Septic System
Inspection &
Certification
In California, every property with an on-site septic system must undergo inspection before the property is sold.
A septic inspection is a pre-sale process that documents a home's septic system before ownership changes.
A licensed company must perform the septic inspection (Center Septic is licensed for this inspection) which documents how the system is functioning. The seller is responsible for repairing any damage to the septic system and the buyer is usually responsible for the cost of the inspection. The seller must disclose any known issues with the septic system to the buyer. If the buyer finds out about issues after closing, the seller may be liable for the cost of repairs.
What does our inspection service cover?
Center Septic's inspection and certification service includes pumping all tank contents out, a thorough inspection of the tank and all components, a 6-page report that includes various photos and definitions, and depending on the report findings, either a certification or recommendation of repairs. We pride ourselves on giving the most honest and upfront service possible! We know and understand how stressful the escrow process can be! We are happy to say we develop and maintain great relationships with our local realtors and work diligently to provide the best service for each escrow.
Time for an inspection?
If you're selling a property or buying a property with a septic system, give Center Septic a call at (760) 749-0402 to perform this required inspection for you. Our fee for this service is $205 plus the cost of pumping ($500+) and labor at $185/hr with a 1 hour minimum. This includes the certification if your system passes the test, or a recommendation of repairs if it doesn't.
Here are some potential reasons why a system may fail inspection in San Diego:
- Lack of maintenance: Infrequent pumping or not performing routine check-ups can cause sludge to build up, which can lead to clogging and system failure
- Tree roots: Trees planted near the drainfield can clog the distribution pipes
- Overloading the system: Using too much water, often from household appliances, can flood the system and prevent proper treatment
- Full septic tank: The septic tank may be full of dirt and in non-working condition
- Pipe blockages: Blockages in the pipes may be preventing proper drainage
- Leach field problems: The leach field may be wet, which could indicate overuse or system failure
- Groundwater intrusion: Groundwater can cause a septic system to fail if it intrudes into the system or if the soil becomes saturated
