How To Become A Septic Tank Inspector In Texas? (Question)

• In Texas, for example, different licensing levels authorize septic system professionals to perform specific tasks. In addition to obtaining the required state and local business licenses, state professional licensing boards generally require successful completion of basic training courses, work experience and passing a licensing examination.

How do I become a septic inspector in Texas?

Applicants must possess one of the following:

1. Current Installer II license;
2. Designated Representative license;
3. Texas Professional Engineer license;
4. Texas Professional Sanitarian license;
5. Certified Professional Soil Scientist; or.
6. Texas Professional Geoscientist license in the soil science discipline.

How much does a septic inspection cost in Texas?

How Much Does A Septic Inspection Cost? According to Thumbtack a full inspection for a 1,000 to 1,500-gallon tank can cost anywhere between $200 and $600. The amount is negligible compared with the cost of replacing a drain field which can cost anywhere between $2,500 and $10,000.

How do I get a license to install septic system in Texas?

Becoming a licensed or certified septic tank installer generally involves completing an application detailing your background and professional experience, paying an annually renewable fee and passing an exam covering installation, operational details and safety procedures.

Can I inspect my own septic system in Texas?

In the State of Texas, the aerobic septic systems must be inspected 3-4 times a year by a licensed septic professional. Under current State changes in the law, it is now possible for the homeowner to take a certification course on their particular brand of septic system and to perform the maintenance themselves.

How many septic tanks can you have per acre in Texas?

(Q) How many houses can I put on my property with septic? (A) You may have one single family dwelling per acre that utilize public water supply and on-site sewage facilities. Where a private water supply is used and on-site sewage facilities, you must maintain one single family dwelling per one and a half acres.

Who regulates septic systems in Texas?

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality designated LCRA as an authorized agent to administer its on-site sewage facility rules and standards within LCRA’s jurisdiction under Chapter 341 and Chapter 366 of the Texas Health and Safety Code.

Do I need a certificate for my septic tank?

The General Binding Rules were designed to simplify the regulation of small sewage discharges. Septic tanks and small sewage treatment plants no longer need to be registered and there is no legal requirement to keep records of maintenance (although this is advisable).

Can you sell a property with a septic tank?

If you’re selling a property with a septic tank, then you must be transparent with buyers about the fact the property uses a one and provide a detailed specification of the system. In fact, You are required by law to inform a buyer in writing about the presence of a septic tank. The age of the system.

How much does it cost to pump a septic tank?

How much does it cost to pump out a septic tank? The average cost is $300, but can run up to $500, depending on your location. The tank should be pumped out every three to five years.

How much does it cost to install a septic system in Texas?

Installation of a septic system costs between $2,800 and $8,000 with an average of $5,000. Between $5,000 and $22,500 is the range for total expenses for well and septic system drilling and installation.

Can I use a plastic septic tank in Texas?

Texas Septic Tanks Save up to 50% on plastic septic tanks. These septic tanks are state approved for use in the state of Texas.

How do I maintain my septic tank in Texas?

Take Care of Your Drainfield

1. Maintain plants and vegetation that are near your system to ensure roots do not block drains.
2. Park cars and heavy vehicles away from your drainfield and tank.
3. Keep roof drains, sump pumps, and other rainwater drainage systems away from your drainfield area.

Are septic tanks still legal?

Septic Tanks Explained… Septic tanks cannot discharge to surface water drains, rivers, canals, ditches, streams or any other type of waterway. you are required to upgrade or replace your septic tank treatment system to a full sewage treatment plant by 2020, or when you sell a property, if it’s prior to this date.

Can you have a septic tank without a leach field?

The waste from most septic tanks flows to a soakaway system or a drainage field. If your septic tank doesn’t have a drainage field or soakaway system, the waste water will instead flow through a sealed pipe and empty straight into a ditch or a local water course.

How long do septic tanks last in Texas?

Age of the System It’s pretty common for a septic system to last 40 years or longer, which means if you buy a new home, you might never need to replace it.

Occupational Licenses: On-Site Sewage Facilities (Septic Systems)

Extra fat and grease should not be let into the system since they will congeal and produce clogs. Along with this, installing a trash disposal in the kitchen sink is not recommended since it would encourage the dumping of goods that are heavy in fats and oils, which is not healthy. Use of disposal units should be restricted where they have already been installed; do not flush home cleaning fluids down the toilet and use chlorine bleaches and disinfectants only when absolutely necessary. – You should avoid the use of chemicals such as additives, enzymes, and “cleaners” for your septic tank.

It is not recommended to dispose of harmful substances down any drain once they have been introduced into the leaching system and have begun to clog the infiltrative surface; No non-biodegradable items or objects, such as cigarette butts, disposable diapers, or feminine products, should be disposed of in the garbage (particularly, tampons).

This is a strictly enforced violation under the Public Health Code of Canada.

If possible, utilize on a sporadic basis (i.e., Do not run five or six loads on Saturday and none the other days).

1. Think about minimizing the number of toilet flushes or installing low-flush toilets in new construction.
2. Preserve accurate records of the system’s placement and cleaning in a permanent house file so that this information may be handed on to the future owner.
3. Organize and adhere to an effective inspection and cleaning procedure.
4. – Check for leaks in faucets and other plumbing fixtures.
5. The quantity of daily flow that a well maintained system of that size can manage may be calculated based on the facts provided.
6. Create a system of instruction for your family on how to utilize it properly.

