Septic Inspections: High Quality Procedure

In Maine, except for transactions within the shoreland zone, professionals are authorized to offer services based on their individual standards. The following outlines what I consider necessary to conduct a high-quality septic inspection:

 

• System Records. Find any HHE-200 design/permits or issued variances. Incomplete or missing forms may complicate the process.

• Locating System Components. Use records, probing and professional expertise for location, deploying buried electrical location equipment, pipe cameras, and sondes to exact locations when hazards are present.
• Inspection Covers & Pump Station. If less than 24” deep these should be opened. If over 24", further process might be needed.
• Pipe Checks. Check tank inlet and outlet pipes levels, and the liquid level in the tank.
• Baffle Investigation. Baffles should be inspected, if altered, measures for proper length should be taken.
• Tank Condition. Note any significat tank cracking or decay.
• Pipe Camera Usage. It will help to investigate pipe condition between the house, tank, drain field and pump station.
• Multiple Tank Inspection.  Inspect additional septic tanks reccommend contact with proprietary service professionals if found.
• Pump Station Examination. Ensure that station access point is waterproof and the alarm system checks out. 
• Distribution Box Conditions. Make sure it is functional and intact. If issues are found, further investigation is recommended.
• Field Verification. Confirm drain field location/function via records, probing and observation pits.
• Deficiency Categorization. Divide problems into two: those that won't cause trouble, and those that need immediate action.
• Failure Observation.  Systems showing symptoms of "malfunction" or "failure" are likely to be replaced or updated.
• Report Results. Without fail, a detailed inspection report with pictures and descriptions should be provided. If the report is found lacking, I recommend further analysis by a specialist.

 

Additional Details:

• 2023+ Maine "Certified Inspection” by a qualified contractor will require additional site work, as well as additional records/forms.
• As of the writing of this the form for the Maine Certified Inspection has not been produced, so the full extent of the inspection requirements are currently unknown.

 

For inquiries about septic inspection services, feel free to contact FixME LLC through the provided link below.