Buying a Home With a Septic System: A Checklist

Before you make an offer

• Ask the seller what type of system it is (conventional or aerobic) and its age
• Ask for pumping and repair records
• For aerobic systems, ask whether there is a current maintenance contract and recent inspection reports
• Ask whether the permit and as-built drawing are available from the county

During the option period

Schedule a dedicated septic inspection, separate from the general home inspection. Many buyers have the tank pumped at the same time so the inspector can see its condition. For aerobic systems, the inspector should test the aerator, pumps, alarm and spray heads.

Red flags

• Soggy ground, odors or lush patches over the drain field
• No records at all, or no idea where the tank is
• Aerobic system with a lapsed maintenance contract
• Additions to the house (more bedrooms) that the system may not have been sized for

Need an inspection before closing? Request a septic inspection.