Getting your own house is exciting, but there is a lot you have to do and know to make sure that you are getting the best property for your need. After all, nobody wants to buy a home only to find out later on that it will cost a lot to repair or fix.
One of the most important things you need to consider is finding out more about the home’s waste system. Does it have a sewer system or a septic tank? If the house uses a septic system, it is likely that you will also have a well on your property. This is because areas that mainly use septic systems are those that do not have access to the commercial water utility providers, probably due to their remote location.
This can be a lot for many potential homeowners to take in, but we are here to guide you in your home purchase, one step at a time. When looking for service, your local septic service company or local well drillers can handle the work properly.
How is a septic system different from a sewer system?
The main difference between a septic system to a sewer system that we are more familiar with is how it treats the wastewater at your own property. Compared to a sewer system that is managed by your local municipality, septic tanks are your own responsibility. Everything must be kept in great condition, and if you want to buy a home that uses a septic system, you need to understand how it basically works.
The septic system is designed to prevent contaminating groundwater by storing the wastewater in the septic tank and then break it down into a natural element that is no longer harmful to our ecosystem. This process “cleanses” the wastewater and makes sure that it will not make its way to the drinkable water you use for your daily needs.
Is buying a home with a septic system worth it?
When you know that taking care of a septic system will be the homeowner’s responsibility, it may sound like too much work. However, don’t let this turn you off completely from buying the property.
As mentioned above, if the house is using a septic system, it is because the property may not be eligible for or does not have access to a sewer system. This is common in areas that are too far from a local municipal line or is not connected to one at the moment. However, there are a lot of benefits that come with having a septic system. They are more cost-effective, environmentally friendly, and safer than relying on municipal services.
Buying a house with a septic system is absolutely worth your money, as long as you are sure that it is well-constructed, well-maintained, and if you have the time to take care of it once you ultimately decide to get the property.
What you should do before buying the house
Here are some of the things you need to look for and know before buying the property. Like all things, rushing in signing your contract can be something you will regret in the long run.
1.Do your research.
Septic systems are very different from how a sewer system works. Learn about the parts of the septic system, how it works, and what you can or cannot do with the system. Most importantly, know more about the codes and regulations in owning a septic system in the area. Chances are, you may spend a lot if the locality determines that you will need a bigger septic tank.
2.Have the septic system inspected by a professional
Talk to the house owner and ask about their septic system. Where it is, when it was last inspected, what company designed and constructed it, how long ago was the last maintenance work, are there any problems with it, etc. See if they can give you a copy of the system’s maintenance records.
Contact a local septic inspector and see if there are any issues with the system. This is where a septic system inspection is crucial. Make sure to do a site survey and look for soggy and smelly areas in the lawn, standing water issues, and gurgling or clogging water fixtures.
3.Know what it takes to maintain the system: Inspection and pumping your septic
Septic systems usually last for around 25 to 40 years. Owners have to practice proper use of their plumbing and make sure that they will follow the guidelines in maintaining the septic system.
If you do not take care of your septic seriously, it will eventually cause problems with your well water. You can avoid this by having your well inspected at least once a year and your septic system once every three years. Have your tank pumped whenever necessary.
If you will have a lot of people in your house, you will need to have your tank pumped more often. Pumping makes your system work more efficiently for many years. If your inspector sees problems with your septic pump, have it repaired by a professional as soon as you can.
Conclusion
Conducting a septic system inspection can save you from the bad decision of buying a property that will be expensive to repair. If the inspector has given you the go signal, owning a house with a septic system may be best for you and your family.
Follow Home Inside for more!