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In Washington State, any residential property being sold that utilizes an on-site septic system must undergo a professional inspection of the entire wastewater treatment system prior to property transfer. This mandatory septic system assessment, also known as a property sale inspection, is conducted to analyze and document the current functionality of all system components before the sale is finalized.

As a qualified septic inspection company licensed in Washington, Bumblebee Services provides property owners with comprehensive property sale inspections that evaluate all aspects of their septic system.

  • Extensive Experience – With decades of experience, our seasoned technicians accurately assess your entire septic system, from its individual components to its functionality.

  • Precise Inspections – Our inspectors use the most advanced cameras, measurement tools and data sensors to thoroughly analyze all aspects of your septic system.

  • Detailed Reporting – Upon completion of the inspection, your inspector will provide you with a detailed report of their findings including any recommended repairs.

Our highly thorough property sale inspection is performed by experienced technicians using advanced diagnostic tools and testing procedures.

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Our Detailed Inspection Process.

A property sale inspection is a mandatory step in the home sale process for properties with on-site septic systems. During our property sale inspection:

  • We review all available permit records, as-built drawings, and previous inspection reports to understand the septic system’s design and history.
  • We locate, excavate, and uncover the septic tank, drain field, distribution box, and all connecting pipes and components. Access may require moving fences or landscaping.
  • The tank is opened, and contents examined. Sludge and scum levels are measured to determine if pumping is needed. Tank integrity is checked for cracks or defects.
  • All pumps, alarms, filters, aerators, electrical panels, and control systems are thoroughly inspected for proper operation and signs of wear, corrosion, or failure.
  • Drain field piping is camera verified and pressure tested to check for leaks, obstructions, or failure. Soil tests evaluate absorption and filtration performance.
  • The entire system flow, from inlet to outlet, is evaluated under test conditions. All aspects of the treatment process are analyzed.
  • A detailed inspection report is prepared documenting the condition of each system component. Recommendations for any repairs are provided.

Frequently Asked Questions.

A septic system inspection is crucial to ensure the system is in good working order, meets local regulations, and to provide buyers with information about the property’s wastewater treatment.

The duration can vary, but a standard inspection may take a few hours, depending on the complexity and size of the septic system as well as the required excavation.

Signs of concern could include odors, slow drainage, gurgling sounds in plumbing, or standing water near the septic system components.

A property sale inspection can be waived under certain conditions:

  1. In certain counties, if an Operation/Performance Monitoring Report has been conducted by a licensed on-site system maintainer within the last 6 months, with reports filed regularly with Public Health.
  2. For new construction properties that have never been occupied, provided there is proof of vacancy. County approval must also be obtained and signed off.
  3. In the case of a permitted on-site sewage system where the first inspection is not yet due, with a 45-day allowance for proprietary systems and a 6-month allowance for gravity and public domain technology systems. Subject to the terms of septic system maintenance agreement and local health department guidelines.
  4. If the on-site sewage system has been abandoned due to the residence connecting to public sewer or the land converting to public use. System must show proper decommissioning paperwork, and have been filed with the local health department.

These inspections are not a pass/fail type inspection, rather they are reporting the condition and compliance of the system. In the event that the technician identifies damage or other issues during the inspection, they will promptly communicate these findings to the property owner. It is imperative to attend to these issues and undertake any essential repairs before moving forward with the sale of the home.

The responsibility for the inspection cost typically falls on the seller, but arranging the inspection before selling can be beneficial. This proactive approach allows you to identify and address potential issues early, either before listing your home or by including it as part of the purchase agreement. By doing so, you can avoid unexpected and costly repairs that may arise during the transaction, streamlining the home-selling process.