Your septic system may be out of sight, but it should never be out of mind—especially if you are selling a property, buying a home, or are staying on top of your existing septic maintenance schedule. A professional or PSMA (Pennsylvania Septage Management Association) Certified septic inspection is the best way to ensure everything is working as it should.
Del Val Septic, Sewer & Storm provides comprehensive septic system inspection service in Springfield, PA, and surrounding communities in the Delaware Valley. Whether you are preparing for a real estate deal, suspect an issue, or just want peace of mind, our experienced team is here to handle the dirty work thoroughly, safely, and with a smile.
Why Septic Inspections Matter
Your septic system manages all the wastewater from your home every single day, making it a vital aspect of your home; without it functioning smoothly, chaos can reign. Routine septic inspections are crucial because septic systems are underground, out of sight and out of mind, and they need to work for your home 24/7/365.
A septic inspection is an essential part of responsible homeownership that helps to identify areas of concern before they grow into major, costly repairs, backups, or septic failures down the line. Depending on your municipality, septic system inspections may be required in real estate transactions or, at a minimum, strongly encouraged before signing a purchase agreement.
When you schedule a septic inspection with Del Val Septic, Sewer & Storm, you’re not just getting a quick look inside your septic tank; you are getting a detailed, professional assessment from experienced technicians who know what to look for.
How Often Should You Have a Septic Inspection?
No one knows if anything is wrong without an inspection or obvious signs of a complete malfunction because you can't see what's going on underground. An inspection helps identify what and where a septic system is having an issue.
Even if everything seems fine, it is smart to schedule a professional septic inspection every 3 years. Regular inspections help identify septic repair issues like cracks, leaks, or sludge buildup before they lead to costly emergencies.
If you have a larger household, use more water than average, or have an aging system, you may benefit more from an annual septic inspection.
I Just Had an Inspection. Can’t You Quote My Repair on That?
We hear this a lot—and we understand why it seems like it should be enough. However, not all inspection reports provide the level of detail needed to accurately quote a repair.
At Del Val Septic, Sewer & Storm, we inspect and repair septic systems and document any noncompliance with PSMA (Pennsylvania Septage Management Association) standards with clear evidence. This allows us to confidently recommend and price the right solution—not just a general estimate.
Here’s why an outside inspection report isn’t always enough:
- Different Standards and Depth of Reporting: Not all inspectors evaluate systems the same way we do. Some reports don’t include the technical details, measurements, or system diagnostics required for repair pricing.
- Missing Critical Information: Key components (like tank condition, distribution boxes, or drainfield performance) may not be fully assessed or documented.
- “Unsatisfactory” Doesn’t Always Mean Replacement: Many systems are flagged as unsatisfactory for reasons that can often be repaired—not replaced. Without our own inspection, we can’t determine the most cost-effective solution.
- Liability and Accuracy: We stand behind our work. To provide an accurate quote—and avoid surprises—we need to verify conditions firsthand.
Our Septic Inspection Process
Del Val Septic, Sewer & Storm takes a thorough, step-by-step approach to every inspection, ensuring no detail gets overlooked. Here is what you can expect from our team:
- System History Review: We start by gathering background information: when the system was installed, when it was last pumped, if you’ve had it inspected before, and whether any repairs have been done. This gives us a clearer picture of your septic system’s age and expected performance.
- Septic Tank Location and Access: We locate the septic tank and uncover access points for a full visual and physical inspection. If your septic tank lids are buried, don’t worry; we can expose them safely and recover them when we’re done.
- Septic Tank Inspection: Regardless of when your last inspection was, we always start fresh to ensure findings are accurate. We measure sludge and scum levels, check baffles and tees, inspect the filter, and look for cracks or leaks. This helps determine whether your tank needs pumping or repair.
- Drain Field Evaluation: The drain field is where wastewater is filtered back into the soil. We check for proper drainage, pooling water, strong odors, or overly green grass (all signs of potential failure).
- Hydraulic Load Testing: Required if a home is vacant longer than 7 days before an inspection, if occupancy will increase, or if something is found during the inspection process. We need to determine whether the system can receive and drain water in accordance with local authority rules and regulations, based on the number of bedrooms and occupants.
- Comprehensive Report: After the septic inspection is complete, you will receive a detailed report outlining our findings with video and photographic evidence. We’ll explain the results in plain language (no confusing technical terms) and provide honest recommendations for any maintenance or repairs that might be needed.
Who Needs a Septic Inspection?
Everyone with a septic system can benefit from a professional septic inspection, but it is especially important if you’re:
- Buying a Home: Never close on a property without knowing the true condition of the septic system.
- Selling Your Home: A clean inspection report can make your home more attractive to prospective buyers.
- Experiencing Slow Drains or Odors: These can signal hidden septic issues, and an inspection can help uncover the cause.
- Due for Maintenance: Routine inspections every 3 years help prevent major repairs and pumping emergencies.
- Replacing or Upgrading Your System: Inspections are required before designing a new system layout or permitting is issued for a septic installation.
Whether it is routine maintenance or part of a property transaction, Del Val Septic, Sewer & Storm has you covered.
Real Estate Septic Inspections
If you are in the process of buying or selling a home, a real estate septic inspection is a must. Lenders and local health departments often require documentation proving that the system is in working order.
Our inspectors provide thorough evaluations and same-day reporting for your convenience. We work directly with real estate agents, buyers, and sellers to ensure everything is completed without delays.
Septic Inspection FAQs
How long does a septic inspection take?
Most septic inspections take 2 hours, depending on the system size, accessibility, and site conditions.
Do I need to be present for the septic inspection?
It is not required for the homeowner to be present during most septic inspections, but many choose to be there so they can learn more about their system. For inspections that will include a flow test, homeowners will need to be present so we can access the pipes and faucets indoors.
What is the difference between septic pumping and an inspection?
Inspections check your entire septic system underground, from the foundation sewer line to the drain field. Pumping removes the accumulation of sediment and debris in your septic tank, which is a septic tank's only job: to stop whatever is not water from entering and clogging your drain component. That's why pumping is vital to your septic system and always needs to be done.
What happens if you find a problem during the inspection?
If we uncover any septic repair needs, we will provide you with a clear explanation of our findings alongside recommendations for fixing the issues. We can also perform the necessary septic system repairs in-house, often the same or next day!
Should I do anything to prepare for my septic inspection?
Before your septic inspection appointment, make sure we can access your septic tank lids and drain field area by clearing away any yard debris or outdoor furniture. We also recommend avoiding excessive water use on the day of your appointment and having a general septic system history on hand (age, last pumping date, etc.).
Ready to Book Your Septic Inspection?
Don’t wait until you have a backup and need emergency septic pumping to find out your septic system needs attention. A septic inspection gives you peace of mind and helps you schedule the maintenance needed to keep your system performing effectively for years to come.
Contact Del Val Septic, Sewer & Storm today to schedule your septic inspection in Springfield, PA, or nearby community—call Del Val Septic, Sewer & Storm at (610) 947-4800 or request service online. Whether you need a real estate septic inspection or just a routine checkup, we have you covered so you can rest easy knowing your septic system is functioning as well as you think it is.