Certified Professional

WELL INSPECTIONS 

A well inspection consists of a visual inspection of the exposed system components, pressure readings and flow measurements.  These criteria will give you a general idea as to the condition of the well. 

• Visual Inspection - typically includes: well casing, well head, grade at casing, pressure tank, control switch and pump (if above ground).  Items that are identified as needing repair will be noted.  Examples include: cracked well casing, poor grade, leaking components, rusted tank, improper construction, etc.

• Pressure Readings - taken from the system to ensure that the system pressure will meet minimum requirements for a functional well.

• Water Flow - measurements are taken to ensure that the well is producing an adequate supply of water for the household demands.

SEPTIC INSPECTIONS 

A septic inspection consists of locating and opening the tank access ports, a visual inspection and a load test. This will help to determine if the system is operating as intended.

• Tank Location - If location of the septic tank is unknown, the inspector will attempt to locate it using a ground probe and visual clues such as sewer outlet locations and color changes in the vegetation. Up to 12 inches of earth will be removed to uncover one or more of the access ports.  Additional fees apply if the tank is over 12 inches deep.  The inspector will spend up to ½ hour attempting to locate the tank.  If the tank is unable to be located or accessed the inspector will proceed to a basic flow test.

• Visual Inspection - The interior of the tank will be inspected for the following items: liquid level (helps determine if the tank leaks); presence of inlet and outlet baffles; presence of an outlet filter; evidence of current or prior back-ups within the tank; root penetrations.  Also included in the visual inspection is reviewing the areas of the septic tank and drain field to note any deficiencies such as: trees or other excessive plant growth over the drain field; roadways, concrete or other structures over installed over the drain field or septic tank.

• Load Test - A load test involves placing a measured quantity of water into the system based on the homes' expected daily load.  The liquid level in the tank is noted before, during and after the loading to determine if the drain field is adequately processing the sewage.  After the test, the drain field is walked to detect any sewage breakouts to the surface.  This test may not provide reliable results if the home is vacant or the sewage system has not been used normally prior to the test.

• Basic Load Test - This includes everything listed above with the exception of monitoring the tank liquid level.  Passing this test does not mean that the septic system is working properly.  This test will only identify a backup into the house or a breakout at the tank or drain field.  This test should only be used if the tank cannot be located or accessed (frost, structure over it, etc.).