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Septic System Inspections in the Lehigh Valley, PA

A proper septic inspection tells you exactly what you're dealing with — whether you're buying a home, selling one, or just want to know where your system stands. Our inspections follow Pennsylvania industry-standard protocols and end with a clear written report, not jargon.

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When you need a septic inspection

• Buying a home with a septic system. This is the big one. A failed or failing system can cost many thousands to replace, and sellers aren't always forthcoming about maintenance history. An inspection before closing is cheap insurance.
• Selling a home. Some Lehigh Valley municipalities require an inspection at property transfer. Even where it's not required, a clean inspection report removes a buyer's objection and keeps your deal on track.
• Routine checkups. If your system is 15+ years old or you have no maintenance records, a periodic inspection catches small problems while they're still small.
• After a problem. Ongoing odors, slow drains, or wet spots deserve a full evaluation, not just a pump-out and a shrug.

What our inspection covers

Our inspections are modeled on the protocols published by the Pennsylvania Septic Management Association (PSMA) — the state's industry standard for thorough, consistent evaluations. Here's what we check:

The tank

• Tank size, material, and structural condition (cracks, deterioration, root intrusion)
• Sludge and scum levels — measured, not guessed
• Inlet and outlet baffles or tees
• Lid condition and access

Flow and components

• Water flow test through the system
• Distribution box level and condition
• Pump, floats, and alarm operation (on pumped systems)
• Effluent filter condition

The drain field

• Surface conditions: wet spots, odors, unusually lush growth
• Signs of hydraulic overload or biomat clogging
• Setbacks and site conditions that affect performance

Records and history

• Available pumping and service records
• System age and design information where available
• Overall condition rating with recommended next steps

What you get: a report you can actually use

Within a short time after the visit, you receive a written report with findings, photos of anything notable, and clear recommendations — pump now, monitor this, repair that, or (often) everything looks fine, see you in three years. If you're in a real estate transaction, the report is written to be shared with your agent, lender, or attorney.

Inspection FAQs

How long does an inspection take?

Typically 1 to 2 hours on site, depending on the system type and how accessible the components are. Buried lids add time — another reason to consider risers.

Should the tank be pumped before inspection?

Often yes — an empty tank lets us see the interior condition clearly. We can coordinate pumping and inspection in a single visit, which saves you a second appointment.

What if the inspection finds problems?

You'll get an honest assessment of severity and options, from simple repairs to, in the worst case, replacement planning. Most findings are minor and fixable.

Inspections across the Lehigh Valley

We perform septic inspections in Allentown, Bethlehem, Easton, Nazareth, Emmaus, Whitehall, and all surrounding areas. See our full service area or read answers to common septic questions.