Can I sell my home with a failed septic tank system?

How to sell a failed septic tank system

First: Get your septic tank system inspected by a certified inspector (a private contractor, someone in the health department, or a wastewater professional). The average cost of professional inspections ranges from $550 to $900.

The National Association of Certified Housing Inspectors recommends annual inspections, but this is especially important when you consider putting your home on the market. In fact, if you make an offer at home, it may be mandatory before closing. For example, some mortgage companies need to perform septic tank inspections. Other times, state or local governments require them. Iowa is a state that requires septic testing for contract transfers.

Your choice depends on what the inspection reveals. Many common problems are solveable.

Option 1: Repair the septic tank system

Many common problems can be easily fixed (fairly) Typical problems include:

You’ve ignored the maintenance system

According to the EPA, homeowners should hire professionals to inspect their septic tank system every three years and pump it once every three to five years (or as needed).

How to fix it:
If you haven’t pumped it out for a long time and there is a problem, hire a professional to pump water and thoroughly clean the septic tank system to reverse the failure. The cost of cleaning the system varies according to tank size, but usually costs between $200 and $1,240.

If deep cleaning doesn’t solve the problem, you may need to change the baffle – a component that prevents scum from accumulating in the tank. This could cost between $250 and $900. However, if the system is severely ignored or overused, it may not work.

Excessive water rinses through your septic tank system at once

The size of the septic tank system is based on the number of bedrooms the house has: For example, a four-bedroom home requires a 1200-gallon water tank. If your water usage exceeds the capacity of the system, the system will not be able to handle it. This can cause wastewater to be backed up to your pipes, drains, the house itself or the surrounding ground.

How to fix it:
As mentioned above, pump and clean the system. However, if the septic system is too small for your home, you may have to consider a complete replacement (more below) to increase its capacity.

Tree roots or other outdoor beautification damages the system

The roots seeking moisture and nutrients can be damaged by encroaching on the septic tank system as they grow. Heavy duty paving materials for drainage grounds or other elements of the system can compact the soil to prevent proper discharge or damage to the pipeline. That’s why you shouldn’t pave the way, drive or park on the septic tank system components.

The removal of the root cause may be between $500 and $1,500. If the roots damage the tank to the point where repairs are required, the cost may be escalated.

How to fix it:
Depending on the damaged components, repairs can be made. Septic tank repairs are usually priced at around $600 to $5,000. Leach Field (Drainfield) repairs can range from $2,000 to $20,000.

Your septic tank was never installed correctly

If the septic tank is not installed properly, it will fail at some point. If a drainage end is installed in an over-tilted place, there is a high groundwater level, or the soil is impermeable, it may lead to hydraulic failure or even water source contamination.

If the septic tank is incorrectly sized, not watertight, not level or incorrect depth, it can lead to runoff problems.

How to fix it:
If the septic tank is still in good condition, you may be able to replace the drain end by digging out the septic tank and placing it in a new, uncontaminated area on your property. Depending on your system size and its location, this can cost between $5,000 and $12,000.

In terms of price and required working range, repairs are usually preferable than replacement. Installing a brand new system can cost between $3,600 and $12,500, while repairs are usually around $3,035 unless you need a new leaching site.

However, sometimes, no repair will solve the problem and the alternative is the only option.

Option 2: Replace the septic tank system

Because of the high cost of replacing the septic tank and drainage, and the process is highly invasive, it is often a last resort for homeowners. Make sure it is necessary before replacing the entire system.