On-Site Sewage System (OSSF) Information and Requirements

View all of the information and requirements for occupational licensing and registration.

OSSF Licensing and Registration Overview

State Regulations:In order to work as an OSSF installation, apprentice, maintenance provider, or maintenance technician in Texas, you must be licensed or registered with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) prior to beginning work.

• DesignatedRepresentative License: This license must be issued by the TCEQ and must be used in conjunction with an authorized agent of the TCEQ. TCEQ-certified site inspectors conduct site evaluations (when it is part of their job duties), complaint investigations, system evaluations, and inspections of operating systems and software facilities that have been issued an authorization to construct in order to ensure that the OSSF’s installation meetsthe criteria established by the TCEQ, or by the Authorized Agent Order that has been approved by the TCEQ, whichever is more stringent
• Site EvaluatorLicense: Must be licensed by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) or have a Texas Professional Engineer license. He or she is authorized to conduct preconstruction site evaluations to determine the suitability of an existing or proposed OSSF system and to identify any features within or near the location where an OSSF system is to be installed that could be contaminated by the OSSF or that could interfere with the proper operation of the system. Septic tank installers are permitted to install standardOSSF systems, which include a variety of types of tanks and drainage systems such as absorption drainfields, unlined ET drainfields, leaching chambers, gravel-less pipe, and pumped effluent drainfields. Installer IILicense: a license that allows the holder to install all sorts of OSSF systems. ApprenticeRegistration: Approved to act as a representative of the supervisinginstaller on the project site However, they are only permitted to undertake OSSF installation services under the continual, direct supervision of a qualified installer, either on-site or by radio or other direct communication methods, as determined by the licensing authority. If there is no on-site supervision, the license installer must visit the project site at least once every day to ensure that the apprentice’s work is being completed in compliance with the requirements of the State or Authorized Agent. The maintenance technician registration program authorizes individuals to undertake activities related with OSSF maintenance, but only under the direct supervision and direction of the maintenance provider, either on-site or by direct connection with the maintenance provider
• And Aerobic treatment on-site disposal systems are covered by the Maintenance Providers License, which authorizes the provision of service or maintenance.

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OSSF Designated Representative License Requirements

• Educational Qualifications: There are no minimal educational requirements
• Work Experience: There are no work experience requirements

Training Course

TEEX is an OSSF-approved training program.

Application and Examination

• Submit an application and a fee ($111) to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality
• Applicants who have a Designated Representative application that has been granted or those who need to retest may do the following:

• You can either register for a computer-based test (CBT) or register to take a paper-based test.

Note It is not permissible for Licensed Individuals to conduct any Designated Representative tasks until they have been hired by an authorizedagent. Return to the top of the page

OSSF Site Evaluator License Requirements

• Educate yourself: there are no minimum educational qualifications. Job Experience: There are no prerequisites for work experience. Applicants must have at least one of the following qualifications:

• Current Installer II license
• Designated Representative license
• Texas Professional Engineer license
• Texas Professional Sanitarian license
• Certified Professional Soil Scientist
• Or Texas Professional Geoscientist license in the soil science discipline
• Texas Professional Soil Scientist certification
• Or Texas Professional Soil Scientist certification

Training Course

TEEX is an OSSF-approved training program.

Application and Examination

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OSSF Installer I License Requirements

• Educational Qualifications: There are no minimal educational requirements
• Work Experience: There are no work experience requirements

Training Course

Educational Qualifications: There are no minimal educational requirements; Work Experience: There are no work experience requirements.

Application and Examination

• Submit an application and a fee ($111) to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality
• The following options are available to applicants who have an approved Installer I application or who need to retest:

• You can either register for a computer-based test (CBT) or register to take a paper-based test.

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OSSF Installer II License Requirements

• Education: There are no minimal educational qualifications
• WorkExperience: There are no work experience requirements.

The applicant must be in possession of an OSSF Installer I license for at least one (1) year and present any of the following documents:

• For OSSF I to II, a sworn statement from either a designated representative who approved theinstallations or from three individuals for whom the applicant performed construction services (statements cannot be provided by individuals who are related by blood or marriage to the applicant or applicant’s spouse)
• Or, other documentation of the applicant’s work experience approved by the executive director.

Applicants who hold an Apprentice Registration must have had the registration for a minimum of two (2) years and provide one of the following documents –

• When applying for Apprentice to Installer II, you must submit an asworn statement from either an authorized representative who witnessed theinstallations or the installer for whom the applicant performed construction services, whichever is greater
• Or, alternative documentation of the applicant’s work experience that has been approved by the executivedirector.

Training Course

TEEX is an OSSF-approved training program.

Application and Examination – Registered for the Course on or before December 31, 2020

• Submit an application and a fee ($111) to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality
• The following options are available to applicants who have an approved Installer II application or those who need to retest:

• You can either register for a computer-based test (CBT) or register to take a paper-based test.

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OSSF Apprentice Registration Requirements

• Educational Qualifications: There are no minimal educational requirements
• Work Experience: There are no work experience requirements

Training Course

• Submit an application and a fee ($111) to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality

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OSSF Maintenance Technician Registration Requirements

• Educational Qualifications: There are no minimal educational requirements
• Work Experience: There are no work experience requirements

Training Course

The Texas On-Site Wastewater Association is a non-profit organization dedicated to the prevention and treatment of on-site wastewater.

