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Septic Tanks and Absorption Fields are A Homeowner's Responsibility.
Did you know that as a homeowner youre responsible for maintaining your septic system? Did you know that maintaining your septic system protects your investment in your home? Did you know that you should periodically inspect your system and pump out your septic tank? If properly designed, constructed, and maintained, your septic system can provide long-term, effective treatment of household wastewater. If your septic system isnt maintained, you might need to replace it, costing you thousands of dollars. A malfunctioning system can contaminate groundwater that might be a source of drinking water. And if you sell your home, your septic system must be in good working order.
Your Septic Evaluation By Freedom Home Inspections
Scope:  A Septic Evaluation is an examination of the septic tank and absorption field when accessible, performed for a fee, which is designed to identify observed defects within the specific components of the said system.  Components may include any combination of mechanical, structural, plumbing, or other portions of the system tank and field, as agreed upon by the client and inspector prior to the evaluation process.
1. A septic system evaluation is intended to assist in the evaluation of the overall condition of the system as observed on the day and at the time of the inspection. 
2. A septic system evaluation will not reveal every concern that exists or ever could exist, but only those material defects on the day of the inspection. 
Standards of Practice:  Freedom Home Inspections will follow these Standard Operating Procedures:
  1. Inspector will follow visual clues at the residence to locate the position of the tank and the field. 
  2. A fluorescent dye will be put into the system from a main floor toilet and the system will be loaded with water from the kitchen sink and a second source to help determine if the fluid level and scum layer is acceptable, when they are visible.
  3. If manually accessible and not greater 16” below grade, Freedom Home Inspections will dig the soil in the area assumed to be the lid, try to locate the lid, and open the tank for full view of the baffle, if visible.
  4. When the lid is accessible and manually maneuverable, it will be removed to expose the tank.  The inspector will identify the inlet baffle and verify it is operational when possible.  The fluid level and scum layer will also be verified at this time. 
  5. If the lid is inaccessible or manually impossible to lift at the time of the inspection, the homeowner may contact Freedom Home Inspections to fully inspect the baffle at the time of the next regular clean out for a minimal trip fee.
  6. Freedom Home Inspections will provide a detailed report to the client within approximately 3 business days of the evaluation. 

Limitations, Exceptions & Exclusions

 

A septic system evaluation is not technically or manually exhaustive. 

An septic evaluation may not identify concealed or latent defects. 

A septic evaluation does not determine the life expectancy of the system

A septic evaluation is not a guarantee of future performance.

In vacant or seasonal homes, septic systems can not be accurately evaluated. 

10 Simple Steps to keep Your System Working Properly

  1. Locate your septic tank and drainfield. Keep a drawing of these locations in your records.
  2. Have your septic system inspected at least every three years.
  3. Pump your septic tank as needed (generally every three to five years).
  4. Don't dispose of household hazardous wastes in sinks or toilets.
  5. Keep other household items, such as dental floss, feminine hygiene products, condoms, diapers, and cat litter out of your system.
  6. Use water efficiently.
  7. Plant only grass over and near your septic system. Roots from nearby trees or shrubs might clog and damage the system. Also, do not apply manure or fertilizers over the drainfield.
  8. Keep vehicles and livestock off your septic system. The weight can damage the pipes and tank, and your system may not drain properly under compacted soil.
  9. Keep gutters and basement sump pumps from draining into or near your septic system.
  10. Check with your local health department before using additives. Commercial septic tank additives do not eliminate the need for periodic pumping and can be harmful to your system.

How Does It Work?

A typical septic system has four main components: a pipe from the home, a septic tank, a  drainfield, and the soil. Microbes in the soil digest or remove most contaminants from wastewater before it eventually reaches groundwater. The septic tank is a buried, watertight container typically made of concrete, fiberglass, or polyethylene. It holds the wastewater long enough to allow solids to settle out (forming sludge) and oil and grease to float to the surface (as scum). It also allows partial decomposition of the solid materials. Compartments and a T-shaped outlet in the septic tank prevent the sludge and scum from leaving the tank and traveling into the drainfield area. Screens are also recommended to keep solids from entering the drainfield. The wastewater exits the septic tank and is discharged into the drainfield for further treatment by the soil. Microorganisms in the soil provide final treatment by removing harmful bacteria, viruses, and nutrients.

Contact 810-348-6001 to Schedule Your Evaluation!

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