Protecting Property, Preserving Resources

There can be no warranty or guarantee as to the longevity of a well or septic system from an evaluation. Due to the dynamic nature of your well or septic system, and varying inputs to the systems, no long-term guarantee can be provided. The evaluation is a snap-shot in time and only speaks to the health of the systems at the moment of evaluation. 

A typical septic system has two main components, the septic tank(s) and the absorption area, more commonly called the drainfield. The septic tank will trap the solids (scum and sludge) and separate them from the liquids (effluent). The effluent then leaves the septic tank to go to your drainfield where it is dispersed into the soil and treated before reaching groundwater. For more information on septic systems, visit the EPA's septic information website here: https://www.epa.gov/septic/about-septic-systems 

A general rule of thumb in the wastewater industry is that septic systems last 25-30 years. Some systems can last much longer and some much sorter. Lifespan depends on a number of factors such as use, sizing, soil type that it was installed in and maintenance.

Your water supply is more than just a  hole in the ground that supplies water. Your system consists of a well head, typically located outside the home, but can be in a pit or a basement. This is usually made of steel or pvc pipe, called a casing. Another important component of your water supply is your well pump. This is what pumps water from the casing in the ground to your home. These can be submersible and reside in the well casing or can be a jet pump in the home or well pit. The next component of your water supply is your pressure tank. This is typically a steel tank located in your basement or utility area of your home. Attached to this tank are important components such as a pressure gauge, pressure switch, pressure relief valve, and sample tap. The last part of your water supply is your home plumbing including all water lines, fixtures and appliances hooked to the water supply.

Just like any part of your home, your well and septic have a limited lifespan and require maintenance. While it can seem quicker and more convenient to waive well and septic evaluations to speed up the purchase process, this is ill-advised. A well or septic replacement can be some of the most costly repairs for a home and if you don't know what you are buying, you can be stuck with that cost after the purchase. An evaluation provides you with assurance that the system is safe for you and your family and operating as it should be.

While there is no license or certification statewide in Michigan to conduct well or septic evaluations, Comeau Environmental Solutions has a staff on hand that hold the Registered Environmental Health Specialist certification or REHS. This certification is what the state as well as local health departments require to design and approve more involved septic systems and oversee well and septic teams at health departments. It requires a minimum of two years experience in the field and passing a rigorous exam. It is comparable to being licensed in a specific trade like electrical, plumbing, or building.