Article: Start from the sewer pipe in the lower level of your house, if possible. Follow the direction it takes as it exits the house. Your tank may be out there and buried. Locating the tank now saves time and money later regardless if you or an inspector clean the tank. Your tank may be buried underground. Before inspection, take a shovel and remove the dirt around the top of the tank. Your tank will have an access port lid which should be strong and on tight. Risers can be added on top of the tank. These help you locate and access the tank without digging. Septic system pumpers can add these. Look along the tank, including the inside, for damaged areas. Cracks need to be repaired by a professional once the tank is pumped so the system doesn’t fail. Look for any rusted or broken pieces on the inlet and outlet pipes required for drainage. Check any distribution boxes or pump chambers, if your tank has one attached. It is useful to run some water from your house, such as from the toilet or washing machine, to see if the water makes it to the tank and then drains properly.

What is a summary?
Find your tank. Dig out the top of the tank. Inspect the tank for cracks.