Septic System Inspections
A septic inspection is an involved process that can take up to two hours. We gather environmental documents pertaining to the property by contacting the county. Once on site, we locate the septic tank and field by using a probing technique or electronic devices. We dig to gain access to the tank in order to inspect it.
We examine for key components, such as an intact structure and inlet and outlet pipes. Next we examine the septic field through several bore holes. We evaluate the soil, stone, and pipe conditions to determine if the field is functioning properly. Once the inspection is complete, we cover up the tank and the bore holes in the ground.
After the physical inspection we provide a written report, make recommendations, and educate our clients. We try to answer all pertinent questions while on site. Recommendations are made regarding ways to correct any issues that were discovered. The final typed report includes detailed information regarding the findings, as well as pictures, and a diagram of the septic system on the property.
Why Inspect Your Septic System?
- To save money. A failing septic system can be very costly, especially if it no longer can be repaired and needs to be replaced. Even when the system can be repaired, the expense is much greater than that of a simple cleaning. A failing septic system can also cause your property value to go down.
- To preserve health. A failing septic system is a real health hazard. Sewage may contain harmful disease-causing bacteria and viruses. When a system fails, sewage may back up into the house and may also rise to the ground surface over the drain field. People and pets can be exposed to these harmful bacteria and viruses.
- To save the environment. A failing septic system may also result in the discharge of sewage into nearby lakes and streams, resulting in impaired water quality and beach closings.
When to Inspect Your Septic System?
- Buying or selling property
- Routinely to ensure the septic system is running smoothly
- Toilets not flushing
- Sewage backing up into the house or yard
- Increase in family size
- When expanding the house or building additions (i.e. a pool, a pole barn, etc.
Warning Signs of a Failing Septic System
- Odors, surfacing sewage, wet spots or lush vegetation in the drain field area
- Plumbing or septic tank backups, water in the stone layer, and black stone.
- Slow-draining fixture, not due to local clogging
- Gurgling sounds in the plumbing system
Your septic tank should be pumped out by a licensed operator every 3-5 years, depending on use.
Do’s and Don’ts for Septic System Maintenance
- DO have the septic tank pumped out by a licensed operator every 3-5 years, depending on use.
- DO know where it is located and have a way to reach it to be sure it can be pumped easily.
- DO limit the amount of kitchen waste you put into the system through a garbage disposal.
- DO use bleaches, detergents, soaps, bowl cleaners, or drain cleaner. But be conservative in their use.
- DO NOT allow heavy vehicles to drive over the drain field, the drain tiles will be damaged.
- DO NOT allow trees and shrubs to grow over the septic field/tank.
- DO NOT allow large amounts of water to be drained into the septic tank at the same time. (Space out your laundry throughout the week.)
- DO NOT connect downspouts, sump pumps, or water softener backwash to the septic system.
- DO NOT put harmful materials down your drains, such as fats, oils, septic additives, solvents, or solids, like plastic, paper towels, feminine hygiene products, or disposable diapers.
What is Involved in a Septic Inspection?
- Flushing toilets
- Checking yard for puddles above the drain field
- Checking sludge vs. water level inside the septic tank
- Taking core samples from the drain field and looking for standing sewage/water
- Checking for breaks or blockages in the septic system
- Checking for root invasion from shrubs or trees
- After the inspection is complete a detailed report will be provided with instructions on how to avoid problems in the future.
For a free estimate call us to schedule your Septic System Inspection today 248-499-3966 or send us an email at
See information on how to maintain a healthy Septic System in the State of Michigan.