Septic System Inspections

Private sewage disposal systems, including septic systems, are optional systems under the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) Standards of Practice.

TREC does not require an inspector to inspect a private sewage disposal system. If an inspector agrees to inspect one, the applicable TREC requirements apply.

Frontline Inspections, PLLC provides septic system inspections as an optional inspection service.

When a septic system is included within the inspection scope, the inspection addresses the applicable TREC requirements.

The inspector shall report:

• The type of system
• The location of the drain or distribution field
• The proximity of any known:
  
  • Water wells
  • Underground cisterns
  • Water supply lines
  • Bodies of water
  • Sharp slopes or breaks
  • Easement lines
  • Property lines
  • Soil absorption systems
  • Swimming pools
  • Sprinkler systems

The inspector shall also report as deficient applicable conditions involving:

• Visual or olfactory evidence of effluent seepage or flow at the surface
• Inoperative aerators or dosing pumps
• Deficiencies in accessible components
• Functional flow
• Site drainage and clearances around or adjacent to the system
• The aerobic discharge system

These requirements are established by TREC Rule §535.233(g).

The inspector is not required to:

• Excavate or uncover the septic system or its components
• Determine the size of the system
• Determine the adequacy of the system
• Determine the efficiency of the system
• Determine the type of construction used

Because portions of a septic system are underground or concealed, conditions may exist that cannot be observed during a real estate inspection.

When applicable, functional flow is evaluated within the scope of the TREC inspection.

Functional flow observations do not constitute an exhaustive evaluation of the entire septic system and do not establish the future reliability, capacity, efficiency, or remaining service life of the system.

When applicable, aerobic systems are evaluated for the conditions required by the TREC SOP, including accessible components, aerators, dosing pumps, and the aerobic discharge system.

Inoperative aerators or dosing pumps and applicable deficiencies are reported as required by the SOP.

When observed conditions warrant additional investigation beyond the scope of a TREC real estate inspection, further evaluation by an appropriately qualified septic professional may be recommended. 

The recommendation for further evaluation does not constitute a determination of the cause, size, adequacy, efficiency, or remaining service life of the septic system.

Frontline Inspections, PLLC provides septic system inspections throughout the Greater Houston Area as an optional inspection service.

Our inspection and reporting follow the applicable TREC Standards of Practice when a private sewage disposal system is included within the inspection scope.

Serving the Greater Houston Area

Call or Text 281-640-0101 to schedule your inspection or request a free inspection quote.