While the condition of the septic system may not be the first thing people in the market for a new home think about, it should never be overlooked. A septic system—which includes pipes, a septic tank, and a drain field—is a critical part of a fully functioning home, and a malfunctioning system can quickly bring about a state of crisis in any household. Here are a few useful tips to make sure your next home's septic system is in good shape. 

What to Find Out Regarding a Septic System

1. Confirm an Inspection Has Been Done

When you're seriously considering buying a home, you want to make sure that the sellers have recently carried out a professional septic inspection. Make sure to carefully read through the inspector's report, following up with him or her by phone if you flagged any parts of the report or have other questions. Remember that in almost all cases, it's the home-seller's responsibility to have the septic system inspected. A prospective buyer should rarely have to pay for this important step. 

2. Find Out How Old the Septic System Is

While septic tanks last a long time—in most cases, 40 years or more—it's still important to find out just how long a house has used the current drainfield . Older homes may have had the same field for 20-30 years,or longer, and while it may have passed inspection, septic systems  that old should be taken into consideration when looking at the complete package of the home. 

3. Ask for Maintenance Records

Talk to septic system professionals, and they'll tell you that while septic tanks don't need to be repaired very often, it is of paramount importance that they're pumped every 3 to 5 years. Ask the sellers for maintenance records on their septic system, and make sure it's gotten pumped 2 or 3 times a decade. If it hasn't, it could spell serious problems for the drain field. 

Founded in 2004, Reliable Septic Services Inc. has rapidly established itself as among the most dependable septic service professionals in the Savannah, GA, area. The highly experienced team handles tank installations and inspections, and they always do their best to carry out their work in a prompt fashion that doesn't inconvenience homeowners. Like the company’s Facebook page to learn more about their services, or speak with an expert directly at (912) 604-3088.