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Septic tank inspection checklist

Septic tank inspection checklist

Ensure the proper functioning of your septic system with this comprehensive inspection checklist. It covers essential checks for tank integrity, drainage, and maintenance needs. Use this checklist to prevent issues and maintain a healthy septic system.

Use this template
or download pdf
Septic tank inspection checklist

Ensure the proper functioning of your septic system with this comprehensive inspection checklist. It covers essential checks for tank integrity, drainage, and maintenance needs. Use this checklist to prevent issues and maintain a healthy septic system.

Use this template
or download pdf

About the Septic tank inspection checklist

Using a septic tank inspection checklist template is essential for maintaining the health and functionality of your septic system. With it you can ensure that all necessary inspections are conducted systematically, reducing the risk of costly repairs and environmental hazards.

The primary purpose of a septic tank inspection checklist is to enhance operational efficiency and ensure compliance with health regulations. It helps you identify potential issues early, allowing for timely maintenance and preventing system failures. 

Additionally, using a checklist promotes consistency across inspections, minimizing the likelihood of oversight. By integrating this template into your routine, you can improve the longevity of your septic system and maintain a safe, clean environment for your property.

Key elements of a septic tank inspection checklist template

Understanding the key elements of a septic tank inspection checklist template is crucial for ensuring thorough and effective evaluations. Here are the essential components you should include:

  • Tank integrity assessment: This section focuses on examining the physical condition of the tank, checking for cracks, leaks, or structural damage. By ensuring the tank’s integrity, you can prevent leaks and contamination, safeguarding the surrounding environment.
  • Sludge and scum level measurement: Accurately measuring the levels of sludge and scum is vital for determining when the tank needs to be pumped. Regular monitoring helps you maintain optimal tank function and prevent overflow or blockages.
  • Drainage and absorption area inspection: This component involves evaluating the drainage field to ensure it is absorbing effluent properly. Checking for signs of saturation or pooling water helps you identify potential issues before they escalate into serious problems.
  • Inlet and outlet inspection: Ensure that the inlet and outlet pipes are clear of obstructions and functioning correctly. This step is essential for maintaining proper flow and preventing backups, which can lead to system failure.

By incorporating these elements into your septic tank inspection checklist, you can create a comprehensive tool that enhances maintenance, ensures compliance, and optimizes the longevity of your septic system.

How to customize your septic tank inspection checklist template

Customizing your septic tank inspection checklist template can make it more effective and tailored to your specific requirements. Start by adapting the tank integrity section to include checks specific to your tank type or local regulations. This ensures that you are evaluating the most relevant aspects of your system.

You can also modify the sludge and scum measurement component to incorporate additional metrics or methods that align with your maintenance schedule. This customization helps you maintain optimal tank function and prevent issues. Additionally, consider adding fields for specific drainage area concerns or unique site conditions that may affect your system’s performance.

Finally, adjust the template to fit your organizational structure by incorporating role assignments or approval workflows. By aligning the template with your specific needs, you can streamline your inspection processes, improve documentation accuracy, and ensure that your septic system consistently meets quality standards.

