When you buy a new home the last thing on your mind might be to check up on how your septic system is functioning. You’ve got a million things to figure out, and sometimes the things we can’t see, the systems functioning behind the scenes, are the ones we often forget about. They could also be the most detrimental.
While you’re probably familiar with the standard home inspection process, properties with private septic systems require an additional step. A septic inspection for real estate transactions gives buyers a clearer picture of the system’s condition before closing and can help protect one of the biggest investments they’ll ever make.
Why Septic Inspections Matter When Buying a Home
Septic tanks tend to go unnoticed by homeowners, mostly because you don’t usually know there’s a problem with them until it becomes something very big, and very expensive. The fact that septic inspections aren’t routinely performed alongside a regular home inspection only adds to the lack of knowledge or information on how the system is quietly functioning. However, a real estate septic inspection can uncover hidden issues and before they turn into costly repairs, potentially saving buyers thousands of dollars and give them valuable negotiating power before a sale is finalized.
A septic inspection can easily:
- Detects leaks, cracks, blockages, and other hidden issues before they cause major system failures.
- Confirm the system is operating properly and complies with local regulations and current building codes.
- Help extend the lifespan of the system through early maintenance recommendations while protecting your investment and the environment.
What Does a Septic Inspection Include?
As part of the real estate septic inspection process, professionals will conduct a comprehensive assessment of the entire system. This typically includes a flow test to ensure the system is running efficiently, measuring sludge and scum levels, checking septic alarms, and using specialized inspection cameras with flexible rods and remote viewing to examine hard-to-reach areas.
Pre-purchase inspections also include a documentation review which looks at items such as permits and the age of the system as well as a detailed report that summarizes all of the findings of the inspection.
Common Problems Found During Septic Inspections
A septic inspection can identify hidden issues before they become major problems, helping buyers prepare for future repairs and providing valuable information during price negotiations.
Some of the main issues found in septic inspections include:
- Cracked or damaged pipes along with clogs, corrosions or misaligned connections in pipes.
- Root intrusions throughout the underground system.
- Slow drainage, backflow, standing water, and excessive biomat buildup.
- Layout problems that could be causing issues to the overall septic system.
Common Septic Deal-Breakers During a Home Purchase
Small repairs or minor findings can occur during any inspection, however, there are some larger problems to watch out for that could result in a major cost for a buyer or seller of a home. Here are some of the most common deal breakers to keep an eye out for in your septic inspection report.
- A structurally compromised tank with significant cracks or corrosion
- A saturated leach field with sewage surfacing or standing water above the field
- Wastewater backing up into the home
- Non-compliant or illegal components that violate Ontario Building Code
Who Pays For a Septic Inspection and What’s the Cost?
The buyer of the property will usually pay for the septic inspection alongside other costs such as their home inspection. However, sellers can also pay for the inspection ahead of their home sale to better promote transparency and demonstrate responsible system care, this can often strengthen their position when hitting the market.
Inspection prices can vary largely depending on the property itself, the complexity and location of the septic system. However, most homeowners in Ontario can expect to pay between $300-$500 for a full assessment with a written report.
Although it may seem like an additional expense during the home-buying process, a professional septic inspection can uncover problems that cost thousands to repair—making it one of the most valuable inspections you’ll invest in.
Buy with Confidence Through a Professional Septic Inspection
Septic systems play a critical role in the value of a rural property and can impact the immediate sale conditions and long-term investment potential.
Whether you’re buying, selling, or representing a client, BioFlow Septic Solutions provides thorough septic inspections for real estate transactions, complete with detailed reporting and expert recommendations. Book an inspection today to move forward with confidence as a buyer, seller, or agent for your clients, knowing you have a clear picture of what’s happening beneath the surface of your property.
