Selling your home is an exciting and stressful process. You’ll probably find all kinds of things you need to fix and take care of to prepare your house for the market. If you’re selling property with a septic system, there may be some additional steps you should take. Depending on where you live, you may be required to have the septic system inspected and pumped before selling your home.
For example, in Tacoma-Pierce County, septic systems must be pumped and inspected before the property can be sold and transferred. Further, you must file the proper documentation with the appropriate office to be in compliance. A Report of System Status (or RSS) is required to show you had an Operation and Maintenance (O&M) Inspection completed by a certified company. The report also indicates that your system is in good working order and acceptable for sale.
Do You Need A Septic System Inspection?
It’s critical to keep your septic system in good working order, not just for its functionality but also for the health and safety of your family and neighbors. Whether you’re buying or selling a home, having a septic system inspection is required before the sale can be completed.
In Washington, the buyer is responsible for paying for a septic inspection. Still, you may want to arrange for an inspection beforehand to ensure everything is in good working order. Or you may offer the inspection as part of the purchase agreement.
Getting your system inspected before putting your home up for sale can help you identify potential issues before the deal is on the line. That way, you’re not caught up making costly repairs instead of getting your home sold.
Have Your Tank Pumped For The Septic System Inspection
An essential part of the inspection process is having the septic system pumped. In order for the technician or inspector to see the tank’s bottom and walls, all the liquid and sludge must be removed.
Once the tank is emptied, the inspector can look for visible damage or cracks. Then, they’ll test the system’s flow and drainage and check the drain field. They’ll also check the system’s components and controls to ensure everything works correctly.
What If There’s A Problem With The Septic System?
If the technician discovers damage or other concerns during the inspection, they’ll report the issues to the property owner. You’ll need to address the problems and make any necessary repairs before proceeding with the home’s sale.
Problems can stem from poor maintenance over time, which is why it’s so imperative to keep up with routine inspections and maintenance and have your system pumped every three to five years.
Still, if your system needs repairs, a professional septic company can assess the damage and get your system back up and running. So whether it’s a problem with the tank or damage to your drain field, you’ll want to get it taken care of quickly.
If your system has deficiencies, your Report of System Status (RSS) application may be put on hold until you can make the necessary repairs. Unfortunately, in some cases, the repairs may take longer than you have until closing. You may be able to apply for a 90-Day Conditional RSS to allow the buyers to make the repairs after the sale. Still, you’ll want a knowledgeable and experienced professional to guide you through the process.
A Septic System Inspection Can Help You Sell Your Home Faster
Don’t wait until you have an offer on the table to have your septic system inspected. If you’re selling your home, you’ll want to be sure your septic system is in good condition and works properly before you list the property.
In fact, many states and counties require a professional septic system inspection before a home sale can take place.
All Septic & Sewer can inspect and pump your septic system to get it ready for listing on the market. They’ll identify any potential problems and work with you on repairs and solutions to help your home sell.
Plus, with over 20 years of experience serving King, Pierce, and Thurston Counties, they’re very familiar with the local regulations and requirements. So they can perform the inspection, pump your tank, make repairs, and file the required Report of System Status (RSS) with the Health Department. That way, you won’t have to worry about anything other than getting your home sold.
So don’t wait for an emergency to have your system inspected and pumped. Instead, call All Septic & Sewer today or contact us using our online form. For more septic system repair and maintenance tips, be sure to follow us on Facebook!