Septic System Inspections

The purpose of a septic system is to hold and treat the home’s wastewater, and then safely disperse it underground without causing adverse effect to sub-surface ground water.

A complete septic system has four elements:

1. A sewer pipe from the home to the septic tank
2. The septic tank
3. Distribution system
4. A leaching system

Septic Tests
There are two septic system tests available for contract purchasers.

1. SEPTIC DYE TEST (Performed by Alban Home Inspectors)
   A chemical dye is poured into the septic system from a toilet or drain in the home. A sufficient amount of water is run into the septic tank to disperse the dye through and out of the tank at the outlet side. A re-inspection of the property is made days later to determine if there is any evidence of a septic breakout, evidenced by red colored soils downstream from the septic tank. Alban issues a mortgagee’s certificate stating there is no visual evidence of a septic breakout, which is acceptable for settlement.
   
2. VISUAL TANK INSPECTION (Performed by a contractor)
   This septic inspection protocol is recommended by the Maryland Department of the Environment in their septic accreditation course:
   a. Interview of the occupants
   b. Review health department records
   c. Pump the interior of the tank dry and visually inspect the interior and its baffles
   d. Issue a written report to client.