Able Home Inspections is proud to provide Septic Testing and Septic Inspection services in the Naples, Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Marco Island Florida areas. 

Septic testing services start at $75.00.

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There are two popular methods to inspect / test septic systems in Florida.  Both will be explained in more detail below.  The first method is very reliable test and is generally performed by home inspectors.  The cost of this functional test ranges from $75 to $195 depending on the area.  The second method is an inspection by a licensed septic contractor.  This method is considerably more expensive ($350 to $500) and involves puming the tank to allow a visual inspection of the tank.

The first method is a functional test of the septic system and leach field by "hydraulic loading".  This is the most common method and is usually performed by Home Inspectors.  With this method we "load up" the system and usually add a dye to the drain water.  The leach field is then observed for performance by visual, probing and sometimes digging methods.  At the conclusion of the test a report is issued describing how the system performed during the test.

This method is very reliable and cost effective, however it does not inspect or pump the tank.  The second method is similar, but requires pumping the tank for inspection.

The second method is an inspection of the system using a licensed septic contractor.  Only licensed septic contractors can utilize this inspection method.  It costs considerably more, and involves pumping the tank to visually inspect it.  While the tank is being pumped out, the septic inspector is looking for visual signs of failure.  The main advantage of this method is the pumping of the tank which allows a visual inspection of the tank.  Able Home Inspections provides this service through a sub contractor only.

Summary:  The first method involves a functional test of the septic system to determine if it is functioning as intended.  It is reliable, cost effective and generally performed by home inspectors.

Second method is an inspection performed by septic contractors and involves pumping the tank to allow for visual inspection of the tank.  While pumping is in progress other visual clues are looked for.  This method offers some advantages, but costs considerably more.  This method is available only through a sub contractor since it requires a licensed septic contractor.

IMPORTANT NOTE:  While both of the most common methods explained here are reliable, neither is perfect and neither guarantees a trouble free system.  A number of factors can conceal latent defects.  Remember that the entire system is underground.  Any test or inspection is limited by this fact.  The bottom line is these inspections and tests are reliable, but are far from perfect.  It is also very important to remember that septic tanks should be pumped every 3 to 5 years depending on usage as part of normal maintenance.

If you need a septic inspection or a septic test as part of a purchase or refinance, please feel free to call us.

Able Inspection Service provides Septic Testing, Septic Certification, Septic Inspection Services in Naples, Fort Myers, Marco Island and Cape Coral Florida areas.