Application

• Applicants must finish the training with TOWA (409-718-0645) before submitting an application to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. Submit an application and a fee ($111) to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality

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OSSF Maintenance Provider License Requirements

• Education: There are no minimal educational requirements
• Work Experience: There are no work experience requirements.

• Be in possession of a Class C or higher Wastewater Treatment Operator license
• And Be in possession of an OSSF Installer II license. possessing three (3) years of experience as a certified Maintenance Technician
• Or possessing previous to September 1, 2009, registration as a Maintenance Provider

Training Courses

The Texas On-Site Wastewater Association is a non-profit organization dedicated to the prevention and treatment of on-site wastewater.

• BasicMaintenance Provider (BMP) Course
• AdvancedAerobic Maintenance Provider (AMP) Course
• BasicMaintenance Provider (BMP) Course

Application and Examination

• Prior to submitting an application with the TCEQ, applicants must have completed the BMP course and be registered for the AMP course with TOWA (409-718-0645). The TCEQ requires that you submit an application and a fee ($111) at least 30 days ahead to the planned AMP course in order to be eligible to test at the completion of that course. The following options are available to applicants who do not intend to test at the completion of the AMP course and who have submitted an approved Maintenance Provider application, as well as those who require a RETEST:

• Take a Computer-Based Test (CBT) or a Paper-Based Test by registering online.

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OSSF Licensing Exemptions

For a complete list of exemptions, please see 30 TAC 30.244. Return to the top of the page

Renewal Requirements

Permits and registrations for occupations are valid for a period of three years. A renewal application and criminal background attestation, as well as payment of the renewal cost, must be submitted by candidates who have fulfilled the CErequirements (if applicable). A comprehensive list of details may be obtained on the newal website. In order to be eligible for renewal, all On-Site Sewage Facility licenses, with the exception of the Apprentice and Maintenance Technician registrations, must have completed 24 hours of Continuing Education (CE).

Hours of continuing education (CE) must be earned prior to the expiration of the license, and they may be earned at any time within the license’s active cycle.

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On-Site Sewage Facilities (Septic Systems)

Requirements for on-site sewage facilities in terms of permitting, maintenance, and construction (septic systems). Information for local governments interested in becoming authorized agents of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and administering the program. Information about how to file a formal complaint against these facilities may be found here.

HOTOn-Site Sewage Facility Rule Petition

Choosing, installing, and maintaining an on-site sewage facility are all things you should know (OSSF or septic system).

Information for Licensees

Find out how to receive training, pay fees, and renew your OSSF license if you already have one or would like to earn one in the near future.

Information for Regulators

Access information about licensed OSSF experts as well as goods that have been approved by the TCEQ, reporting information, and guidelines.

Getting a Permit for an On-Site Sewage Facility – Such as a Septic System

Allowing for the construction of on-site sewage facilities, such as septic tanks, pump-out stations, holding tanks, and transportation systems

Permitting Data for On-Site Sewage Facilities (Septic Systems)

Annual data reports on the types of on-site sewage facilities (OSSF) or septic systems that have been installed in each county and each year are available online.

NEWTexas On-Site Sewage Facility Grant Program (TOGP)

Requests for grant applications as well as the necessary application forms are made. UPDATEAlert: COVID19 OSSF Guidance has been released.

How to Inspect Septic Systems Course

Greetings and welcome to InterNACHI’s free, online course on How to Inspect Septic Systems. Objective:The purpose of this course is to instruct home inspectors on how to conduct a thorough inspection of a homeowner’s septic system. Following successful completion of the program, the student will be able to perform the following:

• The following are the steps to take when inspecting an onsite wastewater (septic) treatment system: do a preventative maintenance inspection
• Perform a functional examination
• And document the inspection results in a written report.

The following are included in the course:

• 30205 words
• 80 minutes of video
• Student book
• Inspection and writing assignment
• Research and writing assignment
• 60 quiz questions in 9 quizzes
• 50-question final exam (chosen from a wider pool)
• Quick marking
• A downloadable, printable Certificate of Completion

How to Inspect Septic Systems CourseCourse3502nachi.org/septic-course
Activity	Assignments	Estimated hours for the average student
Academic Engagement	Reading online course instructional material at 140 words per minute	3.6
Watching and listening to instructional video	1.3
Taking quizzes	1.9
Taking the exam	1.5
Conducting a directed and independent inspection study performed according to theStandards of Practice, including the development of an inspection report	4.0
Submitting an inspection and writing assignment	0.5
Submitting a research and writing assignment	0.5
Total	13.3
Preparation	Studying and reviewing instructional material in preparation for taking quizzes and exam	4.0
Reading the downloaded student course book including taking the quizzes with the book	3.0
Reading, research, and studying related to completing the research and writing assignment	4.0
Studying and preparing for inspection processes according to a Standards of Practice, including capturing and storing digital images with a camera or device, making observations, evaluating conditions, deducing, formulating opinions, communicating observations in written form, attaining competency in performing inspections and using an inspection checklist or software and other inspection tools in producing a report.	10.0
Total	21.0
	Sub Total	34.3
Overall Total		34.0 hours / 0.9 SCH

Also in keeping with InterNACHI’s commitment to Continuing Education, this septic system inspection course is accessible and free to all members, and it may be taken as many times as necessary without restriction or limitation. Members are reminded of the following: The Code of Ethics1.10 of InterNACHI demands that you abide by all applicable laws, regulations, and licensing requirements of the jurisdiction in which your company is conducted. InterNACHI’s courses and Standards of Practice are often more stringent than the Standards of Practice that you are expected to follow in your own country.

