Failing septic systems and cesspools are a major cause of contaminated drinking water, tainted shellfish beds and polluted beaches. You should protect yourself, your family and your neighbors from these public health threats by having an inspection of any private sewage disposal systems before the sale, expansion or change in use of properties where they are present.
Most systems will pass inspection, and systems that fail must be repaired or upgraded. If you own a home with a septic system and have plans to put it up for sale, add a bedroom or convert it for different use, you will also need to have your septic system inspected.
When you need to hire a septic system inspector, there are two important things you need to bear in mind. First, inspectors can charge whatever their customers are willing to pay so it often pays to shop around. The fee also may vary depending on the complexity of the inspection. Second, only certain professionals are qualified to perform certain septic system inspections. For a list of qualified system inspectors in your area, consider contacting your local health department.
Before hiring a septic tank inspector, do some comparison shopping. Get written estimates from several septic system inspectors. One key question to ask is whether the price of the inspection includes pumping the system. Before signing any contract, be absolutely certain that it spells out precisely what work is going to be done, how much it is going to cost, what the payment terms are, and whether the septic tank inspector stands behind their work. Once the inspection is complete, make sure the person who signs the form is the same person who conducted the inspection.
