GET A PROFESSIONAL SEPTIC INSPECTION

A new septic system can cost over $30,000.  Isn't it worth it to spend a few extra hundred dollars before the purchase to avoid that problem? 

Sure it is.  And if you are like most home buyers, you are lulled into believing that the TREC (Texas Real Estate Comm ission) home inspection is a fair evaluation of the expensive components of the new home you are considering.  You would be wrong. 

Apart from having no real, actual experience with septic systems, all that  TREC inspector can tell is what is obvious: 

• There is a septic smell
• There is actual septic on the ground
• The motor for the aerator is not running
• The ground is wet where it shouldn't be

Other than that, you are on your own, which is why you need to have a qualified septic inspector, someone who functions in the business and is capable of evaluating the capacity, efficiency, quality, age and condition of the septic system. 

Here is excellent advice from www.AllSepticCheck.com out of Manchaca (South Austin), Texas:

1. Inspections/ Real Estate Re-sales

   NOTE: Buyers, Sellers, Realtors, this might be helpful.
   What we do during a septic system Inspection:

   1. Order septic system records from the Health Department or licensing authority in your jurisdiction.
   2. Inspect the inside/integrity of the tank. (tank should be pumped out during the inspection)
   3. Activate the pump and high water alarm (if applicable).
   4. Add water to all disposable fields and measure to make sure fields are taking on water, sufficiently. (i.e. roots, or biomat in field)
   5. Inspect ground surface of disposal fields.
   6. Check inspection ports in drain fields.
   7. Inspect for gray water discharge.
   8. Inspect set backs for water wells, structures, and utility lines.
   9. Make sure that system was built as per plans and/or try to determine if system built meets the requirements for the house that was constructed.
   10. We give you a written report after the inspection.

In addition, www.AllSepticCheck.com has the following qualifications:

.Licensed I Installer #0819
. Licensed II Installer #819
. TCEQ Registered Maintenance Provider
. TCEQ Waste transporter
. Site Evaluator #11569

Their phone number is:  (512) 961-4972. 

If you are not in the Austin area, Google "septic inspection______" with the name of your town in the blank.