You’ve begun the home search process and you’ve found your dream home: the perfect layout, a beautiful backyard, and the ideal location. Then, the home inspector drops some news on you:
“The septic system has failed.”
Now what?
At Wholesale Septic Supply, we know this can be a major dilemma for any potential homebuyer. Septic system issues may feel intimidating, expensive, and downright mysterious, but these issues don’t always mean you should walk away from the deal.
Let’s explore how a failed septic system is certainly a red flag, but also how it can be a negotiation opportunity for you to leverage, and how to make a smart, informed decision as a buyer.
A failed septic system will mean the system is no longer effectively treating and dispersing wastewater. This could involve everything from:
Sewage backing up into the house
Pooling water or soggy ground over the drain field
Slow drains and persistent odors
Failed percolation (perc) tests
Septic tank or drain field collapse
Contamination of well water or nearby waterways
This is more than just a simple plumbing issue. A septic system failure may lead to health hazards and usually requires a major repair at the very least, or a full on replacement.
No, not always. While a failed septic system is certainly a serious issue, it’s also very much resolvable in many cases. In some cases, negotiating a replacement or repair can actually benefit you as a homebuyer.
If the home is significantly discounted (often priced $15,000–$30,000 below comparable homes in the neighborhood or region), and you’ve budgeted for repairs, it may still be a great deal for you to pursue further.
Wholesale Septic Supply Tip: Always retain the help of a professional installer to estimate costs, rather than just relying on the inspector’s report.
Some older properties may have inadequate amounts of space or soil quality for a full on replacement. If the lot is large enough, and the soil passes the perc test, installing a new septic system can be a very feasible option.
In some scenarios, the seller may agree to repair the system or offer a credit at closing so you can handle the repair or replacement process on your own after you take ownership of the property. Your real estate agent and septic contractor are your best sources to help you estimate timelines and costs.
If this is your dream home, and you envision yourself in it for a very long time, or forever, you should consider pursuing the deal, even if it requires some upfront planning.
If the property fails the perc test, or if there’s simply no room available for installation of a mound or alternative system, you may not be able to legally reside on the property.
If the seller is unwilling to share any reports, fix the underlying issues, or adjust the price of the home, you could be stuck with a major expense on your hands. It’s often best to walk away at that point to save yourself the burden of dealing with unresolved issues.
If the septic system has failed, and the home has:
Structural problems
Old plumbing or electrical issues
Mold or foundational issues
…it may end up being a money pit in disguise.
Costs vary based on location, soil type, system size, and design. Here's a general range:
|
System Type |
Estimated Cost |
|
Gravity-fed conventional |
$6,000 – $12,000 |
|
Pressure distribution |
$10,000 – $15,000 |
|
Mound system |
$15,000 – $30,000+ |
|
Aerobic treatment unit |
$10,000 – $20,000+ |
|
New tank only |
$2,500 – $5,000 |
Wholesale Septic Supply Tip: Save by purchasing septic components directly from us and work with an installer open to owner-supplied materials.
If you move forward with the home purchase, here’s what you should prepare for:
Professional inspection and soil analysis
Permits from the county or local health department
A replacement system design
A licensed contractor for installation
Tanks, lids, pumps, risers, distribution boxes, and drain field components (available through Wholesale Septic Supply!)
Wholesale Septic Supply carries many of these items at great prices, so you’re able to save from day one.
•“What exactly is wrong with the current system?”
•“Has a soil or perc test been performed recently?”
•“Will the seller repair or credit the cost?”
•“Can the home legally be occupied with the system as-is?”
•“What is the replacement timeline and permit process in this county?”
Can I live in the home with a failed septic system?
No, you cannot. In nearly every state, it’s illegal and unsafe to occupy a home with an actively failing septic system.
Can I get a mortgage on a home with a failed septic system?
It ultimately depends on the lender. Many lenders will require the issue to be fixed, or have funds escrowed for repairs prior to closing on the home.
Is replacing a septic system a DIY job?
No, not typically. Many states will require licensed contractors for full septic system installation. However, you can save money by purchasing materials and components directly from Wholesale Septic Supply.
Does homeowner’s insurance cover septic failure?
It may or may not, depending on your homeowner’s insurance coverage. It’s best to consult with your insurance provider to determine if septic failure will be covered.
Purchasing a home with a failed septic system is not always a dealbreaker. With the right research and vetting of the problem, you can have a better grasp and understanding of what to expect. By following these tips in this post, you can start your home buying process on the right foot. Feel free to browse through our wide selection of septic-related products by clicking the button below. We look forward to working with you soon!
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