Below are suggestions to make the resale septic inspection process quick, easy and informative.

Verify Lender Requirements  
Don't wait till closing day to find out!   Does the lender require a septic inspection?  More times than not VA and FHA lenders require an In-Tank inspection with Pumping.  Is the lender going to require repairs to close? 
 

Septic Inspection

Order early in the option period.  A septic system is one of the more costly items in a house.  We recommend you do the septic inspection prior to the property inspection.  Check out our "HomeBuyer Services" tab above to determine options that best fit your client's needs. 
 

We recommend the most thorough inspection..."In-tank Inspection with Pumping"

                                               Associated Costs with an inspection:   

                                              1.  Cost of the Inspector
                                              2.  Cost to remove the dirt off lids of the septic tank(s)
                                              3.  Cost of pumping the tank(s) to look for structural integrity
 

Contract Verbiage

State clearly in "Special Provisions" of the sales contract the type of inspection you are negotiating, who is paying for the inspection, the uncovering and the pumping.   Suggested contract verbiage:    

"Seller to provide Buyer an In-Tank Septic Inspection with pumping during option period."  
OR
"Seller will reimburse Buyer the cost incurred at the time of the septic inspection for uncovering and pumping of the septic tank(s) on the property.  Cost not to exceed  $_____."

Disclosures   Gather available disclosures
TAR Form 1407 ...."Information About On-Site Sewer Facility"   Available www.texasrealtors.com
System Records     Go to "General Guidelines/Order Form" tab above to order septic records
Aerobic Maintenance Contract  (where applicable)  Homeowner provides
 
System Records  
Where is the septic on the property?  What kind is it?  Is there room for the pool or an extra garage?  If additions have been made to the premises you may wish to confirm with the governing authority that the septic system is properly permitted for those additions.   Click on "General Guidelines/Order Form" tab above to request records.  

Educate Your Client
Refer your clients to our website...rainbowseptic.com  Let us provide the overview and options.   We recommend that your client come to the septic inspection so we can educate them on their septic system. And don't hesitate to refer your client's questions to us.

Educate Yourself  
Want to get yourself up to speed on septic systems, the inspection process and disclosure & permitting issues?   Join Rainbow Septic Training Services for  a 3-hour MCE course title "Understanding Septic System Regulations & Disclosure".     We also provide 30 minute to 1 hour presentations in real estate offices.   AND call us any time with your questions at 512.380.9024.

Helpful Hints 
Answers to the most frequently asked questions and then some!  Print "Helpful Hints" and put it in your listing package and give "Helpful Hints"  to your clients.    See Helpful Hints.