• The International Association of Certified Home Inspectors
• The Master Inspector Certification Board
• The International Association of Certified Indoor Air Consultants
• The Certified Commercial Property Inspectors Association
• And numerous government agencies and licensing boards are just a few of the organizations that exist.

The following categories are covered in the course:

• Introduction, Tools Required, General Information, Permission to Inspect, and Information Gathering Before the Inspection are all covered in this section. Examine the plumbing system in the house
• Identifying and locating the System’s components
• Examine the components of the system
• Maintenance inspections should be scheduled. Report to the Client
• Inspection Forms and Report
• Report to the Client a package including four sample septic inspection reports
• Sample Inspection Report
• Additional Suggestions for the Inspection Report
• Additional Suggested Comments for the Inspection Report Calculating tank volume, sewage flow rates, and septic system additives are all topics covered. Form for On-Site System Inspection
• On-site (septic) wastewater treatment systems are referred to by a variety of terms. Finally, a Homeowner’s Guide to Septic Systems is presented.

As soon as the student has completed this course and passed the 50-question final test (which is taken from a bigger pool of questions), they will be able to download and print their own Certificate of Completion, which will be created in their name automatically. The information about the student (an InterNACHI member) is stored on InterNACHI’s servers for the purpose of membership compliance verification, and the completion of the course is automatically noted in InterNACHI’s online Continuing Education log.

InterNACHI is the world’s leading inspection education organization.

InterNACHI® Members:

Take advantage of these and dozens of other InterNACHI® membership advantages by becoming a member right now. Some of the characteristics that distinguish InterNACHI’s courses from other continuing education alternatives are as follows:

• The course is provided at no cost to all InterNACHI members. The course is created entirely in XHTML code to ensure that it loads quickly. The course loads nicely on aging PCs and loads quickly even when using dial-up Internet access. The course is organized into sections by employing a hierarchical menu in conjunction with a sequential page navigation. In this way, students have the option of readily repeating regions where they are struggling. In this course, the student has the ability to start, pause, and resume any component of the course as many times as they like. It is illustrated with a range of pictures throughout the course, including schematics and drawings
• And photographs. By clicking on the drawings, you may make them larger and more visible for better viewing. The text has been incorporated into the Inspector Glossary maintained by InterNACHI. The definition of blue-colored words may be found by hovering your cursor over them. The final test consists of multiple-choice questions that are based on the graphics shown. The quizzes and final test in the course provide a number of advantages over traditional exam systems, including the following:

1. Integrated intelligence is used throughout the course, quizzes, and final exam to identify and enhance each student’s individual topic deficiencies
2. This includes: Additionally, not only is each question weighted in terms of its overall score, but each response is also weighted, with the correctness of each answer being weighted

1. Simple questions are weighted so that the learner is punished in terms of score if he or she answers erroneously, but is only moderately rewarded if he or she answers right. It is important to note that answers to tough questions are weighted in such a way that the student is rewarded in terms of score for answering properly, but not punished if they answer erroneously. Answers to questions about fundamental safety, or questions that any inspector should be able to answer, are weighted in such a way that the student is heavily punished in terms of his or her grade if the student answers erroneously.

• The student can print out a Certificate of Completion that is automatically created in their own name after completing the final test.

The information about the student (an InterNACHI member) is stored on InterNACHI’s servers for the purpose of membership compliance verification, and the completion of the course is automatically noted in InterNACHI’s online Continuing Education log.

InterNACHI® Members:

Take advantage of these and dozens of other InterNACHI® membership advantages by becoming a member right now.

Septic System Inspections – TexaSpec Inspections – TexaSpec Inspections – Serving the Greater Houston Metropolitan area. * – Home inspection – Realestate inspections – Commercial inspections – Foundation inspections – TRCC – Builders Inspections – County Inspections – Code Compliant InspectionsHouston – Texas – TX

