Should I Buy a Home with a Septic System?

It can make you feel a bit anxious to locate the home of your dreams and then find out it has a septic system instead of municipal sewer service, especially if you are not familiar with how they work. It is true that there are both advantages and challenges involved, but the majority of homeowners who have a septic system find the transition to be relatively easy. Here are some tips to help you make the decision about buying a home with a septic system and what changes you can expect if you do proceed.

• Inspection- A standard home inspection does not do a thorough job of inspecting the septic system, so you should call an experienced septic professional during your due diligence period to be certain the system is in good working order before any headaches become your responsibility.
• Cost Savings- Most homeowners appreciate not having to pay a monthly municipal sewer fee. This savings can add up over the years. It is also nice to have full control, so you do not experience backups due to mistakes and problems with a sewer system that hasn’t been properly maintained.
• Long Lasting- You can expect to get several decades of service from a properly installed and maintained septic system, but if you plan to live on the property for a lifetime, it behooves you to start a saving plan to cover a replacement system down the road and learn all you can about extending its life as long as possible.
• Water Conservation- Too much water passing through the system can put a burden on the septic system, so it is wise to conserve water as much as possible. A few minor changes are all it takes to handle this, such as spreading laundry out through the week instead of doing it all in one day.
• Educate Yourself- You will need to learn what you can and cannot flush or put down the drains to avoid problems and maintain a healthy septic system. Only biodegradable items should be introduced to the septic system.

If you have more questions about septic systems in the Lakeland, Florida area and would like advice from a professional, give us a call at Southeastern Septic LLC. We will be happy to discuss the advantages and challenges, as well as provide the education you need so you can have a long and beneficial experience at your new home.