If you’re thinking about purchasing a home that relies on a septic system, then it’s essential to understand how to care for it properly. It’s designed to direct wastewater away from the property to a septic tank, where the effluent flows to the drain field. Practicing regular septic tank care is vital to the safety of the system and your household plumbing. Here are three steps to take before you sign on the dotted line.

What to Do Before Buying a Home With a Septic Tank

1. Learn Its History

The previous homeowner can provide you with extensive information about the tank’s background. At a minimum, it should have a history of regular pumping—at least every three years—to ensure that it works efficiently. Request paperwork regarding septic tank care so that you can follow the schedule and stay on top of essential septic maintenance.

2. Ask About Its Age

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the life span of the entire system ranges from 15 to 40 years. Regular septic tank care can promote its longevity and ensure that it lasts for even longer. Find out the system’s age; if the homeowner is not aware, you can find out through a county permit. If it’s in disrepair, you can use that as leverage when negotiating the price of the home with the seller.

3. Hire an Expert

Ultimately, you can only be certain of the system’s condition after a professional inspects it thoroughly. Home inspectors, however, can’t do the same type of thorough job that you would receive from a septic service technician.

They’ll check all of the system’s components to ensure that it works efficiently, and that the tank, inlet pipes, and drain field are all in good condition. Only then can you truly feel comfortable about purchasing the home.

Before you purchase a home with a septic tank, make sure that the entire system is in working order. Turn to the team at Green Acres Septic Tank Service, proudly serving homeowners throughout Callaway County. They offer a wide range of septic tank care services, including pumping and repairs. Visit them online to learn more about how they can help you, or call them at (573) 529-6706.