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Septic Inspection in Fort Smith, AR

Free referral service. Fort Smith Septic Help is not a septic company. We connect homeowners in the Fort Smith area with local septic providers, who do the work and quote you directly.

A septic inspection shows how your system is working before small problems turn into expensive ones. We can connect you with a local provider for a routine checkup or an inspection tied to a home sale.

Routine inspections

The EPA recommends inspecting a septic system every 1 to 3 years. A routine inspection usually checks the sludge and scum levels in the tank, the condition of the tank, lids and baffles, and signs of trouble at the drain field. If the system has pumps, floats or alarms, those get checked too.

Real-estate septic inspections

If you're buying or selling a home on septic in the Fort Smith area, an inspection gives everyone a clear picture of the system before closing. Some buyers, lenders or agents ask for one. Check with your agent or lender about what your contract or loan requires.

Tips for home buyers and sellers:

• Get the permit record. The Arkansas Department of Health says to call the health unit in the county where the property is and ask for the Onsite Environmental Specialist. It helps to know the year the home was built, the subdivision and lot number, and the original owner or builder.
• Ask whether the tank will be pumped. Many inspectors pump the tank during the inspection so they can see its walls and baffles. Ask whether pumping is included in the price.
• Ask for a written report with what was checked and anything that needs attention.
• Allow time. If repairs turn up, permitted repair work in Arkansas has to go through the county's ADH health unit, so leave time before closing.

Mention your closing date in the notes on the form so the provider knows your timeline.

Check your provider's license

Arkansas licenses septic work through the Arkansas Department of Health (ADH). Companies that pump or clean septic tanks need a Septic Tank Cleaner license; septic installers need an installer license; and soil tests and system designs are done by licensed Designated Representatives. ADH has a searchable database of onsite wastewater licensees, linked from its Onsite Wastewater FAQ page.

Sources: U.S. EPA, Resolving Septic System Malfunctions; Arkansas Department of Health, Onsite Wastewater FAQs; 14 CAR § 21-301, Code of Arkansas Rules (permits).