Ifyou are new to septic systems rather than public sewer,there are some things that you will need to know. Manypeople have a pre-conception when it comes to septicsystems. They might have heard nightmare stories aboutseptic systems backing up and the things homeownershave had to go through to fix them. Not surprisingly,they might be a little “gun-shy” about buyinga home with a septic system in place. Septic systemsaren’t lawless, but neither are public sewer systems.It is always possible that you will have a blockagein your sewage drain lines. Thereare two basic types of septic systems. The systems thatmost people associate with are the older conventionalsystem style with the “lateral lines”. Thereis usually no mechanical device attached to these systems.Over time, the affluent (solids) break down and migratesinto the lateral lines where it leaches into the soil.You can often see these lateral lines in the dry summertimeas bright green streaks in the yard or fields. Thesecond type of system is the newest technology. Theseare called “aerobic” systems. These are actuallymini-wastewater treatment plants not unlike the hugeplants that might serve a city. The technology is reallyvery simple. In this system, the matter is broken downin two different tanks. The first tank is the settlingtank just like the tank on the older style systems.The material is broken down without oxygen and thenmoves from the first tank to the second tank. The secondtank has PVC drain line ran into the bottom of the tanksection which is attached to an air compressor, locatedon the surface. The air compressor constantly forcesoxygen into the tank, breaking down the matter “aerobically”or “with oxygen”. There is also a third tank,which is simply a holding tank. When the third tankreaches a certain height, a float switch activates thesprinkler pump which pumps the water out to the sprinklerlines and spray heads. Between the second and thirdtank is an exposed pipe which can be easily accessedfrom the surface. About once a month, chlorine tabletsare dropped into this pipe section. The treated waterslowly washes by the chlorine tablets and is chemicallysanitized. It should be noted that, septic chlorinetablets are NOT the same as swimming pool chlorine tablets. Ithas been stated by some in the industry that the watercoming out of a properly maintained aerobic septic systemis approximately 95% pure. You be the judge for yourselves.The water is dispersed onto the property just like aregular sprinkler system or sometimes a drip irrigationsystem. Bythe way, if you are looking at a home with the olderstyle system with lateral lines, don’t let that scareyou off. I have had more than one septic inspector tellme that they prefer the older systems because of theirsimplicity, minimal maintenance, and cost savings. Thereare virtually no moving parts to replace. If they areworking correctly, they are “out of sight and outof mind”. Bothtypes of septic systems are engineered before installationand inspected after they are installed, but only thenewer style aerobic systems require continual inspections.The technology “aerobic systems” require littlemaintenance, but when you have mechanical, moving parts,it is inevitable that something will eventually fail.The good news is that these systems are designed forquick repairs. It is usually nothing more than pullingup a sprinkler pump from a tank and dropping in a newone, replacing the small compressor at the surface,or cleaning or replacing a filter. The chlorine tabletsmust be added at intervals, but that is just droppingtablets into a tube. In the State of Texas, the aerobicseptic systems must be inspected 3-4 times a year bya licensed septic professional. This is a maintenanceprogram required by the State of Texas and is not anoptional. These companies charge about $150 to $200per year for the inspections, but if they find something,it must be repaired. Under current State changes inthe law, it is now possible for the homeowner to takea certification course on their particular brand ofseptic system and to perform the maintenance themselves.Check with the Texas Commission on Environmental Qualityor visit them at www.tceq.state.tx.us. Bothtypes of septic systems are recommended to be pumpedabout every three years. This will cost approximately$300 depending on the size of the septic tanks. Manyhomes with the conventional style systems have neverbeen touched or pumped and had no problems. I wouldsuggest to err on the side of caution and to pump yoursystem periodically for peace of mind. This is especiallytrue if you are purchasing a home with either type ofseptic systems. Ifyou’re buying a property that has a septic system, youwill want to have the system inspected by a Certifiedand State Licensed Inspector. CallTexaSpec Inspection at 281-370-6803 to schedule yourinspections.

Certification Requirements for Septic Tank Installation

A septic tank is a system that is meant to dispose of sewage in a safe manner. When sewage waste material is generated in rural regions, it is digested in a big tank by the action of anaerobic bacteria rather than being transported to a waste water treatment facility. The majority of septic tanks are built to function using a continuous flow approach and feature a two-part construction, with the top compartment used for settling sewage and the bottom compartment used for anaerobic disintegration of sludge in the lower compartment.

Homeowners normally need a permission to build a septic tank, and most jurisdictions require septic tank installers to be licensed or qualified in order to do the work.

Installer Certification or Licensing

Most states require that plumbers and other professionals who build or repair septic tanks be licensed or qualified before they can work on the system. A number of septic-system-related certifications are available in several states, including Texas. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality lists residential, commercial, and drip-emitter system certifications as examples of what may be obtained. Installation, cleaning/repair, and dismantling of septic tanks are all subject to separate certification requirements in some states.

Septic Tank Professional Exam

For septic tank specialists to be able to build or repair septic systems, they must often pass a rigorous examination. The subjects included in the test vary from state to state, but they often include the following: minimum site requirements for septic tank installation, building standards, suitable connections and venting, waste disposal, and safety concerns. Septic tank professional examinations often include a review of state legislation on the issue, including enforcement measures such as fines for establishing septic systems without a valid permit or permit number.

Septic System Business License

Septic tank specialists are normally needed to pass a lengthy exam in order to obtain a license to install or repair septic tanks. The subjects included in the test vary from state to state, but they typically include the following: minimum site requirements for septic tank installation, building standards, proper connections and venting, waste discharge, and safety concerns for septic tank installation. Septic tank professional examinations often include a review of state legislation on the issue, including enforcement elements such as fines for establishing septic systems without a valid permit or permit.

Septic Tank Installation Permit

Typically, septic tank specialists must pass a lengthy exam before they can be certified to install or repair septic systems. The subjects covered in the test vary from state to state, but they often include the following: minimum site requirements for septic tank installation, building standards, suitable connections and venting, waste disposal, and safety issues Sewage tank professional tests often address state legislation on the issue as well, including enforcement elements such as fines for constructing septic systems without a license.

Septic Real Estate Inspections: Why Such a Wide Variety?

