Understanding Septic Tank Inspections

Sellers - We won't interrupt your daily routine at all. In fact, the inspection will take place while you are out of the house.
Buyers - We recommend you attend the inspection along with your real estate agent. One of our inspectors will be sure to greet you and then go over the inspection results with the utmost professionalism and courtesy.

OTHER REASONS YOU MAY NEED A SEPTIC INSPECTION

INDOOR PROBLEMS

Sluggish and weak flushing toilets, slow draining sinks and unpleasant odors are all possible signs of a problem.

WET & LUSH DRAINFIELD

Puddles of water or unusually lush grass over your drainfield are also signs of a potential problem that may require an inspection to identify.

REMODELS & ADDITIONS

You'll want to make sure your septic system can handle the updates, and verify the locations so you don't accidentally build over your tank or drainfield.

WHAT'S A SEPTIC INSPECTION?

An inspection includes a walk-through of the yard above the septic system, as well as flushing toilets and running faucet to surge the system and check for leaks or other problems. It also includes checking the inside of your septic tank. The tank is typically pumped out, the drainfield monitored for backflow, and the pipes running to the house are inspected for blockages.

SIGNS YOU NEED A SEPTIC TANK INSPECTION

Septic tanks usually don't experience sudden breakdowns. In most cases, there will be warning signs before more significant problems occur. Here are some common indicators that a septic system needs a professional inspection:

Bad Smells

Foul odors are often the first sign of trouble. In the early stages of a septic problem, you might notice bad smells outside. Smelly wastewater can seep into surface waters, polluting lawns and causing health hazards. Later stages can lead to bad smells indoors as the backflow of water pushes waste into your drains. Wastewater contamination is a major problem, and homeowners should quickly schedule an inspection to avoid health risks.

Clogged Drains

Every drain in a house eventually connects to a single pipe leading to the septic tank. If sinks or shower drains seem slow, they could be backed up by septic issues. An overfilled tank could have a high sludge level, resulting in gurgling noises or pooling water. Routine septic inspections can help you avoid drain problems before they become serious.

Wet Grass

Septic tanks are buried underground. When they work properly, you shouldn't notice any difference between the area with the tank and other parts of the lawn. But a leaking or malfunctioning tank might cause wet grass or muddy patches. You may even notice patches of grass that are extra green and lush due to wastewater in the soil. A leaking tank can destroy lawns and spread toxic wastewater. Schedule an inspection as soon as you notice signs of a leak to prevent worse issues.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD A SEPTIC INSPECTION BE DONE?

Planning regular septic inspections can help you catch problems early and avoid costly breakdowns. Most homes should have septic tank inspections done every 3 to 5 years. Inspections should be done more often if the home's daily wastewater volume is very high or if there's a history of septic problems. Homeowners or prospective buyers can check maintenance records to learn more about past septic issues. If you are selling or buying a home, your real estate agent should be able to tell you if the lender requires a current septic tank inspection report.

TYPES OF SEPTIC INSPECTIONS

Septic inspections fall into two categories: visual inspections and full inspections.

Visual Septic Inspections

Visual inspections are less comprehensive than full inspections but are still helpful. During a visual inspection, the technician checks all indoor and outdoor drains. This includes flushing toilets, running showers, and turning on faucets to make sure all drains are working properly.

Next, the technician checks the drain field. Drain fields let water safely leave the septic tank and filter back into the environment. When working properly, a drain field is safe and sanitary. But if there's standing water, the tank could be malfunctioning and leaking hazardous waste. Drain field issues often indicate bigger septic problems, which is why full inspections are necessary if there are visual signs of problems.

Full Septic Inspections

A full inspection includes the same steps as a visual inspection but goes one step further. After checking the drain field, the technician opens the septic tank itself.

