Our Services & Request Form

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Septic Inspections
for real estate transactions or to meet municipal regulatory requirements

Many homes in Lancaster County have onlot wastewater treatment (septic) systems. These systems are usually out of sight and therefore often out of mind. Given the cost of repair or replacement of septic systems, the financial and environmental effects of a failed system are very unpleasant.

As a result, a septic inspection is often required by mortgage lenders during the home buying process. It's always a good idea to get one even if it's not required. This way, potential problems can be detected and dealt with ahead of time.

Rabe Home Services offers these core septic inspection services:

Standard Septic Inspection
A standard inspection consists of locating and identifying all the components of the septic system and evaluating their current condition. This means visually inspecting the sewer lines in the home and the interior of the septic tank. The flow of sewage to the septic tank and flow of effluent leaving it is evaluated. Liquid levels in the absorption area are determined. Most inspections can be completed in less than three hours.

Some older systems that have not been maintained or updated can be very difficult to locate and evaluate using conventional methods. This may result in the need for further investigation being scheduled at additional expense. A detailed report will be emailed to you on the next business day.


Hydraulic Load Test
The absorption system is located and tested to confirm it can receive and dissipate the prescribed volume of water. This requires an appointment at the same time on two consecutive days. A detailed report will be emailed to you on the next business day.
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PSMA certification guidelines require a hydraulic load test when a home has been vacant for more than seven days, and they recommend it when more people are moving in than are moving out.

​We can offer a discount on the hydraulic load test if the homeowner grants permission to use the on-site water.