Because of concerns of leaking wastewater into nearby water systems, many states are considering mandatory residential septic tank inspections.
Environmental Concerns
Septic tanks store wastewater in a large underground tank. When the tank isn’t pumped regularly or adequately maintained, raw sewage can leak into nearby groundwater as well as neighboring bodies of water. If leaking happens on a mass scale, it can be hazardous not only for the people living in the surrounding areas but for all wildlife. In Florida, out of 2-3 million septic tanks, 10% are regularly leaking harmful particles into the local groundwater. This is also a safe estimate for most states.
Concerns About Mandatory Inspections
Homeowners and local officials of every state worry that mandatory inspections could end up being extremely expensive. In Florida, where a bill to make mandatory inspections law is in the process, an inspection would be required every five years. Most septic system experts recommend those home systems should be inspected once a year, so if you’re taking care of your septic system, mandatory inspections shouldn’t be an issue.
What a Septic Inspection Involves
When your septic tank system is inspected by a professional, they will look for the following things:
- The date that the tank was last pumped
- Make sure the sludge level does not occupy more than 1/3 of the tank
- Distance to local streams and wells
- Ensure the tank is large enough for the home it’s servicing
- Check for leaking waste
- Check the drain lines
- Check that the baffles are secure
Even if your state does not require mandatory inspections, it’s imperative that you have your septic tank system inspected once a year. It’s also essential that you get on a regular pumping schedule and call the professionals at Affordable Pumping Services at the first sign of a problem. Septic tanks are an economical and environmentally friendly waste management option when they’re properly maintained.