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How much is a septic inspection in NJ
In New Jersey (NJ), like elsewhere in the country, homes either use a well and a septic system for their water supply or have sewer and city water. If you are moving into a new home, it is absolutely necessary that you know which one of these it has. That is because each requires a different type of maintenance. If you are buying a house with a septic system, it is important to have it inspected before signing the deal. A septic inspection can give you a detailed report about the health of the septic system. You wouldn’t want to pay the normal market rate for a home with a septic tank that is on its last legs or has serious problems.
So, how much is a septic inspection in NJ? On average, a septic inspection in New Jersey costs roughly $400 to $450. With that said, several factors impact the cost of inspection. Depending on the size and depth of the septic tank, underlying issues, and the size of the drain field, the cost may be greater. In contrast, a smaller-sized septic tank that is in top condition will be more affordable to get inspected.
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What Factors Impact the Cost of Inspection?
How much you will pay for a septic inspection depends on the following factors:
- The location of the septic system
- The size of the septic tank
- The depth in the yard
- Any other issues that require investigation
- The type of inspection
What are the Different types of Septic Inspections?
Generally speaking, there are three types of septic inspections:
- Annual Inspection – It includes a visual inspection and dye test for leaks. The annual inspection is the most cost-effective of the three septic inspections. However, if the septic tank in question has some underlying issues, you will have to go for a more comprehensive inspection.
- Basic Inspection – Usually a basic inspection is done when a house is changing hands. It is more thorough than an annual inspection but not as comprehensive as the full inspection. But if the basic inspection reveals some issues with the septic system, a full inspection might be needed to identify the problem and rectify it. A basic inspection includes a visual inspection, dye test for leaks, sludge and scum layer measuring, and simple system tests.
- Full inspection – This is the most complete septic inspection you can have. As such, it is more expensive than the other two. It includes everything that is involved in a basic inspection, as well as pumping and measuring tests, wastewater flow test, audit of tank size, water-body distance, excavation, and soil testing. In case there is an issue with the septic tank which the professional is unable to properly identify during the inspection, he or she may advise snaking a high-definition camera into the septic tank for an accurate and precise visual. Camera testing will bump up the cost slightly. A full inspection that includes camera testing may cost you around $900.
How much is a septic inspection in NJ?
If you are living in New Jersey, you can expect to pay around $400 to $450 for a septic inspection on average. But keep in mind there are several variables involved. If you have a very big septic tank, expect to pay more. The same is true if there are underlying issues with the tank in question. A full inspection involving camera testing is the most comprehensive septic inspection, but it is also the costliest. You will likely pay around $900 for it.
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When do I need a septic tank inspection?
You will likely need a septic tank inspection during a home transaction. In some areas, a septic inspection is required by law when a home is changing hands. But even if it is not mandatory, you should opt for it, especially if you are buying a new home.
A poorly-functioning septic tank is not only a pain in the neck, but it can also prove to be a health hazard. Also, major septic tank repairs are costly, which means your expenses will be greater than you bargained for. And if the septic tank requires a replacement soon after you move in, you would b e staring at a major expense, around $6,000-$7,000.
A home transaction is not the only time when you should get your septic tank inspected. Experts recommend that septic tank owners should have their tank inspected frequently, once every three years. If you can do it once a year, so much the better. An annual inspection will allow you to identify issues before they mushroom into major problems and as such is worth its cost.
You should also not hesitate to call your septic tank service provider the moment you experience an issue with the system. Some of the issues that should be thoroughly investigated without delay are:
- Your showers, toilets, or sinks are backing up
- You notice a foul odor coming from the drain field or the plumbing system
- You notice water pooling in the yard
- You notice spongy grass growing around the leach field and the tank cover
If you want to see the cost of septic tank inspection in every state, read this.
How much time does a septic tank inspection take?
In general, a septic inspection takes around 45 minutes to two hours. However, depending on the size of your tank and any underlying issues, the inspection may take longer than 2 hours. That said, it is unusual for a septic inspection to go on for more than 3 hours.
If you are a homeowner, you may want to observe the inspection. This way you might pick up tips on how to maintain your septic system properly, minimize the risk of a major issue, and prolong its life. With regular septic inspections, you can reasonably expect your septic tank to stay functional for 25-30 years, if not more.
Learn more about how long a septic tank inspection can take here.
