Help Septic Tank!…..

[Lucia Lilac]

Hello BP! 
I was looking to purchase a property but I don’t have to much knowledge or experience on septic tanks. is that something to avoid? What are your thoughts?

[JD Martin]

Pros:

No sewer bill to pay

Property doesn't have to be in a city

Generally more space between houses

Cons:

Can be old and failing

EPA rules can limit your ability to repair/replace

Repair/replace can cost big money

Personally, I try not to buy houses with septic tanks as rentals because renters are like this:

They flush all kinds of crap down tanks that don't belong there. With a septic tank the only thing you should be flushing is crap and toilet paper - no flushable wipes (they don't go in sewers either, btw), no paper towels, feminine hygiene products, diapers, food from a garbage disposal, etc. Tanks also need to be inspected and pumped periodically. No heavy chemicals should go down the drain. ETC. 

Given a choice I'll take sewers any time. But I do have a couple of houses with septics that do OK, and my own personal house has a septic tank.