Expert: liznarr - 9/22/2008

Question
Hi,
We're considering purchasing a house that has a septic system.  What are the drawbacks? Anything we should insist on with the inspection. Although the housing market has declined, we're looking in the Bay Area where it is still very competitive.  Do you think a septic would deter bidders? Thanks, Tracy

Answer
Hi Tracy,

One drawback to a septic system, in my opinion, is that you cannot/should not put the likes of bones, eggshells, onions, etc., into a kitchen sink disposal which go into the tank.  About once every five years, most home inspectors recommend that septic tanks be pumped out.  The charge for this in my area is $125.  Also, if the drain fields are near a lot of trees, roots can grow into the lines and cause blockages.

The good side of a septic tank is that you don’t have the fees of a public sewer system every month, which can be quite hefty in some areas – especially with private utility companies.  You also do not have to contend with chlorine and other chemicals a utility company adds to the water.

Another good factor is that if there is a break in any public lines, you never have to worry about boiling water or being inconvenienced.

If you water your yard a lot and/or wash your own cars or otherwise have heavy consumption from a spigot OUTSIDE, on a sewer system you will probably pay (in addition to the water charges), another charge for  every gallon you use from the spigot to pay a separate storm water charge.  

Keep in mind that this water goes INTO your yard, not through a public waste treatment facility.  Some utility companies may give a break in the summer, but it is generally not enough to compensate for the outside spigot use because the utility company has no way of knowing how much an individual consumer uses from their outside spigot.

As you can tell, if given a choice, I am an advocate of a septic tank and do not feel a septic system would deter an INFORMED bidder.

Good luck to you, and feel free to write again if you have additional questions.

Regards,
Elizabeth