Frequently Asked Questions
How should I prepare for a residential water test?
Residential samples will be taken from a water line that is not running through any filtering or treatment, such as a water softener, and will be drawn from the cold line only. Hot water, through its heating process, may leave traces of elements that affect the testing outcome. You may also be asked to run some water continuously for a period of time prior to the sampling.
How do I know if I need a septic inspection for my property transfer or sale?
Unfortunately, there is no broad, consistent requirement for septic inspections in this state. The compliance requirements vary widely; your property may fall under county or municipality regulators, or none at all. We encourage buyers and sellers alike to check county websites to find out what unit of government regulates septic compliance in their areas, and to follow up directly with them for current laws.
How early should I schedule a septic inspection prior to a property sale?
At the very least, you want to leave time for your inspector to make the required Gopher State One call and have the property marked for buried utilities since the procedure will involve deep soil probes. Gopher State One is a minimum 2 days to clear for digging. Weather conditions will also impact your inspection, so ample time should be accounted for prior to a closing.
How long is a septic inspection report good for?
Inspections stand for three years.
Can I get a septic inspection during the winter?
With Minnesota winters, you really never know how frozen the soil is going to be! Sometimes we can get an adequate soil boring done for inspections, but we can’t guarantee it. If you have a property for sale that you know will require a compliance report to close, we often recommend having an inspection done before winter sets in. The report will be good for three years.
What about a water test?
Water sampling is taken year-round.