Why Should I Get a Septic Inspection?

Did you know that nearly 50 percent of homes in North Carolina use a septic system? Septic systems are responsible for treating and disposing the wastewater from your toilet, shower, sinks, and washing machine. With a system that’s responsible for so much and used in so many North Carolina homes, it’s important that you have it inspected upon purchasing a new house. Not only can it save you from unexpected repairs and unnecessary headaches, but it can also protect you and your family’s health.

Avoid Unexpected Repairs

Regular maintenance to a septic system is essential to its longevity. Septic tanks need to be pumped every three to five years, and drain fields need to be inspected to ensure that wastewater is being disposed of properly. If the current homeowner doesn’t know the last time the tank was pumped, you should be weary. Inspections determine the health and wellbeing of your septic system by examining every aspect of it, from drain times in your home to measuring the layers of scum, effluent, and sludge in the tank. This can save you from unnecessary repairs or replacements later on down the road.

Avoid Unnecessary Headaches

Inspections usually take place during the escrow process, once the house is under contract. If the septic system fails the inspection, you as the buyer have the option to back out of the contract without penalty. You also have the option to get the seller involved in any subsequent repairs through the inspection objection contingency. Sellers can replace or fix the system, or they can put money into escrow to cover the replacement costs. Either way, you have the opportunity to save money on repairs or walk away from the purchase completely.

Protect Your Family’s Health

There are many serious health implications of living by a malfunctioning septic system. Inadequately treated sewage can contaminate drinking water wells and cause diseases and infections in people and animals. There are also gasses like methane, nitrate, and sulfide gas that are released from failing septic systems, all of which are toxic. Fumes from failing systems can also waft our airborne bacteria into your home, triggering sinus infections and other respiratory illnesses. All of these dangers can be easily avoided by ensuring that your septic system has been properly maintained.

When purchasing a home that uses a septic system, it’s essential to get it checked. Coastal Property Inspections is proud to offer septic inspections and even offers a discount when combined with a home inspection. Our team aims to satisfy, with the experience and training to back up our word. Ready to schedule your inspections? Give us a call at (252) 670-8599.