Before We Arrive: How to Prepare
A little prep goes a long way. The most important thing you can do is make the tank covers accessible.
Locate Your Tank Covers
Most tanks have 1–3 covers (lids) at or near ground level. If you're not sure where they are, check with the previous owner or your county records.
Uncover the Lids
All tank covers must be fully accessible before we arrive. If covers are buried, dig around each lid down to the bottom edge of the cover — not just the top. This allows our inspector to lift the lid safely without working in an awkward, difficult position.
Know How Many Covers You Have
The number of covers determines your base inspection fee before discounts.
Supply Running Water
Please provide a hose with a good sprayer nozzle. It can be anywhere on the property — it usually does not need to reach the tank area.
Clear the Area
Remove any obstacles (lawn furniture, garden beds, vehicles) from around the tank area. Our inspector needs room to work safely.
Be Home If You Can
We love company and will walk you through everything we find. We work hard to schedule when you can be there. If you can't be home, we can share results by text, photos, or a phone call.
What Our Inspector Checks
Once covers are accessible, our inspector takes it from here. Here's exactly what we check — and why each step matters.
Cover and Riser Condition
We check that covers and risers are present, intact, and properly secured. Damaged or missing covers and/or risers are a safety hazard and an immediate flag.
Fluid Level and Balance Measurements
We measure the liquid level in the tank relative to the outlet pipe. High levels may indicate an exit pipe or drain field problem; low levels can indicate leaks. We measure the balance of fluids. You are allowed up to 1/3 sludge and scum.
Tank Structural Integrity
We look for baffle condition, tank corrosion, or signs of structural compromise in the tank walls, lid, and risers above the fluid line.
Distribution Box and Drain Field
Where accessible, we evaluate the distribution box and note any surface signs of drain field failure (odors, wet spots, unusually lush grass). We check inspection pipes in the drain field when possible.
Pumping Recommendation
We tell you honestly whether your tank needs pumping and why. We don't perform pumping ourselves — you call the pumper of your choice. We will give you instructions for your pumper so they know exactly what to do.
County Reports
For most counties, we file the official report online and you have nothing more to do. Dodge and Iowa counties require the homeowner to submit the form — we'll fill it out during the inspection and leave it for you to sign and send in. Please have your county form available at the time of inspection.