How to Inspect Septic Systems

Inspection & Writing Assignment:

Here I have shown a photo of a PVC wastewater pipe for my home that transitions into a metal pipe as it exits the foundation. Also pictures is a PVC clean out to allow for easy access should any issues arise. I also determined that my particular house is connected to municipal services.

Research & Writing Assignment:

The image that I chose to study was side cross section of a concrete septic tank. This image was useful to me due to the detail in the baffles hight relative to the hight of the clear zone and scum. Also important to note that the inlets and outlet positions in relation to the fluid level.

Inspection & Writing Assignment:

This new construction home experienced a sewer backup into the home prior to closing. The toilets were removed and the plumbing drainage system was pressure tested for leaks. The cause ended up being a broken main line in the street that filled with sand obstructing drainage.

Research & Writing Assignment:

Article Review: Septic System Inspections

This article describes what as septic system is and when a septic system should be inspected. The article describes how to identify and locate the components of the septic system and what deficiencies should be identified during the inspection.

Inspection & Writing Assignment:

this is a concrete septic tank . Its durable and often lasts 40 years or more, though its usually the most expensive option. When transporting a cement unit to the site is difficult, fiberglass generally becomes the next best choice. The most economical choice is plastic,Most families can use a 1,000-gallon tank

Research & Writing Assignment:

A septic system receives, treats and disposes of unwanted wastewater and solids from a buildings plumbing system.The septic system should be inspected once a year, including as soon as the house is put on the market for sale. It is in the interest of a prospective buyer to insist that the septic system be inspected before they purchase the home

Inspection & Writing Assignment:

this chimney has cracks on the cap which is allowing the rain to possible infiltrate down inside the chimney. the cap is Stainless steel and in good conditions, the mortar is deteriorating i have recommended have a listened chimney contractor re point.

Research & Writing Assignment:

when doing an electrical inspection you must have all the appropriate tools a meter, a GFCI tester gloves safety glasses.you should always inspect the service the meter box the service coming into the house check the conditions of the wiring make sure there are loops for water prevention.

Inspection & Writing Assignment:

This property located in Christmas, Florida has a new system installed. With a poly tank, and 500 square feet of drain field. Installation has been good. Craft has used acceptable construction practices. Drainfield is supposed to completed by next week. No clear indication of an improper installation of the system has been observed.

Research & Writing Assignment:

I picked FHA Home Basics written by Nick Gromicko. It is quite interesting to know all the benefits provided to many individuals who are looking to purchase a property but dont have enough funds to complete the downpayment. With FHA basically everybody can own a property.

Inspection & Writing Assignment:

Attached is a photo of a cement septic tank. This is the most commonly found tank in my area. Cement tank’s traditionally have the longest “shelf life” and typically do not experience failure as long as they are not installed near trees with heavy rooting. The typical sized tank found is either 1,000 or 1,500 gallons.

Research & Writing Assignment:

The image I choose from the Inspection Image Gallery was Conventional Absorption Field. This image shows a sketch of a traditional absorption field illustrating the flow of the wastewater into the the tank, and then the clear water flowing into the leech field for absorption into the earth.

Research & Writing Assignment:

Poor deck location can hinder many aspects of a septic inspection. To begin poor deck placement will hinder routine maintenance and pumping potentially causing more issues. Poor deck placement may cause some parts of the system to be inaccessible. This could increase cost of an inspection as well as potential to a system.

Inspection & Writing Assignment:

Located approx. 1000 gallon tank and the exit baffle lid was removed. Concrete exit baffle was in place and appeared to be in good condition. The water level was noted to be at the proper operation height. The tank did not need to be pumped. The camera was run from the tank into the distribution box. A test hole was dug in the septic field and a load test was performed. The tank and field appeared to be in good operating condition at the time of the inspection.

Inspection & Writing Assignment:

The chimney brick veneer covering was not sealed off on the corners. This can allow for water penetration to the structure and water damage if not corrected. It is recommended that the chimney brick veneer sheeting be evaluated and sealed off as needed to prevent water penetration and possible water damage and detachment of the brick veneer sheeting.

Research & Writing Assignment:

When I do my garage inspection I start with the flooring looking for cracks and settlement areas. I look for damage or cracking to the walls and any visible structural defects as I move on to the ceiling. Again looking for any damage, cracking as well as any structural movement. I then look over the garage door opener and all mounting brackets of the motor and track system. Then I move on to operating the component and checking the resistance and photo eye sensors for auto reverse for personal safety.

Inspection & Writing Assignment:

After going into the house and checking to see how many bedrooms there were and bathrooms and what type of clothes washer were in the home (some use very little water) I checked for a food disposal and talked to the home owner to see how many people lived in the house. I went out side to start my inspection of the septic system (where is it) I found a clean out the only visible sign of a septic system.

Research & Writing Assignment:

Inspecting a septic system can be difficult. The important thing to check is the inlet and outlet baffells and the inside of the tanks. Checking for deterioration of the tanks waste line in tank (scum and sludge) depth. And checking with your local authority to see if records exist on the septic system your inspecting. Age and maintain will give you a bearing on the condition of the system.

Inspection & Writing Assignment:

This is a cross section of a old cast iron main drain line pipe. Typical to see in homes of 50+ years old in my area. As you can tell, the sludge has built up along with rust or flaking of the inner wall. When this pipe is in conjunction with a septic system, potential defects are much greater. Not only does the pipe begin to restrict flow, but becomes brittle over time and is susceptible to cracks or damage from tree roots, etc.

Research & Writing Assignment:

I chose to view the “deck location” photo in the Septic photo album. It depicts a diagram of a deck improperly located over a septic tank. If this is confirmed during an actual inspection, it would be recommended to have the septic system further reviewed.