What is an inspector not required to do in relation to septic systems?

In the context of home inspections, an inspector is generally not required to excavate or uncover septic systems as part of their responsibilities. This requirement is significant because septic systems are often buried and not visible for inspection, and the act of excavating could potentially cause damage to the system or surrounding property.

Inspectors typically perform visual inspections to assess the condition of the septic system based on surface indicators and accessible components, rather than performing invasive work. They assess the location of the system, which involves verifying whether it meets setbacks and other regulations, and they may check the functionality of the septic tank to ensure it is operating as intended. Additionally, evaluating surrounding drainage conditions is important to understand how water flows around the system, which can affect its performance.

Overall, the non-invasive approach to inspecting septic systems emphasizes safety, the integrity of the system, and adherence to standard inspection protocols, ensuring that inspectors focus on observable details rather than intrusive procedures.