Point-of-sale inspections check that a home's septic system is functioning properly before a sale closes, which can involve locating and uncovering the tank, checking sludge and scum levels, testing the drain field for signs of failure, and confirming the system matches county permit records. Buncombe County's mix of older rural properties and newer construction in the Asheville area means system age and permit history can vary widely.

  • Tank locating, uncovering, and sludge/scum level check
  • Drain field evaluation for signs of failure or saturation
  • Comparison against available county permit records

Current Septic Inspection Trends

  • Several states tightened point-of-sale septic requirements in 2026

    Virginia's HB 2671 (effective 2025) now requires written contracts and licensed inspectors with a report within 10 business days; North Carolina requires NCOWCICB-certified inspectors for point-of-sale inspections — state-specific requirements are genuinely changing, not just a formality. (Industry state septic regulation coverage, 2026)

  • Lenders are scrutinizing septic systems more closely

    Most FHA, VA, and USDA loans require a professional septic evaluation before approving financing, and lenders are applying more scrutiny to these systems than in past years. (Industry septic inspection lending coverage, 2026)

This content is reviewed by the Asheville Septic Inspection editorial team and informed by licensed-contractor sourcing, manufacturer documentation, and established industry standards for Septic Inspection. Read our editorial standards.