Related categories

  • Operational excellence templates
  • Facility management templates
  • Maintenance templates
Preview of the template
Septic Tank Inspection Checklist
Before the Inspection
Take/attach photo(s) of as-built drawing
Date of Last Septic Tank Inspection
Date of Last Septic Tank Pumping
Have there been any repairs on the septic tank?
Specify
During the Inspection
Are you inspecting with someone—who marks off this checklist as you go and calls a professional if you encounter problems?
Are you wearing protective clothing (e.g. rubber gloves and eye protection)?
Have you assembled the tools and materials needed for the inspection?
Have you reviewed the safety rules (e.g. fall and trip hazards)?
Septic Tank
Are the risers watertight with no visible leaks?
Test the water tightness of risers by running a hose on the outside.
Are the risers free of cracks or visible damage?
Is the tank free of strong, overpowering odor?
Where is the liquid level in the tank?
The tank may be leaking.
The pipe may be blocked.
Does the scum layer look like living, healthy soil?
The floating scum layer in a septic tank is composed of oil, fat, soap scum, hair, and even paper products like facial tissues that float before they sink. The scum layer forms naturally and acts as an internal lid for the contents of the septic tank that keeps air out. This allows bacteria to thrive and break down waste in the tank.
Is the scum layer well below lid opening?
Can you clearly see baffles above the scum layer?
Baffles are septic tank components that slow wastewater entry sufficiently to ensure the distillation of solids, and prevent their release (as well as the release of scum) into the drainfield. In doing so, they protect the absorptive quality of the soil and prolong the life of the septic system as a whole.
Are baffles free of clogs and leaks around the seals? (If concrete—Is it intact and not corroded?)
Did you clean the outlet baffle filter?
Scum and Sludge Measurements
Scum
Inlet scum
Outlet scum
Total scum height (in inches)
Sludge
Inlet sludge
Outlet sludge
Total sludge height (in inches)
Does your tank need pumping?
Septic tank pumping is required when the total scum height is more than 6 inches, the total sludge height is more than 12 inches, and the total scum and sludge exceeds 18 inches.
System Type
Gravity Drainfield Septic System
Are there no strong odors?
Are there no mushy or swampy areas or surfacing effluent (liquid wastewater)?
Is there no standing water inside the inspection port(s)?
Does the system have a distribution box?
Is it accessible?
Is the distribution box free of solid waste, scum, and clogs?
Is the distribution box free from cracks and leaks?
Does the effluent appear to be flowing evenly into all drain pipes?
Pressurized Drainfield Pump Tank
Are there no strong odors?
Are there no mushy or swampy areas or surfacing effluent (liquid wastewater)?
If inspection ports are present, is there no standing water after 2 hours?
Is the riser water tight and free of cracks and damage?
Is the pump tank free of solids?
Is the pump tank free from corrosion or damage?
Is the electrical junction box intact and free of corrosion and damage to the wires?
Is the control panel free of leaks, corrosion or loose wires?
Did you change the battery in the control panel?
Are the floats attached to the float tree and not hung up on anything?
Does the alarm sound when the alarm float is lifted?
If there’s a basket screen present, is it intact and not collapsed?
Sandfilter Drainfield Pump Tank
Are there no strong odors?
Are there no mushy or swampy areas or surfacing effluent (liquid wastewater)?
If inspection ports are present, is there no standing water after 2 hours?
Is the riser water tight and free of cracks and damage?
Is the pump tank free of solids?
Is the pump tank free from corrosion or damage?
Is the electrical junction box intact and free of corrosion and damage to the wires?
Is the control panel free of leaks, corrosion or loose wires?
Did you change the battery in the control panel?
Are the floats attached to the float tree and not hung up on anything?
Does the alarm sound when the alarm float is lifted?
If there’s a basket screen present, is it intact and not collapsed?
Mound System Pump Tank
Are there no strong odors?
Are there no mushy or swampy areas or surfacing effluent (liquid wastewater)?
If inspection ports are present, is there no standing water after 2 hours?
Is the riser water tight and free of cracks and damage?
Is the pump tank free of solids?
Is the pump tank free from corrosion or damage?
Is the electrical junction box intact and free of corrosion and damage to the wires?
Is the control panel free of leaks, corrosion or loose wires?
Did you change the battery in the control panel?
Are the floats attached to the float tree and not hung up on anything?
Does the alarm sound when the alarm float is lifted?
If there’s a basket screen present, is it intact and not collapsed?
After the Inspection
Are all openings covered and lids secured?
Are all tools washed and sanitized?
Are septic system maintenance records updated?
Completion
Additional Comments
Corrective actions have been assigned and inspections have been scheduled.
Inspector Name & Signature
Name & Signature
This template was downloaded 28 times

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Frequently asked questions

How often should a septic tank be inspected?

A septic tank should be inspected at least once every three years to ensure it is functioning properly. Regular inspections help identify potential issues early, preventing costly repairs and environmental damage. For larger systems or those with heavy use, more frequent inspections may be necessary.

What are common signs that a septic tank needs maintenance?

Common signs that a septic tank needs maintenance include slow drains, unpleasant odors, pooling water around the drain field, and sewage backups. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent more severe problems and extend the life of your septic system.

How can I prevent septic tank problems?

Prevent septic tank problems by scheduling regular inspections, avoiding flushing non-biodegradable items, and conserving water. Regular pumping and maintenance also help keep the system functioning efficiently and prevent blockages or overflows.

Why is it important to monitor sludge and scum levels in a septic tank?

Monitoring sludge and scum levels is important because it helps determine when the tank needs to be pumped. Keeping these levels in check prevents overflow and blockages, ensuring the septic system operates efficiently and prolonging its lifespan.


This template, developed by Lumiform employees, serves as a starting point for businesses using the Lumiform platform and is intended as a hypothetical example only. It does not replace professional advice. Companies should consult qualified professionals to assess the suitability and legality of using this template in their specific workplace or jurisdiction. Lumiform is not liable for any errors or omissions in this template or for any actions taken based on its content.
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