Septic in Paris, VA

Welcome to Paris, Virginia—where country roads, friendly neighbors, and practical home care go hand in hand. If you peek behind most yards along the rural blocks, you'll find a septic system quietly doing its job, far from the reach of any city sewer line. I'm a local septic contractor who knows Paris homes inside and out, and I'm glad you're here for straightforward, down-to-earth guidance you can trust.

Is septic common in Paris? Should I expect septic if I own or buy a home? Yes—septic systems are the norm for many Paris-area properties. Unless you're in a development hooked to public sewer, your home likely relies on an on-site system. If you're buying, treat your septic as a key part of the real estate due diligence: ask for the last pumping date, the tank type and size, the drain-field condition, and any county or health-department records. Plan for regular maintenance: most households pump every 3–5 years, keep heavy equipment off the drain field, and watch for signs of trouble like slow drains or odors.

Why homes typically use septic systems in Paris

• Rural layout and sewer coverage: Much of Paris isn't connected to a centralized sewer, so on-site systems are the practical norm.
• Soil and site conditions: Drain fields rely on good soil; hills, rocks, or high water tables can call for alternative designs.
• Cost and practicality: Extending sewer lines across large lots is expensive and disruptive to use of the property.
• Regulation and maintenance: Local health departments regulate septic design and installation, and routine pumping and inspections help systems last.

High-level explanation (why septic exists here)

Septic systems exist here because our area balances private lots, natural soils, and the reality that not every property can be tied into a city sewer. A well-designed system uses a tank to separate solids, then a drain field in suitable soil to absorb and treat the liquid. When the site and design fit, the system can perform for decades with proper pumping and care. Local conditions—soil types, groundwater, and weather patterns—shape how we design, install, and maintain these systems.

As your neighbor and a pro, I'm here to help you keep your Paris system healthy. Small, consistent habits—proper use, regular inspections, and timely pumping—make a big difference.

Below you'll find practical tips and common questions that Paris homeowners often ask.

Where Septic Systems Are Common in Paris

Rural and semi-rural parcels outside public sewer footprint

• Paris, VA is largely rural, so many homes rely on on-site septic systems rather than a municipal sewer connection.
• You'll see septic on 1- to 3-acre lots, farmettes, and property lines where extending a sewer main isn't economical or feasible.
• Even some homes in lightly developed neighborhoods use septic because public sewer isn't available within easy reach.
• Short paragraphs, easy-to-skim bullets help homeowners spot the pattern: private wastewater disposal is the norm where central sewer isn't present or practical.

Soil and site factors shaping septic use in Paris

• Soils matter. Well-drained soils (loams and sandy loams) support typical septic drain fields better than clay-heavy, poorly draining soils.
• Water table and bedrock influence design. Very shallow groundwater or shallow bedrock may require mound or alternative system designs.
• Slopes and drainage influence where a system can be placed. Steep or rocky lots may limit drain-field size and installation options.
• In Paris, the mix of soil types and terrain means some properties are ideal for standard systems, while others need special designs or closer engineering scrutiny.

Older neighborhoods and new installations

• Older parts of Paris and surrounding rural subdivisions often rely on septic because centralized sewer lines were not installed when homes were built.
• Newer homes that aren't tied to a public sewer main still use septic, especially in fringe areas where extending sewer would be costly.
• When new homes are built on septic, owners typically work with a licensed designer to choose the right system for the site's soil and capacity needs.
• Maintenance patterns tend to be similar across areas: regular pumping, careful water use, and avoidance of non-flushable items help keep the system functioning.

How to tell if your Paris property uses septic

1. Check your property records or deed for a septic permit or installation note.
2. Look for visible system components in the yard—vent pipes, cleanouts, or a buried tank lid in the drain field area.
3. Ask the local health department or county staff about the system on your parcel.
4. If you're buying or renovating, hire a licensed septic inspector to evaluate the current system and its age.

Quick steps for proper maintenance (homeowner-friendly)

• Pump every 3–5 years on average, or as recommended for your system and household size.
• Minimize water usage and fix leaks to reduce load on the drain field.
• Protect the drain field: keep heavy equipment and trees off it; avoid parking vehicles on the area.
• Use septic-friendly products and dispose of fats, oils, and non-biodegradable items properly.
• Schedule regular inspections after major changes (adding a bathroom, renovating, or expanding a home).

