Hey everyone, I'm a new homeowner and I've run into some septic tank issues. We just bought a foreclosed bank property, and I was informed that we need to replace the septic system because the current one might be too small. They mentioned something about how the pipes are sloped uphill and that the system is clogged due to the distance from the house. The place has been vacant for two years, so I'm wondering if we could just blow it out for now. But should I be concerned about whether this two-bedroom, two-bathroom house needs a larger tank, or is it something I can figure out later?
3 Answers
Septic systems are definitely a big deal, and you shouldn't take them lightly. It's essential to get all the details straight before any regulatory bodies come knocking on your door. Make sure to understand what you have to do to live there without issues.
You might not even be able to live in the house until the septic system meets current standards. Sizing guidelines are pretty strict, and waiting to see isn't usually the way to go. For example, in my area, a 1,250-gallon tank is standard for a four-bedroom house, while a 1,000-gallon tank works for two to three bedrooms.
Just to clarify, the bank or town won't force previous owners to upgrade the septic unless there's an actual problem. It seems like there are a lot of missing details here that could change things.
Who exactly told you that you need a bigger system? Regulations can vary based on location, and sometimes you have to put in larger systems than what might seem necessary, just to meet code. For instance, when I replaced mine in 2014, they insisted on a four-bedroom system even though my house only has three. You might find that you're grandfathered in, but undersized systems could cause problems down the line, especially if you plan to sell. And the uphill piping issue sounds a bit different. Get the specifics figured out!
You definitely need to get an expert in to check things out. Make sure to get estimates from multiple companies and see if the land is suitable for a new leach line.