Septic tank - red flag?

Question

Hi BP folks, I am about to make an offer on a house when I found out the house has a septic tank. I do not know anything about it, but after doing some basic reading, it looks like an expensive affair.

Firstly, should I pass on the house because it has a septic tank? any disadvantages.

Secondly, if septic tanks are ok? What all should I make sure has been repaired, maintained, serviced etc. and how much budget should I account for its maintenance monthly?

Any inputs will be much appreciated.

The house is 24 years old.

Thanks!!

Account Closed · Answer

@Rohan Deshpande here in California retail buyers will want a certification by a Septic company that both tanks are ok (preferably recently pumped) and a leach field test.

Local Septic companies may have records on pumping dates, service done, vault head and clean out locations.

"As builts" and or bldg department may have records on charges or leach field extensions.

Do your due diligence

Account Closed · Answer

@Rohan Deshpande

Theresa Harris · Answer

The only thing I would ensure is you have the septic inspected.  It is separate from the house inspection, but critically important.  If it is in good shape, don't worry.  They don't require much maintenance (pumping when it is full which will depend on usage) and making sure your tenants know they have to be careful with cleaners (no bleach) and the usual... just flush toilet paper down the toilet.

Rohan D. · Answer

thank you guys for the valuable information!!

Justin Tahilramani · Answer

Its impossible to say - every location is different. My area does not require any annual inspections. Additionally, in my area I can get a brand new system installed for about $4,500. Many parts of the country have restrictions that make septic installations cost $12 - 15k.

Pat L. · Answer

We have one (circa 1990) at our Lakehouse & it's been fine since 2015 when it was last pumped. We have a dishwasher, 2 baths, 2.5 bathrooms & a laundry flowing into it.  BUT if it ever needs to be replaced the code is stringent & the upgrade is very expensive. Can't have a septic that MAY seep into the lake while the dairy farm of 1500 head, 2 miles upstream does & has done for 30 years. One of our neighbors did replace his entire system & then after the $15k install they had to rip out the entire leech field again as the kid running the heavy equipment drove over it crushing all the leech field chambers!!!

We HM financed several properties last year, all with septics. All tested OK & the cost per test ran $150-$550. Had another we passed on because of a new city/town specific code requiring a $3,500-$4,500 Septic Fabric Drain Guard surrounding the leech field. We were concerned that by digging around the leech field we would compromise the field & it would require replacement.

Good luck!!!

Rohan D. · Answer

Thank you Justin, appreciate your inputs. Do you have a ball park number of the how much it takes ($)(monthly/one time) to maintain a septic tank?I will get in touch with a septic inspection company and try to get an idea of the health of the tank.

thanks again!

Justin Tahilramani · Answer

Millions upon millions of homes in America have septic systems. You need to decide whether or not you are comfortable with investing in a home that has one. Many of our homes are on septic and some are much older than 24 yrs. A lot has to do with local regulations and the types of soils that are prevalent in your area. As a general rule of thumb - sandy soils are better than high concentrations of clay/rock. Have you contacted any septic inspection companies in your area? They are likely your best resource. They can tell you what to look out for and inspect the system to determine the condition.