Official resources

• Virginia Department of Health – Onsite Sewage Systems: https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/environmental-health/onsite-sewage/
• United States Environmental Protection Agency – Septic Systems: https://www.epa.gov/septic

Septic vs Sewer: What Homeowners in Paris Should Know

Quick reality check

In Paris, rural Fauquier County, you'll most often see households on septic systems rather than municipal sewer. Septic and sewer are not just a technique difference; they shape costs, maintenance responsibilities, and long-term planning. Knowing which apply to your home helps you budget, avoid penalties, and protect your family and your soil.

How a septic system and a sewer connection work (Virginia basics)

• Septic system:
  • A two-part setup: a septic tank that collects and partially treats wastewater, and a drain field (soil absorption area) where liquids percolate into the ground.
  • Your home's waste is treated on-site; the county health department may require inspections and pumping records.
• Public sewer:
  • Wastewater is transported to a municipal treatment plant through a network of pipes.
  • Homeowners pay a sewer bill, and the city or county handles maintenance and upgrades.
• Visual clues:
  • On a septic system, you'll likely find a buried tank lid in the yard and a drain field area (often behind or to the side of the house).
  • On a property connected to sewer, you won't have a drain field; you'll see a service lateral and a sewer main stub at your street.

Paris, VA specifics: local considerations

• Availability varies by neighborhood. Some Paris-area homes are served by a municipal sewer district, others rely on on-site septic.
• If sewer is available, connecting may involve a one-time connection fee, impact fees, and an inspection by the local health department or public works.
• If staying on septic, you'll need to follow Virginia requirements for tank sizing, setbacks, and drain-field location, with regular pumping and inspections.

Maintenance basics that save you headaches

• Pump every 3–5 years (or as recommended by your installer) and keep pump records.
• Use water efficiently: spread out laundry, install high-efficiency fixtures, and avoid new large non-degradable loads.
• Protect the drain field: keep heavy equipment off the area, avoid planting trees or shrubs with deep roots nearby, and divert surface water away from the drain field.
• Common warning signs: slow drains, gurgling toilets, wet or lush spots over the drain field, or sewage odors.

If trouble hits

• Do not flush wipes, grease, solvents, or chemicals into the system.
• Call a licensed septic contractor or the local health department for a diagnosis and a care plan.
• Early action can prevent expensive damage or contamination of groundwater.

Practical steps: connect to sewer or maintain septic (numbered)

1. Confirm service status: contact Fauquier County Public Works or the local health district to verify sewer availability and any required permits.
2. Compare costs: initial connection fees versus ongoing septic pumping and replacements.
3. Get professional assessments: a septic inspection or a sewer readiness assessment from a licensed pro.
4. Develop a plan: choose to connect or to upgrade/maintain septic with a maintenance schedule.

Resources

• EPA: Septic Systems –
• Virginia Cooperative Extension: Septic System Basics –

Typical Septic System Types in Paris

Conventional septic systems

• What they are: The most common residential setup—a buried septic tank connected to a drainfield that disperses clarified effluent into the soil.
• How they work in Paris: Soils in many parts of Fauquier County can support conventional systems, but pockets of shallow bedrock, high groundwater, or dense clay require site-specific design.
• Typical components: septic tank, distribution box, and a drainfield (gravity or shallow-bed trenches).
• Pros and cons:
  • Pros: generally lower upfront cost, straightforward operation, widely understood by installers.
  • Cons: performance hinges on soil conditions and regular maintenance; failed soils can require alternative designs.

Alternative drainfield options common in Paris-area soils

• Mound systems (raised drainfields)
  • When to use: shallow soil, high water table, or restrictive underlying soils.
  • How they work: a pre-engineered bed sits above the native soil with import soil and raised pipes to promote treatment and absorption.
  • Notes: require more land area and ongoing maintenance; permits and design must come from the local health department.
• Sand filters and engineered treatment beds
  • When to use: soils with limited ability to treat effluent in a drainfield.
  • How they work: a secondary treatment bed uses sand or specialized media to improve effluent quality before absorption.
  • Notes: higher upfront cost, but can enable system functioning in tougher soils.
• Pressure distribution/LPD (low-pressure dose) drainfields
  • When to use: uneven soils or limited drainfield frontage.
  • How they work: small doses are evenly distributed across multiple trenches to maximize absorption.
  • Notes: often paired with conventional tanks but designed for challenging soils.
• Chamber systems and modular drainfields
  • When to use: easier installation, sometimes better soil loading distribution.
  • How they work: prefabricated plastic chambers replace traditional gravel trenches, increasing usable area.
  • Notes: still requires appropriate soil conditions and professional design.

