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How to Inspect Your Septic System: A Homeowner’s Monthly Checklist

Regular septic system inspections can save you thousands of dollars in repairs and prevent embarrassing backups. You can perform simple monthly checks to keep your system running smoothly between professional services.

What You’ll Need:

Flashlight or smartphone light
Garden spade or probe rod
Notebook for record-keeping
Rubber gloves

Step-by-Step Monthly Inspection:
1. Check Your Drain Field (Leach Field)

Walk around your drain field area and look for:

Standing water or soggy spots
Lush, green grass growing in strips (could indicate leaking)
Strong sewage odors
Any pooling liquid on the surface

2. Locate and Inspect Your Septic Tank

Find your tank access ports and check:

Are the lids secure and not cracked?
Any settlement or sinking around the tank area?
Unusual odors near the tank?

3. Monitor Your Household Drains

Inside your home, pay attention to:

Slow-draining sinks, tubs, or toilets
Gurgling sounds from drains
Sewage backing up into fixtures
Unusual odors from drains

4. Document Your Findings

Keep a simple log noting:

Date of inspection
Any issues observed
Weather conditions (heavy rains can affect performance)

When to call Commonwealth Waste Solutions:

If you notice any of these warning signs during your inspection, contact us immediately at (804) 895-6355:

Standing water in the drain field
Sewage odors that persist
Slow drains throughout the house
Any visible damage to tank components

Professional Tip: Most septic systems need pumping every 3-5 years, but regular inspections help determine the right schedule for your specific system and household size. Call Commonwealth Waste Solutions at (804) 895-6355 to schedule your next service.