June 2006

Replacement of a septic system can cost $12,000 or more. If a malfunctioning system is detected it is usually required that it be replaced immediately since it is a health hazard that can potentially contaminate nearby wells and is a violation of the Maine Subsurface Wastewater Disposal Rules. A home with a failing septic system could lead to conflict between the homeowner, the realtor, and the seller, and could affect the homeowner's ability to meet other financial obligations. We encourage home sellers to have their septic system tested prior to listing a property.

This newsletter is to address common questions regarding a property's septic system and advise home buyers on what they need to know, and what they need to do, when buying a home with a private septic system .

Please contact us with any questions.

We welcome your feedback,

Jeffrey S. Leighton, President
Inspect-It 1st 
Email: jleight3@maine.rr.com

The purpose of a septic system is to retain solid waste in a holding tank and to dispose of effluent waste water into the ground without contaminating the environment. To help protect against the unexpected replacement or repair of a septic system, the Departments of Human Services and Environmental Protection recommend that a system be inspected prior to any sale of the property. If properly maintained, a new system can last 25 years or longer, but without an inspection it is impossible to know the condition of the system.

An inspection of a septic system involves a record search to determine age, design and location of the system. System records are usually found at the municipal office or at the Department of Human Services Division of Health Engineering office in Augusta. EPA recommends homeowners locate the septic tank and leachfield on their property and keep a drawing of these locations for their records.

An inspector will examine the internal plumbing of the home to ensure that all plumbing is properly connected to the system. An inspector will also locate and inspect the septic tank and the leachfield to determine if they are functioning properly. Minor excavation is required to locate and open the tank cover for an inspection of the septic tank to insure that the tank is operating as designed. Although not required, minor excavation of an area of the leachfield may also be conducted to examine liquid levels in the field to determine the potential of system malfunction in the future.

To keep septic systems functioning properly:

• Pump septic tank as needed ( generally every 3- 5 years).
• Don't dispose of household hazardous waste in sinks or toilets.
• Keep household items such as dental floss, feminine hygiene products, diapers and cat litter out of the septic system.
• Use water efficiently.
• Plant only grass over and near your septic system. Roots from nearby trees and shrubs might clog or damage the system.
• Keep vehicles and livestock off of the system as the weight can damage pipes and tank and compacted soil may cause the system to not drain properly.
• Keep gutters and basement sump pumps from draining into or near septic system.
• Garbage grinders are not recommended (if used, it is advised the tank be pumped every year).
• Keep kitchen grease, bacon fat and fry oil out of septic system; these are not easily dissolved and can clog drain fields.
• Use liquid laundry detergent, as powders can use clay as carrier, which can increase buildup of solids in tank and potentially clog disposal area.
• Minimize or avoid household cleaners such as bleach or acid automatic toilet bowl cleaners. The continuos slow release of chemicals into the system can kill micro-organisms which treat waster water.

For more information about Maine Subsurface Wastewater Disposal Rules please visit: http://www.maine.gov/dhhs/eng/plumb/index.html.

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Roundstone Communications