03/24/2023
Steel septic tanks are still out there!
When inspecting a septic system on a recent flip all the visible indications with a hydraulic load test didn't reveal any readily observable issues; however, after the tank was pumped and we used our video equipment it was discovered the septic tank was made of steel and actively collapsing.
Steel septic tanks deteriorate and collapse and should always be replaced. This one had a concrete lid installed on it many years ago to fix a previous collapsed lid and could only be identified as steel by inserting our video equipment through a small 4” clean out pipe.
The $5k replacement of the septic tank was performed by the owner and settlement was not delayed.