Thinking of buying or selling a home? For those of you not already aware, we offer the following information regarding real estate inspections. This regulation is already in effect. The Mercer County Health Department requires documentation that residential septic systems have been pumped out by a licensed septage hauler within the previous five years from the date of any real estate inspection performed by their department.

Their office recommends as we do, that septic tanks be pumped out every 3 to 5 years. Regular septic tank pumping is crucial to maintaining a properly working system. Failure to have the septic tank pumped regularly will ultimately result in system failure and the need for system replacement. For those buying a home, this regulation helps insure that proper maintenance has taken place on this vital part of your investment.

The Health Department will not be using this requirement to force upgrades to existing septic systems that may not be compliant with newer regulations governing residential septic systems. A septic system will be considered acceptable as long as it is functioning properly at the time of the real estate inspection and not creating a nuisance condition.

If you are looking to buy or sell a home, take appropriate measures to insure the septic system at the property involved is compliant with this regulation as early as possible in the process to avoid delays at or near the time of closing.

For further information or if you have questions concerning this matter, please call the Mercer County Health Department at 419-586-3251.