Aerobic Treatment Units (ATUs) and other advanced treatment options

• What they are: On-site systems that mechanically aerate and treat wastewater before it reaches the drainfield.
• Why consider them: useful when soil conditions are poor or lot size limits traditional drainfields.
• Maintenance: require electricity, routine servicing, and regular effluent monitoring; a licensed service provider is essential.
• Where they fit: typically used when a more robust treatment is needed to meet local performance standards.
• Resources: general information about ATUs and advanced on-site treatment can be found at EPA (

Holding tanks and other non-standard options

• When they're used: in cases where a drainfield cannot be installed or is temporarily unavailable.
• What to expect: no long-term treatment in soil; requires regular pumping and regulations from the local health authority.
• Planning: not a substitute for a durable, soil-based system and typically used only under specific conditions and permits.

Quick-start steps for Paris homeowners

1. Get a soils evaluation and site assessment completed by a licensed professional.
2. Check with the local health department (VDH Fauquier and statewide Onsite Sewage programs) to determine permissible system types for your parcel. Official resources: Virginia Department of Health Onsite Sewage (and Fauquier page (
3. Obtain any necessary permits and an approved design before installation.
4. Hire a licensed septic contractor familiar with Paris-area soils and local codes.
5. Establish a maintenance plan: regular pumping, inspection intervals, and keeping records for your system type (conventional, ATU, mound, etc.).

Official resources

• EPA: Septic Systems (general guidance) —

Common Septic Issues in Paris

1) Tank overfill and drainfield saturation

• Signs to look for: slow drains, toilets backing up, gurgling sounds in plumbing, frequent need to pump sooner than expected.
• What causes it: solids build up in the tank when pumping is skipped or delayed; improper disposal (grease, coffee grounds, wipes) adds more solids; heavy water use from large households or frequent laundry can push solids into the drainfield.
• Paris-specific factors: many homes here have older septic designs and clay soils with limited drainage; after heavy rains, the water table can rise and saturate the drainfield, accelerating failure.
• Quick actions (when you notice signs):
  1. Have a licensed septic pumper inspect and pump the tank if needed.
  2. Ask for a tank and baffle inspection; confirm there are no cracks.
  3. Reduce water use and stagger laundry/dishwasher loads.
  4. Avoid flushing grease, wipes, and non-septic products.
• Longer-term fixes: consider upgrading components, reducing load, or expanding/rehabilitating the drainfield if the site allows.

2) Drainfield failure from roots and soil limitations

• Signs: damp or lush patches above the drainfield, persistent odors near the septic area, surface surfaces of wet soil that won't dry.
• Root intrusion: tree or shrub roots can invade laterals and distribution boxes, clogging conduits and choking drainage.
• Paris-specific factors: many parcels have mature landscaping and trees; clay-rich soils, shallow bedrock, or high seasonal moisture can compound root and soil problems.
• What to do:
  1. Have a septic professional check for root intrusion and damaged lines.
  2. If roots are present, remove or trench back from the lines and install root barriers if feasible.
  3. Consider drainfield expansion, alternate designs (e.g., mound system) or replacing with a more suitable site layout.
  4. Keep trees at a safe distance from the system and limit heavy landscape changes over the drainfield.
• Maintenance tip: prohibit parking or heavy equipment over the drainfield to prevent compaction.

3) Odors, backups, and pump failures

• Common triggers: a failing pump, damaged effluent filter, or broken from-line baffles allowing solids to move into the drainfield.
• Paris-specific concerns: pumps and compact systems are used in some older or smaller lots; a failed pump can cause immediate backups in sinks and toilets, with odors near the tank area.
• What to check:
  1. Inspect the pump chamber for burning smells, unusual noises, or failure to pump.
  2. Replace blocked or degraded effluent filters and ensure all access lids seal properly.
  3. Confirm electrical connections and control switches are functioning.
  4. Schedule a full system evaluation if backups persist after pumping.
• Actionable step: engage a licensed professional to diagnose and replace faulty components.

