Septic inspections
Know what you're buying, or catch a small problem before it becomes a drain field replacement.
A septic inspection is a professional look at the tank, baffles, filter, pumps, controls and drain field to see whether the system is working and what it needs. In Deschutes County, inspections are common before a home sale, as part of routine maintenance, and when something seems wrong.
Is a septic inspection required when selling a home in Oregon?
Oregon DEQ recommends, but doesn't require, a professional septic evaluation when a property with septic is bought or sold. If an evaluation is done, the evaluator must use DEQ's approved form. Many buyers and lenders ask for one anyway, and it's the best way to avoid surprises on a system you can't see.
How often should a system be inspected?
The EPA recommends a professional inspection at least every 3 years, and every year for systems with pumps, floats, filters or other mechanical parts. In Deschutes County, ATT systems, and sand filter and pressure distribution systems permitted since early 2014, must be inspected at least once a year by a DEQ-certified maintenance provider.
What does an inspection cover?
- Locating the tank and drain field
- Measuring sludge and scum levels
- Checking baffles, the effluent filter and the tank for cracks or leaks
- Testing pumps, floats and alarms
- Looking for signs of drain field failure
- Reviewing permit records, if available
What should buyers in the south county know?
In southern Deschutes County, new homes, major repairs and major alterations require advanced nitrogen-reducing systems. If the inspection turns up a failing drain field on a south county property, the repair may cost more than a conventional fix. Ask the inspector to note the system type and condition clearly.
What affects the cost of an inspection?
- System type. ATTs and sand filters have more components to check.
- Pumping. Some inspections include pumping so the tank can be fully examined.
- Access. Finding and uncovering buried lids.
- Reporting. Sale evaluations on DEQ's form.
Prices come from the septic company after they've seen the system. We don't quote prices ourselves, and a phone estimate is only a starting point.
Where we connect you with help
Common questions
Do I need a septic inspection to sell my house in Bend?
Oregon doesn't require one, but DEQ recommends it, and if an evaluation is done it must use DEQ's form. Many buyers and lenders ask for one.
How long does a septic inspection take?
It depends on the system and whether the tank is pumped. Simple systems may take an hour or two; ATTs and sand filters take longer.
Related services
More background: Deschutes County septic guide.
Septic backing up or alarm going off?
Call now instead of sending a form. Backups are a same-day problem.