Skip to content
forebot.
Sign inBook a demo

Cannot find the tank or no system records.

A septic technician should gather the records, and the local health department is the place to request permits.

Customers put it like this

  • don't know where the tank is
  • no paperwork on the septic
  • where is the drainfield?
  • need an as-built
Prepare this job in ForeBotFind another guide

Stop first if

  • Someone plans to dig to find the tank or lines.Hold off. Try the records first and locate utilities before digging.
  • A buried lid is found loose, cracked or open.Keep everyone back and block the opening. Call a septic technician.
01

Ask on the call

5

Homeowner? These are the questions a good technician will ask you. Having the answers ready makes the first visit count.

  1. Do you have any permits, drawings or pumping receipts?
  2. Who pumped it last?
  3. Who owned the house before you?
  4. Has the house had additions or remodels?
  5. Could any part of the system sit on another parcel?
02

Bring

4
  • Tape measure
  • Field marking flags
  • Phone for photos
  • Copy of the parcel map
03

Check on site

5
  1. Collect the owner's file, parcel number, permits and as-built.
  2. Request missing records from the local health department.
  3. Ask the prior owner and the pumping contractor for theirs.
  4. Search building permits for later additions.
  5. Draw a location chart from what turns up, and post it in the building.
04

Keep on the record

4
  • Parcel and permit numbers
  • As-built or sketch with measurements from fixed points
  • Pumper's records
  • List of items still missing

General guidance for a qualified person, not a finding about any home. The person on site decides.