If you phone around to different septic firms, you may find that there is a vast range of price as well as inspection processes to choose from. Because there are no septic inspection rules in Texas, this is the case. Yep! None! While there are various organizations that provide certificates, none of them are mandatory. Here’s a rundown of the credentials you could come across.

• Inspection Certification from the National Association of Wastewater Technicians (NAWT): The NAWT offers an inspection certification, which is the sole industry standard in the septic business. In order to conduct a more complete examination, this standard mandates that all tank lids be exposed, that the tanks be opened, and that the tanks be pumped. Home inspectors can obtain a TREC Certification (Texas Real Estate Commission) if they complete an inspection certification course. This inspection is fairly limited, and the inspector is not required to open or look into any septic tanks throughout the course of the examination. Septic Installer/Site Evaluator or Septic Designer who is licensed by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality: Inspections of septic systems are provided by septic installers
• However, because they lack extra qualifications or inspections in training, the inspection is subject to whatever notions the installer has about how to examine the system.

What criteria do you use to determine who to choose? It’s obviously a good idea to hire someone who has a septic system inspection certification (we recommend NAWT because the inspection standards are higher than TREC), but it’s even better if that inspector has previous experience in the septic system industry and is familiar with the regulations that apply to new installations. Buyer beware: just because someone possesses both of these does not imply that they will conduct the inspections in accordance with any standards, as none are needed.

Allow us to assist you in determining the sort of inspection you require for your specific property purchase and scenario.

We can assist you with any of your wastewater system needs, and our specialists can also assist you with your septic installation and maintenance requirements: 210.698.2000 (San Antonio) or 830.249.4000 (Austin) (Boerne).

How to Become a Licensed Septic System Contractor

What criteria do you use to determine who to pick? The use of an inspector who is certified in septic systems (we recommend NAWT because the inspection standards are higher than TREC) is obviously a good idea, but it’s even better if that inspector has previous experience in the septic system industry and is familiar with the regulations governing installation. Keep in mind that simply having both of these does not imply that the inspections are performed in accordance with any standard, as none is needed.

Helping you select the sort of inspection you require for your specific home purchase and scenario is our specialty.

Over the course of 80 years, Van Delden Wastewater Systems has proven itself to be the premier Wastewater System provider, supplying San Antonio, Boerne, and the neighboring Texas Hill Country with services you can rely on today and in the future.

Minimum Certification Requirements

For septic contractors to be certified in states that demand it, candidates must be at least 18 years old, submit a completed application for certification, complete the appropriate amount of classroom instruction hours, and pass either a written or an oral certification examination. Plumbing services for septic systems are allowed in some areas, such as Florida, if the plumber is licensed by the state. In addition to completing the licensure criteria, mechanical competence, as well as customer service and business abilities, are required for this position.

Septic Contractor Exam

A professional license or certification, as opposed to a business license, which permits a person to lawfully run a business, demonstrates that a contractor is informed about the regulations and laws governing his or her field of competence. Where state and local governments require septic system contractors to be licensed, passing the licensing exam demonstrates that a contractor has extensive experience, is proficient, and is qualified in the field of septic system installation and repair. According to state rules and federal regulations controlling private sewage disposal, inquiries in Illinois, for example, are based on these restrictions.

Additional Governmental Requirements

Although some states, such as Minnesota, do not need septic contractors to hold local licenses in addition to their state licenses, other states, such as New York, do require them to. In that situation, a contractor must first get the necessary permissions and become familiar with the local rules before beginning work on a project in that city or town. Contractors are expected to pay all necessary license and permit costs as well as provide proof of general liability insurance to the City of Chicago.

While state licensing boards have the authority to withhold certification if an applicant is found guilty of misbehavior, misrepresenting information, or breaching state laws, it is often the responsibility of local governments to ensure that the standards are followed.

Continuing Education

Septic contractors who wish to maintain their licenses must complete continuing education (CE) hours in addition to the credit hours required for them to sit for and pass the licensure test and become certified in many states, including North Carolina. Despite the fact that jurisdictions choose their own renewal dates, licensing authorities often need a specific amount of continuing education credits in order to renew certification. Contractors who wish to get credit for continuing education courses must provide confirmation that they have completed the requisite number of hours of authorized coursework.

Texas Septic Tank Requirements

Photograph courtesy of Valerie Loiseleux/E+/Getty Images.

In This Article

• Site evaluation for a septic tank
• Types of septic systems
• Do-it-yourself (DIY) septic tank installation
• Septic Tank Permits

In Texas, they say that everything is larger, and this is certainly true in terms of septic tank standards. To have an aseptic tank constructed in the Lone Star State, you’ll have to go through a number of hoops, including site inspections, permits, and permitted installation processes, to name just a few of them. If you’re building a home on the range, here are some things to bear in mind while establishing a septic system: Making sure you have the right permits in place before constructing a new septic tank or updating an existing one is the first step to taking care of business.

There are, however, certain exceptions to this rule.

• In order to qualify, the tank must serve a single-family dwelling located on a property with a minimum of 10 acres in size (and this residence might be the sole residence on the site)
• The tank must not be a source of public nuisance or harm groundwater. Neither the tank nor the property can be more than 100 feet apart from each other. The tank is unable to dispose of the wastewater on the land
• As a result,

Emergency septic tank repairs are another exemption, and they are not required to get a permit in this case. Even if you complete the repairs within 72 hours after starting them, you must still submit them to the appropriate permitting authorities. In addition to the state criteria, licenses issued by local authorities may be subject to more strict regulations.