4) Soil/site limitations and percolation challenges

• What this looks like: drains that drain slowly or not at all, surface pooling after rainfall, or drainfield area staying unusually wet.
• Why it matters in Paris: clay soils, variable depth to bedrock, and seasonal groundwater fluctuations reduce the soil's ability to treat effluent.
• Remedies:
  1. Conduct a formal site evaluation to determine if the current system matches the site.
  2. If necessary, upgrade to a more suitable design (e.g., mound, sand-lined trench, or alternate-use system).
  3. Implement rainfall management around the drainfield to prevent oversaturation.
• Preventive habit: keep the drainfield clear of impermeable surfaces and avoid irrigation directly over the area.

5) Improper waste disposal and chemical use

• Problems caused: flushable wipes, heavy grease, solvents, and certain cleaners disrupt helpful bacteria and clog pipes.
• Paris-context note: homes with older or smaller systems are more sensitive to surges in solids and chemical load.
• Best practices:
  1. Treat septic systems as a living ecosystem—flush only human waste and toilet paper.
  2. Use septic-safe products and limit chemical cleaners that enter the system.
  3. Schedule routine maintenance and avoid dumping oils or chemicals down drains.
• Monitoring tip: periodic professional inspections help catch issues before they become failures.

Official resources:

• Virginia Department of Health – Office of Onsite Sewage (VDH OSE):
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency – Septic Systems:

Septic Inspection, Permits & Local Oversight

Who regulates septic systems in Paris, VA?

• In Virginia, onsite sewage systems are overseen by the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) through local health districts. Fauquier County Health Department administers onsite sewage permits, inspections, and design approvals in Paris, under the VDH framework. Official information:

Permitting process (step-by-step)

1. Pre-permit site evaluation
2. A licensed onsite soil evaluator assesses soil characteristics to determine what kind of system will work and where it can be installed.
3. They'll identify best locations, setbacks, and potential constraints (water wells, streams, property lines).
4. System design
5. A licensed septic designer creates a plan that meets VDH requirements and your property's constraints.
6. The plan shows trench layout, tank size, absorption area, and mechanicals.
7. Permit application
8. Submit the design package to the Fauquier County Health Department (or your local health department). Include soil report, site plan, and required forms.
9. Expect a review period; officials may ask for clarifications or additional information.
10. Permit issuance
11. Once approved, you'll receive an Onsite Sewage System Permit or equivalent permit to proceed with installation.
12. Scheduling and installation
13. Hire a licensed installer to install the system according to the approved plan.
14. Inspections are required at key milestones during construction.
15. Inspections during installation
16. Typical milestones include: pre-backfill inspection (before trenches are buried), final installation inspection, and any required testing.
17. Inspections verify proper setbacks, correct trenching, tank placement, piping, and backfill according to the approved design.
18. Final inspection and as-built
19. A final inspection ensures the system is functioning as designed.
20. You'll receive an as-built drawing documenting the final layout and components, which should be kept for maintenance and future work.

Inspection expectations and how to prepare

• Pre-construction: Have the approved plan, site plan, and soil evaluation on hand; confirm access for inspectors.
• During installation: Ensure all work follows the permit plan, including trench widths, pipe slopes, risers, lids, and pump chambers. Have equipment access clear and any required tests ready.
• Post-installation: Ensure the as-built drawing matches reality; confirm that cover materials and landscaping conform to plan to avoid future conflicts.
• If any changes are needed: Contact the health department promptly to request plan amendments and a permit modification.

Local oversight, permits & common homeowner questions

• Do I always need a permit for repairs? Most repairs or replacements to an existing onsite system require a permit and a re-inspection to ensure safety and compliance.
• What about well setbacks and property zoning? Setbacks from wells, streams, and property lines are enforced to protect water quality and public health; confirm with the local health department and planning office before digging or expanding.
• Can I DIY parts of the project? Installation and alterations typically require licensed professionals and must follow the approved plan and permit conditions; unpermitted work can lead to fines or required removal.
• How long does the process take? Timeline varies by county workload, plan complexity, and whether redesigns are needed. Start early and maintain good communication with the health department.

