Reasons You Need a Septic Inspection When Buying a New Home

Many cities and counties require home sellers to have a septic inspection performed before they can sell the home. There are several reasons that this is a mandate, and also several benefits to be had from doing so. Namely, it saves the buyer from inheriting a potential sewer nightmare that could cost tens of thousands of dollars. 

Outdated sewers, old clay tiles, and other potential hazards lurk deep underground, and we often have no idea until something goes wrong. The next thing you know, you’ve got a crew digging up the yard and making a bigger mess of things before they can replace the sewer lines and get things back in order.

Here are the main reasons that you should demand a sewer inspection before you purchase a home.

Health and Safety 

Sewer and septic inspections check systems for all manner of potential issues and hazards. They look for broken or leaking pipes, tree roots clogging the way, and other things that could lead to serious sewer backup issues in the future. This ensures that your family’s health and safety is protected when you buy a new home. 

Sewer problems are dangerous because sewage is contaminated and sewer gases are highly toxic—you should never buy a home without knowing what the sewer or septic situation is like. 

Save the Risk of Huge Repairs 

Whether the seller knows it or not, there are many instances when a home is listed on the market with serious sewer and drainage problems. Sometimes, there may be problems arise that could cost a lot of money, and in the process of the sale, the buyer suddenly assumes that risk. However, that’s not fair to the buyer, who is purchasing a home assuming that it’s in good condition. 

Even if you aren’t required to have sewer inspections on homes being sold in your area, you should make it a part of the contract so that you can protect yourself and your wallet. If you have to replace a sewer line, the average cost is around $4,000 and you could spend as much as $7,500 or more if additional work is required. 

Know Your System 

It’s also helpful to get a sewer inspection to get a good look at your system. Sewer cameras can show you the inside of the sewer lines and how things look. Plus, Elk Grove Village Sewer & Plumbing can give you a seal of approval once their inspection is complete. If you’re buying a home, don’t sign the final contracts until you have a clean bill of septic health in hand.