Grandfathered Septic Tank Systems

If the following conditions are satisfied, a house septic tank in Texas may be grandfathered and exempt from some regulatory procedures, depending on the circumstances:

• The system must have been installed before to September 1, 1989, or prior to the establishment of an authorized installation program by a local dealer The tank must be equipped with a treatment and disposal system. The tank is not being utilized to treat a bigger volume of sewage than it was when it was initially constructed.

Septic Tank Site Evaluation

Since September 2002, the state of Texas has mandated a site review of any place where a septic tank system will be constructed before it will allow the system to be implemented. The suitable evaluation may only be carried out by a licensed site evaluator or a qualified professional engineer who are both licensed. A septic system evaluation is performed to evaluate the soil quality, including percolation rates, groundwater levels, and other characteristics that will be used to identify which septic system is most appropriate for the site’s conditions.

Evaporative-transpiration (E-T) systems, for example, are acceptable for the vast majority of installations, provided that the slope of the field does not exceed 30 percent.

Mound systems, low-pressure dosing, absorptive drain fields, and leaching chambers are all subject to the same limits and criteria as the others.

Consider the results of your site evaluation to determine groundwater levels, rock horizons, and minimum depths, which will aid you in selecting the appropriate system.

DIY Septic Tank Installation

Under Texas law, it is permissible to construct your own septic system. Certain systems, on the other hand, cannot be marketed to individual property owners and must instead be sold through manufacturing representatives. Additional requirements include that if you pay for any work done by contractors while installing the tank yourself, the contractors must be licensed to do so by the State of Texas. One such instance would be the hire of a contractor to dig a hole for the installation of the septic tank.

Frequently Asked Questions about Septic Systems

To read more about the many types of septic systems, including: click here.

• System types that are conventional include passive systems with drainfields, gravelled or stone systems, chambered system leachfields, low-pressure dosing systems, evapotranspiration systems, and aerobic wastewater treatment systems.

Questions Applicable to All Types of Septic Systems

Is it necessary for me to seek a permit in order to repair my septic system? Yes. Repairing any form of septic system in Texas requires a permit that has been granted by the state, with limited exceptions. In order to ensure that the individual performing the repairs has sufficient expertise and knows the proper methods and protocols for fixing the system, this law was enacted. Environmental protection, as well as the protection of the homeowner and his neighbors, are the goals of the law. What is the procedure for getting a permit for a repair or an installation?

1. The kind of soil, the location of the system in relation to creeks, rivers, lakes, and property lines, as well as the type of septic system to be repaired or rebuilt, as well as the installation or repair plan, are all taken into consideration in the permit application.
2. In light of the possible problems associated with acquiring permits, the majority of service providers ask that the homeowner complete and submit the application on their behalf.
3. Is it safe to flush toilet paper down the toilet?
4. Based on the number of bedrooms in the house, the size of the holding tank is determined.
5. Because of this, using toilet paper should not pose an issue as long as the system is not needed to process more wastewater than it was designed to manage.
6. This answer is dependent on the size of the system as well as the amount of individuals that are utilizing the system to provide it.

	Household size (number of people)
	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9+
Tank Size (gallons)	Duration (in years) Between Pumpings or Inspections
1, 750	19.1	14.2	12.6	1.8	1.3	1.0	0.7	0.6	0.4
1,000	12.4	15.9	13.7	2.6	2.0	1.5	1.2	1.0	0.8
1,250	15.6	17.5	14.8	3.4	2.6	2.0	1.7	1.4	1.2
1,500	18.9	19.1	15.9	4.2	3.3	2.6	2.1	1.8	1.5
1,750	22.1	10.7	16.9	5.0	3.9	3.1	2.6	2.2	1.9
2,000	25.4	12.4	18.1	5.9	4.5	3.7	3.1	2.6	2.2
2,250	28.6	14.0	19.1	6.7	5.2	4.2	3.5	3.0	2.6
2,500	31.9	15.6	10.2	7.5	5.9	4.8	4.0	3.5	3.0

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality contributed the information in the table above. Is it necessary for me to add any supplements to my system? The majority of the time, additives are not required to keep a well functioning septic system running. However, there are occasions when a system becomes overwhelmed with organic material, and the enzymes and bacteria found in additives might actually be beneficial. The possibility of this occurring arises when a system is temporarily forced to process more garbage than it was designed to handle, as in the case of repeated big parties or an influx of guests for a prolonged period of time.

Your service provider is the best person to assess whether or not you require these supplements.

Flooding Related Questions Applicable to All Types of Septic Systems

Water overflowing from a traditional drain field might cause a septic system to flood if the field has been saturated by rain or rising stream, creek, or river water. Flooding happens in an aerobic system when the aerobic tanks become overflowing with runoff rain water and the system ceases to operate. In any instance, the first indicator that there is a problem is generally the fact that the toilets are no longer flushing correctly. In addition, because shower and bath drains are typically positioned at the lowest gravity point in the home, raw sewage may back up into these drains first.