Resources

• Virginia Department of Health – Onsite Sewage Program: https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/environmental-health/onsite-sewage/
• Fauquier County Government (general info and contacts): https://www.fauquiercounty.gov/

Septic Maintenance for Homes in Paris

Paris-specific conditions to know

• Soils in parts of Fauquier County can be heavy clay with variable percolation and shallow bedrock. This affects how quickly effluent leaves the tank and is absorbed by the drain field.
• Many Paris homes have mature tree corridors. Tree roots can intrude on drain fields and damage piping, reducing system performance.
• Seasonal rainfall and transient floods in some years can saturate drain fields, slowing absorption and increasing the risk of backups if the system is already near capacity.
• Some households rely on private wells; protecting groundwater is essential. Regular pumping and avoiding contaminants near the drain field help keep wells safer.

Regular maintenance basics

• Pumping frequency
  • Typical households with a conventional septic system should target pumping every 3 years, but adjust based on household size, water use, and whether you have a garbage disposal.
  • If you have a mound or sand filter, or use a grinder pump, pumping needs may differ. Rely on your septic contractor's recommendations.
• Annual inspections
  • Have a licensed septic professional inspect the tank, baffles, inlet/outlet pipes, and the distribution box at least once a year.
  • Check for standing water on the drain field, strong odors, gurgling sounds, or wet areas in the yard—these can signal trouble early.
• Water use and appliances
  • Space out heavy water use (dishwashers, laundry) to limit peak loads on the system.
  • Fix leaks promptly and install high-efficiency fixtures to reduce unnecessary water entering the tank.
  • Only septic-safe products should enter the system; avoid chemical drain cleaners, solvents, or flushable wipes.

Pumping and inspections schedule

1. Schedule a certified septic contractor to pump the tank before solids approach one-third of the tank volume. This lengthens tank life and protects the drain field.
2. After pumping, obtain a written inspection report noting tank condition, baffles, and any needed repairs, and keep it with your home records.
3. Reassess your pumping interval if household size changes, you add a bathroom, or you install a garbage disposal.

Drainfield protection and landscaping

• Keep heavy machinery and vehicle traffic off the drain field; compaction damages soil and roots.
• Plant only shallow-rooted grasses over the field. Avoid trees or large shrubs whose roots seek out moisture and nutrients from the drain area.
• Create a clear setback zone: minimize irrigation near the field and divert downspouts away from the drain field.
• Clean gutters and downspouts so water is directed away from the drain field area.

Seasonal maintenance tips for Paris homes

• Spring
  • Inspect for wet spots after snowmelt or heavy rains; clear surface debris that could impede infiltration.
  • Check for wildlife or pet activity near the field that could disturb soil or compact the area.
• Summer
  • Monitor drainage and avoid planting close to the drain field; keep root systems in check.
  • Conserve water to prevent overloading the system during peak outdoor use.
• Fall
  • Reel back yard work from the drain field and ensure fallen leaves don't accumulate and block soil pores.
• Winter
  • Keep the drain field accessible for occasional checks; avoid heavy parking on snow or ice over the field.

Troubleshooting and early warning signs

• Warning signs
  • Slow drains, frequent backups, toilets gurgling, or a strong sewer odor in the house.
  • Green, lush patches over the field that don't respond to normal lawn care can indicate effluent reaching the surface.
• Immediate steps
  • Stop using water-intensive appliances for a day or two.
  • Schedule a professional inspection promptly if you notice persistent issues.

When to call a professional

• If you notice persistent odors, wet spots in the yard, or sewage backup.
• If you've recently experienced heavy rainfall and the system hasn't recovered after several days.
• If you're unsure about where your drain field is or how close it sits to trees and structures.

Resources

• Virginia Department of Health – Onsite Sewage Program:
• Virginia Cooperative Extension – Septic System Maintenance Guides:

Cost Expectations for Septic Services in Paris

Routine septic pumping and cleaning

• What this service includes:
  • Removing accumulated sludge and scum from the septic tank, inspecting tank integrity and baffles, and ensuring lids and risers are accessible.
  • Paris-specific considerations: many Paris-area homes sit on older, sometimes smaller tanks (often 1,000–1,500 gallons) with limited access from driveways or under decks; mud or uneven ground can affect access and scheduling.
• Typical cost in Paris:
  • Range: approximately $350–$750, higher for larger tanks, two-tank systems, or difficult access.
• How to prepare (numbered steps):
  1. Locate the tank lid(s) and clear a safe path for workers.
  2. Note any obstacles (vehicles, pets, debris) near the access point.
  3. Schedule for dry weather to minimize ground disturbance.

