Septic System Inspection

SMR Inspection Services provides septic system inspections for residential, rural, and agricultural properties throughout Western Colorado. Septic inspections help buyers, sellers, and property owners understand the condition and function of private wastewater systems, which are common outside of municipal sewer areas.

Because septic systems are largely underground, issues can go unnoticed until failures occur. A professional inspection helps identify concerns before they become costly repairs.

What Is a Septic System Inspection?

A septic system inspection is a non-invasive evaluation of the visible and accessible components of a private wastewater system. The inspection is designed to identify observable defects, improper conditions, or signs of system distress at the time of inspection.

Septic inspections are commonly performed:

During real estate transactions
As part of routine property maintenance
When system performance concerns are present

Why Septic Inspections Are Important

Septic system repairs can be expensive, particularly when components such as the leach field fail. A professional inspection helps:

Identify red flags before purchase or sale
Reduce uncertainty during negotiations
Support maintenance planning
Avoid unexpected post-purchase expenses

Many septic issues develop gradually and may not produce obvious symptoms until significant damage has occurred.

Main Components of a Septic System

A typical septic system includes three primary components:

Septic Tank – Separates solids from wastewater and allows biological digestion
Distribution Box (when present) – Distributes effluent evenly to the drain field
Leach Field (Drain Field) – Allows treated wastewater to disperse into the soil

Failure of any one of these components can affect the performance of the entire system.

What Is Evaluated During the Inspection

Depending on accessibility and scope, a septic inspection may include evaluation of:

Septic tank location, access, and visible condition
Tank covers and risers
Distribution box (if accessible)
Drain field area and surface conditions
Evidence of system backup, surfacing effluent, or saturation
Observable site conditions that may impact system performance

Inspection limitations are clearly documented when components are buried, inaccessible, or require excavation.

How Often Should a Septic System Be Inspected?

Septic systems are commonly recommended to be inspected and pumped every 3 to 5 years, depending on:

Household size
System design
Usage patterns

Regular inspections and maintenance can significantly extend the life of the system and reduce the likelihood of major failures.

Rural & Acreage Properties

Septic inspections are especially important for rural and acreage properties, where systems may be older, non-standard, or subject to varying soil and groundwater conditions. SMR Inspection Services understands the challenges unique to rural wastewater systems and evaluates them accordingly.

Clear, Practical Reporting

Following the inspection, clients receive a clear written report documenting observed conditions, limitations, and recommendations. Reports are designed to support:

Real estate transactions
Repair and maintenance decisions
Communication with contractors or service providers

Schedule a Septic System Inspection

If you are purchasing, selling, or maintaining a property with a septic system in Western Colorado, contact SMR Inspection Services to discuss inspection scope and scheduling.