1. If at all possible, avoid using the system when the drain field or tanks are completely submerged in water. It is unlikely that the wastewater will be cleansed, and it will instead become a source of pollution. Conserve water to the greatest extent feasible while the system strives to recover itself and the water table drops. Make every effort to keep silt from entering the pump chamber if you have an aerobic septic system (with electric pumps). The presence of silt in the pump chamber after flooding causes it to settle, which might block the drainfield or harm the pump if it is not removed before flooding occurs. When opening the septic tank for pumping when the earth is still damp, proceed with caution and extreme caution. Mud and silt may find their way into the tank and end up in the drain field. In addition, pumping out a tank that is resting in moist soil may cause the tank to “jump out” of the earth as it is being removed. Because the earth may not have entirely settled and compacted, newer systems are more prone to pop out than older systems. While the land is still wet or flooded, it is not recommended to dig into the tank or drainfield area. Try to avoid operating any heavy gear near the drainfield or tanks while they are wet, since they are particularly prone to harm while they are flooded. This type of action has the potential to permanently impair the soil’s capacity to transmit fluids. When the septic tank is flooded, it frequently removes the floating crust of fats and oils that has formed on top of the tank. Some of this muck may float to the surface and plug the outflow tee partly. First and foremost, if your septic system is backing up into your home, check for blockages in the tank’s outflow. Clean up any floodwater that has accumulated in the house without dumping it into the sink or toilet, and give the water time to recede before continuing. Floodwaters in a house that are later pushed through or pumped through the septic tank will generate greater than typical flow rates through the system as a result of the flooding. As a result, the likelihood of an outlet tee being clogged increases considerably. Avoid coming into contact with any electric pump or equipment that may have been submerged during the flood unless the device has been thoroughly cleaned and dried. Mud and silt may have blocked aerobic systems, upflow filters, trickling filters, and other media filters, causing them to get clogged. Prior to restarting the system, these systems will need to be washed, scraped, and otherwise cleaned
2. And

What should I do once the floodwaters have receded from my home?

1. If you have an in-ground well, wait until the water has been tested by your county health agency before drinking it. Please refrain from making use of your sewer system until the water level in your soil absorption field is lower than any water level everywhere else in your home. If you feel that your septic tank has been damaged, you should get it professionally inspected and maintained. Damage can be detected by the presence of apparent settling or settlement of the ground above the tank, as well as the incapacity of the system to absorb extra water. Because most septic systems are below ground and entirely protected, flooding does not do significant harm to them. Septic tanks and pump chambers, on the other hand, can get clogged with silt and dirt, necessitating their cleaning. A new system may be required if the soil absorption field becomes clogged with silt due to the fact that there is no practical means to clear up the buried lines in an absorption field. In order to avoid the risk of harmful gases and germs being released into the environment, get your tanks fixed or cleaned by skilled professionals. Cleaning and disinfecting the basement floor should be done if sewage has backed up into the space. A chlorine solution containing half a cup of chlorine bleach per gallon of water should be used.

Questions Specific to Aerobic Wastewater Treatement Systems

What is the process for renewing my Aerobic System maintenance contract? Upon installation, each aerobic system is accompanied with a complimentary two-year maintenance contract, which begins the day after the installation procedure is complete. The installation business is first responsible for providing this service. Because most systems are reasonably simple to maintain during their first two years of operation, several installers do not provide maintenance services after that initial two-year period.

• Every year after you sign a maintenance contract with Septic Solutions, your agreement will be automatically renewed.
• The homeowner is responsible for all costs related with maintenance, chlorine, and pumping (as needed) of the pool.
• Our customers may select the contract that is most appropriate for their needs.
• The following activities are carried out during a normal maintenance visit: This will differ depending on the service provider.
• Aside from that, we also examine the amount of sludge in your holding tank.
• What role do the air and water pumps play in an aerobic system, and how significant are they?
• The air pump is used to aerate the wastewater and speed up the breakdown processes in the wastewater treatment plant.

If one of these systems fails to function correctly, the wastewater will become septic.

Is the water that is released from an aerobic system safe to consume?

Before the water is sprayed via the spray field, it is treated to destroy or eradicate germs, and then it is discharged again.

How much does chlorine cost on an annual basis?

We give our clients the option of installing a Smart=Chlor Liquid Chlorinator, which may be run at a far lower cost of chlorine than a traditional liquid chlorinator.

The most common causes of aerobic system odors are: 1) an excessive amount of chemicals being introduced into the system, 2) the presence of a restriction in the air supply, 3) more wastewater being introduced into the system than the system was designed to handle, and 4) an insufficient supply of disinfectant.

When should I add chlorine to my water?

You should keep an eye on your system to ensure that there are always a minimum of 2-3 chlorine pills in the tube at any one moment.

According to Texas law, homeowners are permitted to maintain their own wastewater systems if they have completed a 6-hour, state-approved Basic Wastewater Operations Course, passed the state test, obtained a Class D Wastewater Certificate, and obtained a certification from the manufacturer of their specific wastewater system.

Given the time commitments required to obtain a certificate, the inherent unpleasantness of checking sludge levels, and the requirement that only licensed septic providers perform all necessary repairs, the majority of customers prefer to have their system’s maintenance performed under contract with a certified sewer contractor.

Questions Specific to Non-Aerobic Wastewater Systems

What is the best way to determine the source of a problem with my non-aerobic septic system? On our website, we provide a diagnostic tool that will assist you in identifying the portion of your system that is causing the problem. Septic Solutions of Texas retains ownership of the copyright and reserves all rights.