Septic Inspection in Knoxville, TN

A septic inspection checks the tank, the baffles and the drain field so a buyer knows what they are taking on before closing.

Technician going over a septic inspection with a Knoxville, TN homeowner — septic service scene

Call for a price(865) 822-8707

Price guide: Typically $300 to $600, depending on the system and how much needs checking. A camera check of the lines, when one is needed, adds to that.

These are typical prices for the Knoxville area, to help you plan. Every property is a little different, so we look at yours and confirm your price with you before any work starts.

What actually happens

The inspector finds and opens the tank, and it is usually pumped so the walls and baffles can be seen. They check:

The inlet and outlet baffles, which are the most common thing to find broken.
The liquid level. If it sits above the outlet pipe, the drain field is not taking water.
Cracks, roots and signs that sewage has backed up.
The drain field, walked for wet ground, smell, or grass that is greener over the lines than everywhere else.

Water is run in the house to watch it reach the tank. On site it usually takes one to three hours, mostly depending on how easy the tank is to find. You get a written report on the condition of each part.

Buying or selling a house on septic

Most septic inspections happen because a house is changing hands. If the system has a problem, it is far cheaper to find it before closing than after the keys change hands.

Realtors: there is a page written for you, covering turnaround and what the report contains.

What customers say about our septic inspection

★★★★★

I needed a septic inspection before purchasing a home, and I'm glad I called Knox Septic Services. They were thorough, professional, and took the time to explain their findings. They made sure I understood the condition of the system and what to look out for going forward. Excellent service!

Jennifer M., septic inspection

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Helpful answers

Questions people ask

How long does a septic inspection take?

Usually one to three hours on site. Most of the variation is how long it takes to find and uncover the tank lid.

What happens if the system fails inspection?

It depends on what failed. A broken baffle, a cracked lid or a blocked line is a small repair, and sellers often just fix it before closing. A failing drain field is a bigger job: it needs a soil evaluation, a repair permit and a new field, so buyers and sellers usually negotiate the cost or a credit. In Tennessee, TDEC charges no fee for a repair permit.

Septic inspections for realtors

Towns we cover

Also covered: Lenoir City, Loudon, Greenback, Oliver Springs, Rocky Top, Maynardville, Blaine, Dandridge, Jefferson City, New Market, Pigeon Forge, Townsend, Friendsville.