Five Things To Know Buying A Home With A Septic System
Plumbing malfunctions are not only nasty but also expensive to rectify. Therefore, if you are buying a home with a septic system, you should evaluate the system carefully to confirm that you are not spending money on a broken down system. Here are four important things to know during the evaluation:
The Size of the Tank
This is one of the first things you should know because it determines the efficiency of the system as well as the potential breakdowns. For example, an undersized tank will fill up much faster than normal, leading to frequent pumping. Such an overworked system is also a candidate for frequent breakdowns.
The Age of the Septic Tank
Septic tanks have different lifetime lengths depending on the material of build, but none of them last forever. For example, a steel septic tank that has lasted more than 20 years has probably reached the end of its life and is due for a replacement soon. Don't forget that septic tanks cost tens of thousands of dollars. Therefore, if you are buying a house with a septic tank that is at least that old, negotiate the purchase price knowing well that you are due for a serious expenditure in the near future.
The Location of the Septic Tank
There are three main reasons why you should know the location of the septic tank. First, you need to know the location so that the tank can be accessed easily in case of damage. Secondly, knowing where the tank is located will help you to avoid any activities that may endanger the tank near it. Lastly, if the owner knows the location of the tank, then it's a good bet that they have been taking good care of it.
The Service History of the Tank
Knowing the service history will help you know the present condition of the septic system. It will give you a rough idea on the condition of the tank itself, the pipes, and the septic drain field, among other things. This means you should know how frequently the tank was being pumped, the last time it was pumped, and any emergency repairs it has experienced, among other things. Ideally, the seller's claims should be confirmed by existing records.
This is one of the reasons you should involve professionals such as home inspectors and real estate agents when purchasing residential property for sale. Experienced professionals know what to lookout for so that they can help you safeguard your investment.