Septic Certifications

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So what is a Septic Certification?

A septic certification is a document that states that an inspection has been performed on a specific septic system. The certification should state that the system has been inspected and is working properly and meets code. Typically, septic certifications are required in real estate transactions. It is important that a thourough inspetion is done on the septic system before the escrow transaction is completed to protect all parties in the transaction. The average cost to replace a septic system is $7,500.00 so it can be a very costly thing to replace.

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What is required in a septic certification?

A septic certification entails the following:

  1. Locating the septic tank.
  2. Dig out primary and secondary lid of septic tank
  3. Pump septic tank and perform a visual inspection of the tank
  4. Locate the drainfield: Seepage pit or leach line
  5. Perform water test to check for water absorption
  6. Sketch of system location

 

Once the inspection has been performed, the system will either pass or fail. Systems that pass means they have met all the requirements for septic systems as described per city guidelines. Those systems that fail will not be issued a certification. Septic certificatons are only issued for systems that pass. Systems that fail will be issued a Failed System Report which will outline the reasons for failure and necessary modifications to meet standards.

What are the requirments to pass a Septic Certification?

  1. Septic tank must be in good physical condition:
    • The septic tank must have a primary and secondary compartment
    • Both sides of tank must be inspected
    • Inlet and outlet tee must be present (Click here to go to our glossary).
    • Baffle wall must be intact
    • No major cracks or breaks in body of the tank. The septic tank cannot be leaking
    • Septic tank must have lids
  2. Septic tank must be connected to a drainfield: Either Leach lines or seepage pit/cesspool
    • Seepage Pits/ Cesspools must be less than 60% full
      • Must pass water test. Must be able to handle 30min of running water without following back into the septic tank
      • Line to pit must be free of major debris
      • Have adequate lid
    • Leach lines/ Leach field
      • Must be free of major roots or debris
      • Must pass water test. Must be able to handle 30min of running water without following back into the septic tank
      • Multiple lines must have a distribution box

How do I schedule a septic certification?

 

Please call with any questions. We look forward to helping you.