System inspections and certifications

• What this service includes:
  • Visual inspection of tank and components (baffles, pump chamber, lids), measurement of sludge/scum levels, check for leaks, and a written report. For real estate transactions, a formal certification or dye-test may be required.
  • Paris-specific considerations: many homes are older and may need more thorough inspections to satisfy Fauquier County or state requirements; certification often ties into home sales.
• Typical cost in Paris:
  • Basic inspection: roughly $100–$250.
  • Full inspection with report and dye-testing: about $250–$450+.
• How to prepare (numbered steps):
  1. Gather any prior inspection reports or permits for reference.
  2. Ensure access to the tank and pump chamber.
  3. Request a written certification tailored to a sale or transfer if needed.

Drain field evaluation and repairs

• What this service includes:
  • Soil and drainage assessment, field surveillance (sometimes with camera or probe), evaluation of effluent absorption capacity, and recommendations for repair or replacement.
  • Paris-specific considerations: clay or dense soils, seasonal high water tables, and distance to wells or streams can influence drain-field strategy; in some cases a mound or alternative system may be required.
• Typical cost in Paris:
  • Evaluation: $500–$1,200.
  • Repair or replacement of drain field: $5,000–$15,000+; new field with specialty designs (e.g., mound) can run higher.
• How to prepare (numbered steps):
  1. Provide site plans or property maps if available.
  2. Mark any known leach-field areas or back-up concerns.
  3. Schedule before or after heavy rain to observe field performance.

New installations and replacements

• What this service includes:
  • Site evaluation, system design, permit coordination, installation of tank(s), distribution/vent lines, and final inspection with approvals.
  • Paris-specific considerations: local setbacks to wells, streams, buildings, and property lines; compliance with Fauquier County and Virginia regulations; potential use of alternative systems in challenging soils.
• Typical cost in Paris:
  • Conventional 1,000–1,500 gallon system: roughly $6,000–$15,000.
  • Specialized systems (mounds, enhanced treatment) or larger parcels: $15,000–$60,000+.
• How to prepare (numbered steps):
  1. Obtain a soil evaluation and design plan from a licensed designer.
  2. Confirm permit requirements with the county early in planning.
  3. Schedule access for the entire installation crew and lay down protective path for equipment.

Drain line cleaning and jetting

• What this service includes:
  • Cleaning pipes between the house and the septic tank, removing blockages, root intrusion, or buildup, and a camera check to confirm free flow.
  • Paris-specific considerations: tree roots and dense landscaping common in rural properties can cause frequent minor clogs; long runs may incur additional travel time.
• Typical cost in Paris:
  • $150–$400 per hour, plus any camera inspection or additional diagnostics.
• How to prepare (numbered steps):
  1. Identify access point(s) and reduce nearby vegetation if needed.
  2. Note any recurring backups to discuss with the tech.
  3. Have a clear path for equipment and hoses.

Emergency septic services

• What this service includes:
  • 24/7 response for backups, overflows, or sudden system failures; may include temporary pumping, alarm testing, or rapid repairs.
  • Paris-specific considerations: rural access can affect response time and travel charges; weather or road conditions may impact on-site time.
• Typical cost in Paris:
  • Service call: $75–$150.
  • Emergency pump-outs: $350–$950.
  • Major repair or parts (pump, lines, or tank replacement): highly variable, often $2,000–$5,000+.
• How to prepare (numbered steps):
  1. Keep access clear for 24/7 responders.
  2. Have emergency contact and property map ready.
  3. Note nearby wells or septic drain-field locations for quick assessment.

Real estate transfer inspections

• What this service includes:
  • A targeted assessment suitable for closing, including essential tank condition, baffle status, and system functionality with a concise report.
  • Paris-specific considerations: many homes change hands in this area; timing of inspections may align with closing deadlines.
• Typical cost in Paris:
  • Basic transfer inspection: $150–$350.
  • Full transfer and certification package: $350–$550.
• How to prepare (numbered steps):
  1. Schedule well before closing to accommodate any follow-up work.
  2. Provide seller and buyer with a copy of the report.
  3. Align inspection with county permit and filing needs.

Official resources

• Virginia Department of Health – Septic Systems:
• Virginia Department of Environmental Quality – Onsite Sewage Program: