The first thing homeowners should understand about Title V inspections is why they are required. Title V inspections (T5 for short) are required by Massachusetts if you are a homeowner who is looking to sell, refinance, or change the title name (either adding or expanding) on your home. When you decide to hire a company for a Title V inspection make sure you do your homework. The company should be certified by the state and experienced. The inspection will not be valid if it is not done by a company without the right certifications. Always schedule an appointment for septic tank pumping the day of the T5 inspection. This will ensure a thorough inspection is done. You will want to be as prepared as possible before your inspection. Your septic system might fail a Title V inspection if the tank needs septic pumping more than four times a year, the tank is metal, sewage from your tank is seeping into the house, or the leach field is over-saturated. Another reason might by if public sewer becomes mandated by your city. What happens if your septic system fails the Title V inspection? Here’s what you can expect:
- Time to make repairs. If your septic system fails the Title V inspection, you can expect to be allowed at least two years to complete the repairs on your septic system.
- Reports to the Board of Health. You must contact your local Board of Health for their approval on all the repairs and upgrades. If your system passes the Title V inspection, you will not need another inspection for two years. If you have your tank pumped and inspected annually, the Title 5 inspection will be good for three years.
- Septic pumping service and repairs. You may need to have your septic tank pumped or repairs made on one or more of the sections. Get everything in writing from the inspector and call a reputable company right away for a quote.