Residential Septic Inspections in St. Lucie & Martin Counties

Inspection vs Pumping: What’s the Difference?

• Septic Inspection – A diagnostic assessment that checks the system health and performance
• Septic Pumping – The removal of accumulated solids (sludge and scum) to prevent overflow

Regular inspections guide you on when pumping is needed and help extend the life of your system.

Why Septic System Inspections Matter

A full septic inspection is a thorough evaluation of your septic tanks, drain field, piping, and related components to confirm everything is operating safely and efficiently. In St. Lucie and Martin Counties, regular inspections help you: 

• Prevent costly system failures and backups 
• Protect local water quality and the environment
• Maintain the value and safety of your home
• Comply with health department or real estate requirements

How Often Should You Have an Inspection?

For most residential septic systems, a professional inspection every three years is recommended. Systems with mechanical or electrical components (e.g. pumps, alarms, aerators) often require more frequent inspections – sometimes annually or biannually.

Need a septic inspection for your home? Call (772) 773-6570 or contact us online to schedule.

Signs You Should Schedule an Inspection ASAP

Be alert for these red flags that often point to septic trouble:

• Slow draining sinks, tubs, or toilets
• Gurgling or bubbling sounds in plumbing
• Strong, foul odors near the tank or drain field
• Puddles, soggy soil, or usually lush vegetation over your drain field
• Unexplained spike in water usage or utility bills

Our Septic Inspection Process

• Visual Evaluation: 
  • Inspect for leaks, odors, or surface pooling
  • Examine accessible components (covers, lids, baffles, risers)
• Sludge & Scum Measurement:
  • Determine sludge and scum levels to assess whether pumping is needed
• Components Integrity Check:
  • Inspect tank walls, inlet/outlet baffles, distribution box
  • Check plumbing lines to drain field, distribution system, and soil absorption area
• Flow & Performance Test:
  • Introduce water to simulate typical usage
  • Monitor system response to detect blockages, undue backpressure, or flow inspections
• Inspection Report & Recommendations:
  • Provide detailed condition report
  • Mote immediate concerns, maintenance tips, and next steps

How to Prepare for Your Inspection

Before our team arrives, you can help things go smoothly by:

• Locating and uncovering septic tank lids (risers)
• Gathering any prior maintenance or pumping records
• Ensuring vehicles or landscaping don’t block access
• Noting any known plumbing issues or prior system malfunctions

Need a septic inspection for your home? Call (772) 773-6570 or contact us online to schedule.

Buying or Selling a Home? Don’t Skip the Septic Inspection

If you’re in the process of buying or selling in Port St. Lucie, Fort Pierce, Stuart, or surrounding areas, a septic system inspection is a non-negotiable item on your checklist. It offers transparency into existing issues you might not otherwise find and can help avoid expensive surprises like drain field replacement or full system failure.

Pricing & Value of Septic Inspections

The cost of a septic inspection varies depending on system size, complexity, the presence of pumps or alarms, and property access. While pricing may differ, the value is clear, early detection saves thousands in repairs, protects your home’s value, and helps preserve the local environment.

Why Choose Cooke’s, A Wind River Company for Your Septic Inspection?

At Cooke’s, A Wind River Company, we specialize in residential septic services for St. Lucie and Martin Counties. Our service standards include:

• Flexible scheduling (phone, online booking, callback requests)
• Email confirmations with appointment details
• Professional, respectful technicians who document work and deliver post-service summaries
• Reminder programs, maintenance tips, and exclusive savings for homeowners

Don’t wait for a problem to arise. Call us today to schedule your septic inspection in St. Lucie County or Martin County and keep your system running smoothy.

Need a septic inspection for your home? Call (772) 773-6570 or contact us online to schedule.

Helpful Resources

• What to Expect from a Septic Inspection – A detailed walkthrough of what a professional septic inspection includes, from leak checks to piping evaluation and system performance.
• 10 Pro Tips to Prepare for a Perfect Septic Visit – Actionable advice for homeowners to get ready for a septic service visit, making the process smoother and more efficient.
• Busting Septic Tank Myths: Don’t Fall for These Common Misconceptions – Clears up common misunderstandings about septic systems (e.g. flushable wipes, pumping frequency) to help homeowners make better maintenance decisions.