You're out scouting homes and you see that some of them are listed as being on a septic system.  You've heard of that in the past and may have had some friends with one once, but you may not really know much about them or really how they work.  Well, let's run over a few of the basics so you'll have a little more knowledge about them going into your search.

Now, my disclaimer is that septic systems and the codes relating to them may vary with area, so always research your area for specifics.  Also, if you're considering an older home with a septic system, it's my recommendation to have that inspected.  Okay, on to the basics.

Here's a lightning round of a summary on septic:

  • Waste travels from the home to a tank buried underground somewhere on your lot
  • After the bacteria do their job at breaking everything down, the waste waster travels from the tank to a set of parallel lines buried elsewhere on your lot
  • The water then exits the pipes into the dirt and the dirt absorbs the water
  • Periodically, the tank requires pumping for anything that has accumulated.  This time varies with tank size, family size, and the use of a disposal.  Opinions vary on how often it should be done, but every few years is common.

Other septic info:

  • The term "Perc" is often found on land and lot listings, but also carries with existing homes.  This is a measurement that specifies the absorption ability of the soil and how that relates to the number of bedrooms a home built on the property may have.
  • Can you build a home with more bedrooms than the stated "Perc"?  Possibly.  This will require a new review of the land and possible exploration of additional areas to accommodate the increased capacity.  This will be on a per-case basis.  Exceeding the perc limit is not permitted without a reassessment and soil study.
  • "Perc" is based on bedrooms - not bathrooms.  People determine the output from a home, not bathrooms, so the number of bedrooms is used to estimate the number of people who will most likely live in the home. 
  • Septic is normally found in areas that are outside the denser and more populated areas of the city.  Once the area grows outward, the city or county may eventually offer (occasionally require) that a home hook up to the sewer system.
  • In our area, lots are required to have an A septic field and a B septic field that serves as a back-up in case A fails.  You cannot build or dig in the B field as it needs to remain in usable condition in the event it's required for septic.
  • In some cases where a the land is sloped and the septic field is higher than the home, waster water may need to be pumped to the septic field.
  • Do all lots perc?  No, some lots may be full of rock or clay soil that will not absorb water efficiently.  In this case, one can attempt to get an easement for a septic field, or the lot may remain unqualified for construction using a septic system.  Alternative processing systems may need to be explored.

Well, there you go - a few basics on septic systems.  If you are unsure about a system as you consider homes, be sure to check with an inspector.  If I may assist you with any of your home selling/buying needs, please don't hesitate to contact me with any question - big or small.