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SEPTIC SYSTEM INSPECTIONS
If you are buying a home with a septic tank, you should consider having it inspected by a professional septic contractor. Our standard home inspection does not include this type of specialized, intrusive inspection. To properly inspect the system, the contractor will need to dig holes to access the underground parts of the system. This will include inspecting the tank, as well as the leach field.
It makes good sense to have the tank pumped at the time of this inspection. A professional septic contractor can perform both the inspection and pump the tank, assuring you begin with an empty tank and a system that has been inspected. Often, you can negotiate with the seller to have them pay for the pumping.
We perform septic evaluations according to the guidelines set forth by the National Onsite Foundation (NOF) formerly known as PSMA. All reports are computer generated and are available upon completion of the inspection.
What is a NOF Onsite Wastewater Treatment System Inspection?
The inspection leads to an onsite report that providing you with information about the type and condition of the onsite wastewater treatment system as observed at a specific date and time. Also included are suggestions for more investigation or corrective actions regarding system components.
It is our intent to provide you with as much information about the system as possible so that you can draw informed conclusions about the system.
An NOF Onsite Wastewater Treatment System Inspection is:
- an objective evaluation of the onsite wastewater treatments system's characteristics based on the experience and expertise of a qualified inspector.
- an evaluation of each component examined leading to a conclusion about the component and the overall system's condition as either satisfactory, satisfactory with concerns, unsatisfactory, or requires further investigation.
An NOF Onsite Wastewater Treatment System Inspection is NOT:
- a warranty or guarantee that the system will properly function for any period of time in the future.
- associated with, certified, or endorsed by the federal government or any state government or their related regulatory agencies.
- an assurance that the soil is adequately treating or will adequately treat effluent.
How is a NOF Onsite Wastewater Treatment System Inspection performed?
Every NOF inspection begins by collecting some preliminary information such as age of dwelling, age of system, number of occupants, and is the structure CURRENTLY occupied? This information provides the inspector with the system's background and assists in determining if additional testing is necessary.
**If the structure has been unoccupied continuously for more than seven days, or the structure is subject to seasonal use or non-continuous use, than in addition to the inspection, an NOF Hydraulic Load Test must be conducted.**
Once the preliminary information is evaluated the inspection moves to the site visit. Here the inspector walks the property looking for signs of lush vegetation or discharges on or through the ground, streams, etc., or any unexpected pipes. The inspector makes note of the location of the well, if one is located on the property. The treatment tank (s) are located and opened to determine the condition on the interior of the tanks. Holding/Lifting/Pump tanks are evaluated for proper operation. The absorption area is located and probed to determine its condition.
Does Reliable Home Inspection Service perform Dye Testing as a means of inspection?
No. We will not use dye testing to determine the condition of a system. We will only use dye testing to confirm the infiltration of sewage on the grounds or waters of the property. The inspector will determine if dye testing is necessary. For further information about dye testing please refer to the PSMA web site www.psma.net.
Click here for a sample report
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