700, while more detailed inspections involving locating components or additional diagnostics may cost more.
Most septic systems fail because the soil in the drain field becomes clogged with a layer called biomat.
Biomat is a natural layer of bacteria, organic waste, and microbial byproducts that forms where wastewater enters the soil. Over time it can thicken and restrict the soil’s ability to absorb water.
About 40 to 60 percent of septic failures are caused by drain field clogging, followed by poor maintenance and failing components, hydraulic overloading, and poor system design.
Biomat is a natural layer of bacteria and organic material that forms where wastewater enters the soil in the drain field.
In a healthy system this layer remains thin and helps treat wastewater as it moves through the soil. Over time it can become thicker and restrict water from soaking into the ground, which may lead to slow drains or wet areas in the yard.
A properly designed and maintained septic system can last 20 to 30 years or longer.
The drain field usually determines the lifespan of the system as soil absorption gradually declines over time due to biomat buildup.
Early warning signs may include slow drains, sewage odours outside, soggy or wet areas above the drain field, or unusually green grass over the system.
In pump systems, long pump cycles may also indicate the soil is not absorbing water efficiently, and gravity drain systems may not be draining the intended level.
In many cases the drain field is not damaged but is restricted by biomat buildup.
Biological restoration methods that introduce controlled aeration and beneficial bacteria can reduce this buildup and improve soil absorption, depending on system age and soil conditions. Not all remediation systems are equal, and we will stand behind us with a guarantee if the inspections indicate that a system can be remediated.
Some cases may require regulatory conformance to the most current standards. In these cases, replacement may be the only allowable option. Contact us to discuss the regulatory requirements of a failing system.
Most septic tanks should be pumped every three to five years depending on household size and water use.
Pumping removes accumulated sludge and solids that would otherwise reach the drain field, but it does not address soil restrictions in the drain field.
If you use our system, pumping requirements are very limited, as all organic content is efficiently digested. Non-organic contents may require pumping, and then bacterial cultures will need to be re-introduced.
Avoid flushing wipes, grease, oils, chemicals, paints, pesticides, and non-biodegradable materials. Some medications such as chemotherapy and even antibiotics can kill a culture in a septic system.
These substances can disrupt septic bacteria or clog the system. Maintaining healthy bacteria in the septic tank is essential for proper operation.