During this process, the technician determines if the tank is draining correctly. High water levels could be a sign the tank has drainage problems, leading to drain field issues. If there are any problems, your technician will explain the issue and help you understand the repair process. Finally, the tank is pumped to remove sludge from the bottom. This ensures the tank has room for more wastewater, letting it work properly until the next inspection.

WE'VE GOT YOUR BACK

ADB Construction & Septic Corp. specializes in septic system inspections, and we have the experience to guide you through the repair and maintenance process regardless of what issues may arise.

Our Inspections Include:

DETAILED REPORT OF CURRENT CONDITION OF SEPTIC SYSTEM
DIAGRAM WITH MEASUREMENTS
RECOMMENDED REPAIRS AND MAINTENANCE

RELIABLE LOCAL SEPTIC SERVICE COMPANY

Real Septic Reviews From Happy Customers

WHAT YOUR NEIGHBORS ARE SAYING

         Posted on Google  
   
   Morgan Almendras 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I’m not a customer but a neighbor of one of their customers and everyone on site right now at the house next door is so kind and considerate, I can tell it’s a good crew
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Robert Mahoney 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Had ADB come and pump my septic tank. Matt arrived and was professional and knowledgeable. Even took video and noticed my system had a filter which also needed cleaning, turns out it probably hadn't been cleaned previously and was clogged. By doing that Matt probably saved me some money and a terrible sewage back up in the future. Great service good price will definitely use ADB for all my septic needs.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   kevin bassett 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Fast service, Matt was great, very knowledgeable and down to earth. Highly recommend for your septic needs
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Mark Tedford 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Matt just came out to clean and drain our septic. He was very polite, and professional. He suggested  a few things to  extend the life of our system.  He basically  put our minds at ease. Great company, we will always  call ADB
  
 
  
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

The septic system alarm going off is an indicator of an issue within the system that requires immediate attention. Possible reasons for the alarm include: high water level in the tank, pump failure, blockage in the system, electrical issues, and component malfunction within the alarm system itself.

Typically, septic tanks should be pumped every 3 years. However, the frequency can vary based on household size, water usage, and tank size.

Warning signs include foul odors, slow draining sinks/toilets, pooling water in the yard, or gurgling noises from drains. These may indicate a potential issue with the system.

It's advisable to avoid unnecessary additives as they might disrupt the natural bacterial balance in the tank. Regular pumping and proper maintenance are typically sufficient.

Avoid flushing non-biodegradable items (e.g., wipes, feminine hygiene products) and pouring grease, oil, chemicals, or medications down drains, as they can harm the system and the environment.

Regular maintenance, conserving water, avoiding excess use of garbage disposals, and being mindful of what goes into drains can help prevent problems.

Certain trees and shrubs with shallow root systems may damage the septic system. It's best to consult with professionals before planting near the tank or drain field.

Building structures or paving over the system can hinder access for maintenance and repairs. It's crucial to adhere to local regulations and consult professionals before making changes.

Properly maintained septic systems can last for several decades. However, regular inspections and maintenance are essential for longevity.

If you experience a backup, minimize water usage immediately and contact a septic professional for assistance. Avoid using sinks, toilets, or other water fixtures until the issue is resolved.

Morgan Almendras

I’m not a customer but a neighbor of one of their customers and everyone on site right now at the house next door is so kind and considerate, I can tell it’s a good crew

Robert Mahoney

Had ADB come and pump my septic tank. Matt arrived and was professional and knowledgeable. Even took video and noticed my system had a filter which also needed cleaning, turns out it probably hadn't been cleaned previously and was clogged. By doing that Matt probably saved me some money and a terrible sewage back up in the future. Great service good price will definitely use ADB for all my septic needs.

kevin bassett

Fast service, Matt was great, very knowledgeable and down to earth. Highly recommend for your septic needs

Mark Tedford

Matt just came out to clean and drain our septic. He was very polite, and professional. He suggested a few things to extend the life of our system. He basically put our minds at ease. Great company, we will always call ADB

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