Septic Inspection
Septic Inspection Services in Nashville & Middle Tennessee
Knowledge is power when it comes to your septic system. Whether you're buying a home, selling property, or simply maintaining your investment, professional septic inspection gives you the clear picture you need to make informed decisions. Prodigy Sewer & Drain delivers comprehensive septic inspection services throughout Davidson and Williamson Counties, using advanced technology to evaluate your system thoroughly and honestly.
Our licensed team provides detailed evaluations using CCTV camera technology and proven diagnostic methods, delivering accurate reports you can trust for real estate transactions, maintenance planning, or compliance documentation. We bring the same diagnostic expertise to septic inspections that makes us leaders in sewer line evaluation.
Our Comprehensive Inspection Process
Step 1: Initial Consultation
We begin by understanding your inspection needs. Are you buying or selling? Do you need a TDEC inspection letter? We schedule convenient appointments and explain what to expect.
Step 2: Visual Assessment
Our technicians start with thorough visual evaluation:
- Locate all septic system components
- Inspect visible pipes, risers, and access points
- Assess drainfield area for standing water or odors
- Check for warning signs of system distress
- Document property conditions
Step 3: Septic Tank Inspection
We access the septic tank (uncovering it if necessary) and evaluate structural condition, inlet and outlet baffles, sludge and scum levels, tank capacity and proper sizing, evidence of backups, and condition of risers and lids.
Using camera inspection technology, we examine tank interiors and connected pipes—revealing problems invisible to visual inspection.
Step 4: Distribution System Evaluation
We assess the distribution box and piping:
- Distribution box condition and leveling
- Outlet flow balance to drainfield
- Pipe condition and proper slope
- Evidence of blockages or root intrusion
- Connection integrity
For systems with pumps, we test pump operation, float switches, electrical connections, and control panels.
Step 5: Drainfield Assessment
The drainfield is your system’s most critical component. We evaluate soil absorption capacity, evidence of saturation or clogging, proper sizing and layout, signs of vehicle compaction, root intrusion from nearby trees, and drainage patterns.
We use hydraulic testing to assess how well the drainfield accepts and processes effluent.
Advanced Inspection Technology
CCTV Camera Inspection
Our video camera inspection equipment provides detailed interior views of septic tanks, pipe interiors, distribution systems, and evidence of structural damage. Camera inspection reveals problems invisible to visual assessment.
Electronic Locating Equipment
We use electronic locating technology to precisely map buried components, locate tanks and distribution boxes, identify underground pipes, and create accurate system diagrams.
Hydraulic Testing
We perform hydraulic tests assessing how quickly the drainfield absorbs effluent, whether the system handles typical flows, evidence of saturation, and distribution balance.
Real Estate Transaction Inspections
Protecting Buyers & Sellers
Real estate transactions involving septic systems require professional inspection. Our inspection services support smooth transactions.
For Home Buyers:
- Know exactly what you’re buying
- Identify problems before closing
- Negotiate repairs or price adjustments
- Avoid surprise expenses
- Verify seller claims
For Home Sellers:
- Demonstrate system reliability
- Address problems proactively
- Prevent deals from falling through
- Justify asking price
- Expedite closing
For Real Estate Agents:
- Provide clients with trusted inspection resources
- Prevent deal complications
- Documentation supporting valuations
- Professional reports meeting lender requirements
Why Choose Prodigy for Septic Inspection
Our team holds Tennessee Septic System Installer Permits and Master Plumbing licenses. We've inspected hundreds of Middle Tennessee septic systems—we know what to look for.
Our CCTV inspection equipment provides detailed views of system interiors. Electronic locating technology maps components precisely. Hydraulic testing assesses actual performance.
We provide objective, unbiased evaluations. Whether you're buying, selling, or maintaining, you'll receive accurate assessments without conflicts of interest.
Our detailed reports include photographs, findings, recommendations, and cost estimates—everything you need for informed decisions. Reports meet requirements for real estate transactions, lenders, and county authorities.
Beyond inspections, we provide:
- Septic installation for new systems
- Septic repair when problems are identified
- Emergency septic services 24/7
- Maintenance coordination
- Permit assistance
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a septic inspection cost?
Septic inspection costs in Middle Tennessee typically range from $300-$500 for comprehensive residential inspections. Pre-purchase inspections for real estate transactions typically cost $350-$500. Routine maintenance inspections are often $300-$400. TDEC inspection letters carry a $200 fee through state agencies. We provide detailed pricing when scheduling.
How long does a septic inspection take?
Most residential septic inspections take 1-3 hours depending on system complexity and property conditions. Simple inspections of accessible systems take about 1 hour. Properties where we must locate buried components may require 2-3 hours. We provide written reports within 24-48 hours.
What should I do to prepare for inspection?
Locate your septic system components if known. Provide access to tank lids and inspection ports. Clear vegetation from suspected septic areas. Gather any maintenance records or pumping receipts. If you cannot locate system components, we have equipment to find them.
Will you pump my septic tank during inspection?
Pumping is not automatically included but may be recommended. If sludge levels are high, we may recommend pumping before completing drainfield assessment. We coordinate pumping services if needed. Pumping costs are separate from inspection fees.
Can you provide inspection reports for real estate transactions?
Yes, our inspection reports meet requirements for real estate transactions throughout Middle Tennessee. We provide detailed written reports in formats acceptable to real estate agents, lenders, title companies, and county authorities. We understand transaction timelines and provide fast turnaround.
What happens if the inspection finds problems?
When inspections reveal problems, we provide detailed explanations of issues, severity, and repair options. Our reports include prioritized recommendations and cost estimates. For real estate transactions, findings can be used to negotiate repairs or price adjustments. We can schedule repairs through our septic repair services.
Do I need an inspection if the system seems fine?
Yes, regular inspections are recommended even for apparently functioning systems. Many problems develop gradually without obvious symptoms. Inspections catch issues early when repairs are simpler and less expensive. If you haven't inspected your system in 5+ years, scheduling inspection is wise preventive maintenance.
How often should I get my septic system inspected?
Most residential septic systems should be inspected every 3-5 years. Properties with aerobic treatment systems benefit from annual inspections. Properties with older systems (20+ years) should be inspected every 2-3 years. Before buying or selling property, always get professional inspection.