Title 5 Inspections in Massachusetts

A Title 5 Inspection, otherwise known as a Title V Septic test is performed in Massachusetts by a certified Title V Inspector. This specific test is used to determine and document the current condition of your septic system. An at-home septic system has to pass a title V inspection if you are attempting to sell your home. If you fail your septic system inspection, you can either replace the system with a new one or you can put money into escrow which can potentially cover the costs of replacement. When a Title V Inspection is completed, if you pass, you’re set for the next 2 years. As a homeowner, if you have your septic system pumped each year then your Title V is good for 3 years.

During a Title V Inspection, we’ll thoroughly check your cesspool, leach field, distribution box, and septic tank to make sure all parts are in working order. If your septic tank is retaining too much water before it can drain, this could lead to possible septic system failure. The guidelines to pass or fail are set by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection.

Signs of a Failing Septic System:

• Sewage or water backups are spilling into your home drains, sinks, and toilets
• Sink and showers drain the water at an abnormally slower rate
• Bubbling or gurgling sounds coming from the plumbing system or pipes
• Strong, foul odors coming from the outside
• Patches of spongy grass or damp grass over the septic tank/drain-field
• Drain-field that has become over-saturated with water and doesn’t drain in an adequate amount of time. At this point, a drain field inspection will need to be performed.

Excavation Plus has the experience and certifications to perform a Title V Inspection that matches up with the MA DEP guidelines. With 30 years of combined experience, the team at Excavation Plus can meet and exceed your home septic system requirements.