Septic Inspection
Septic System Inspection in Clarkston, MI
B&B Sewer Cleaning provides comprehensive septic system inspection services for homes and commercial properties throughout Clarkston, MI. Whether you're due for routine maintenance, preparing for a real estate transaction, or dealing with suspected system issues, a detailed inspection can identify concerns early and ensure continued functionality. Septic inspections are a critical part of system management, especially in areas where properties rely heavily on onsite wastewater treatment systems like Clarkston and the surrounding Oakland County communities.
Septic inspections are not just a box to check—they provide insight into the health and performance of your tank, lines, and drain field. Our experienced technicians are trained to evaluate every critical component of your system using visual checks, flow testing, and advanced equipment when necessary.
What Is a Septic System Inspection?
A septic inspection involves evaluating all parts of your onsite wastewater treatment system. This includes examining the tank’s contents, structural condition, connections, baffles, distribution system, and leach field area. It’s designed to uncover hidden issues that could lead to system failure or costly repairs if left unaddressed.
Inspections may be visual (non-invasive) or full (requiring uncovering tank lids and testing functionality). B&B Sewer Cleaning
offers both depending on your needs and property requirements.
When to Schedule a Septic Inspection
Understanding the timing of septic inspections is key to maintaining a healthy system. While many property owners wait for problems to arise, preventative inspections often reveal issues before they escalate.
Real Estate Transactions
Septic inspections are often required during the sale of a property. A complete inspection gives buyers peace of mind and sellers the documentation needed for a smooth closing.
Routine Maintenance Cycles
Homeowners and landlords who proactively maintain their systems usually schedule inspections every 1 to 3 years, particularly before or after tank pumping.
Following Backups or Slow Drainage
If your sinks, toilets, or drains are slow-moving—or you’ve experienced gurgling sounds or odors—an inspection can help locate the issue and confirm whether pumping or repairs are needed.
Changes in Occupancy or Water Use
Increased household occupancy or added water fixtures can put strain on an existing system. An inspection helps determine whether the system can handle the new load.
What Our Septic Inspection Includes
B&B Sewer Cleaning
follows a detailed inspection protocol tailored to system type, tank size, and property layout. Every inspection begins with a site assessment and review of visible signs, followed by direct analysis of the internal components.
Access and Lid Exposure
If the tank is buried, we expose the lid to gain proper access. We recommend the installation of risers for easier future inspections and pumping.
Tank Level Evaluation
By measuring scum and sludge levels, we determine if the tank is functioning correctly and whether pumping is overdue.
Inlet and Outlet Checks
We inspect the inlet and outlet pipes to ensure wastewater is entering and exiting the tank as designed, without signs of blockages or collapse.
Baffle Condition
Baffles are crucial for directing flow and preventing solids from entering the drain field. We examine both inlet and outlet baffles for damage or detachment.
Structural Integrity of The Tank
We inspect the tank for cracks, corrosion, or compromised seals that could lead to leaks or groundwater contamination.
Flow and Hydraulic Load Testing
If needed, we simulate normal water usage to observe the system’s reaction to volume and detect slow drainage or improper flow to the leach field.
Leach Field and Surrounding Area
The final part of the inspection includes a walk-through of the yard and leach field to check for soggy spots, odors, or other indicators of drain field failure.
Time-of-Sale Septic Inspections in Clarkston, MI
In many cases, especially in Oakland County, septic inspections are required as part of the real estate closing process. These time-of-sale inspections are more regulated and may require specific forms or testing methods depending on municipal codes. B&B Sewer Cleaning is experienced with these requirements and can coordinate directly with real estate agents, title companies, and county health officials.
Reporting and Documentation
We provide clear, easy-to-understand inspection reports with photos, system diagrams, condition summaries, and recommendations.
Coordination with Other Services
If needed, we can provide same-day pumping in conjunction with the inspection, or schedule repairs based on findings.
Pre-Sale and Buyer Inspections
We offer inspection services to both sellers preparing to list their homes and buyers seeking verification of system condition before purchase.
Why Septic Inspections Matter in Clarkston
The soil conditions, water tables, and spacing regulations in Clarkston, MI make septic inspections especially important. Properties in Independence Township and surrounding rural areas often rely on aging systems that need regular oversight to continue functioning effectively. Additionally, many local homes were built before modern permitting standards, which makes professional evaluations even more crucial for early detection of system vulnerabilities.
Septic system issues can go unnoticed for years until they result in complete failure or expensive remediation. Regular inspections help protect property value, reduce emergency service calls, and prolong the lifespan of the system.
Service Area and Scheduling
B&B Sewer Cleaning
provides septic system inspections across Clarkston and greater Oakland County, including Waterford, Ortonville, Davisburg, Holly, and Brandon Township. Our scheduling is flexible, and we offer weekday, weekend, and emergency options based on availability.
Licensed and Insured Service
Our technicians are licensed and fully trained in septic system evaluation, and we remain compliant with Michigan and Oakland County environmental codes.
Local Knowledge
With years of experience in Clarkston-area soil types and septic regulations, we know what to look for and how to identify potential problems specific to this region.