Septic System Inspections

Septic systems need regular maintenance and inspections to ensure they are working properly. Read below to find out how a septic system works and when to have your system inspected.

How a septic system works

In a septic system, wastewater from sinks, toilets, showers and washing machines goes into an underground septic tank. The tank holds the solids while liquid goes through drainage lines into the soil. In the soil, bacteria and other natural processes clean the water. If this system isn’t working properly, bacteria and viruses from human waste can get into drinking water or nearby recreational water, which can be a serious health risk.

What if I’m buying a house or simply want peace of mind?

Wake County does not provide point-of-sale septic system inspections on real estate transactions. For a list of private certified inspection professionals, contact the North Carolina Onsite Wastewater Contractor Inspector Certification Board. If you are worried that your septic system may be experiencing issues, you can contract with a licensed septic professional to evaluate the problem and offer guidance toward a solution.

What if I have a system with a pump?

If you have a system with a pump, it will require recurring inspections by Wake County Onsite Water Protection staff in accordance with 15A NCAC 18E .1301. Wake County inspections are not set up by requests from residents.

The frequency of inspections depends on the type of septic system you have. Here are the State-mandated inspection times for each type:

• Type IIIB – This system has one pump and is often found at homes. It must be inspected by Wake County staff once every five years.
• Type IV – These systems have more than one pump or use low-pressure drainage pipes. They require inspection by Wake County every three years.
• Type V – These systems use advanced treatment parts or other complex technologies. They need yearly inspections.
• Type VI – These systems handle more than 3,000 gallons of wastewater per day or use wastewater recycling technologies. They must be inspected twice a year.
   

*Per State mandate, Types IV, V and VI require the system owner to have a contract with a certified operator or licensed management company to handle maintenance. This is separate from the inspections done by Wake County.

What if I got a letter from the County saying I have to have an inspection?

A notification letter will be sent prior to your system inspection. Please pay attention to the notice and don’t throw it away. The inspection happens outside, and you don’t have to be home for it. You can also arrange for special scheduling if needed, such as unlocking a gate or removing pets. After the inspection, you will be sent a report.

What if I have wastewater backing up or surfacing?

If your septic system is experiencing issues, you can contract with a licensed septic professional to evaluate the problem and offer guidance toward a solution. They may ask you to apply for a septic repair permit through Wake County. Check out the Septic System Complaint/Report Form for help and to report the issue.