The real estate market is still exploding in Arizona and there has never been a better time to sell your home. If you are on septic, there is one extra step you need to take for your home sale! That step is booking your ADEQ septic inspection. We recommend booking as soon as you list the home for sale. Why? Often times, a system appears to be working fine but that’s not always the case. It may have serious issues that have not been detected yet. These issues won’t be found until the system is properly exposed and examined by a licensed and certified ADEQ Inspector.
Don’t worry, these inspections are valid for up to six months from the date of service. In Arizona, it is a requirement to complete a septic inspection before selling your home. This provides the buyer with peace of mind. It also prevents potential issues that could jeopardize your home sale. Furthermore, it ensures your home sale doesn’t fall through due to a failing septic system. Most importantly, it addresses any need for repair or replacement before the sale.
Potential Reasons for a Not Functional ADEQ Report of Inspection
Root Invasion: Root invasion is a common issue that can cause a septic system to fail an ADEQ inspection. Since septic tanks are underground and filled with water and sewage, roots can go undetected for long periods. Their presence indicates that the tank may no longer be watertight or that the disposal field is compromised. If repairable, we can remove the roots and seal the entry point, often caused by faulty lids or unconnected sewer lines. While roots are great for trees, they can be detrimental to your septic system. In Arizona, roots can travel far in search of water. It’s wise to avoid planting trees, shrubs, or bushes near your septic system.
Corroded Septic Tank: Corrosion of the septic tank is something that we often see in older systems. Corrosion is the result of age and/or poor maintenance of the septic system. There is an incredible post through Pumper.com that details what it means to determine the structural integrity of the septic tank during ADEQ Septic Inspections. A great rule we follow during our inspections is that if the concrete shows signs of corrosion and flaking, we provide photos and information about where and the extent of the issue. Severe corrosion will result in the requirement of replacing the septic tank. For a plastic tank, if the lid or access hole is misshapen it is an indicator that the tank has been structurally deformed.
Driveway Placed Over The Septic System: Another issue we find is some people are parking and driving over their septic tank and/or disposal field. If you have a driveway on or near your septic tank or disposal field don’t drive or park over it. This willl cause damage to your system as it starts to weaken the structural integrity of the septic tank and will cause settling, cracks in the tank, bows in the sewer lines, and cave-in of disposal fields. The setback standard for all septic tanks from driveways is a minimum of 5 feet. (see all setback requirements for Maricopa County here).
Excessive Solid Buildup: Excessive solid buildup is a major issue for septic systems. Always remember the three P’s: pee, poo, and (toilet) paper. Avoid “flushable” wipes—they’re not truly flushable and can cause significant problems for both septic and sewer systems. These wipes do not biodegrade and are a leading cause of septic system issues. There’s no such thing as septic-safe flushable wipes. Additives can disrupt the beneficial bacteria your septic system needs and don’t work as promised. Save your money and avoid them. Regular pumping and maintenance are crucial for a healthy system. If you use a garbage disposal, be aware that adding solids will increase scum and sludge buildup in your tank.
When you make Priority Pumping your go-to septic company, you can trust that we will thoroughly check your septic system during each maintenance pumping service, recommended every 2-3 years. Our entire team, yep, even our office staff, are certified ADEQ Septic Inspectors and we guarantee a thorough inspection of every system, complete with photos. We don’t inspect the easy way, we ALWAYS do it the Right way!
