VA Loan Septic Requirements: Everything You Need to Know

If you’re a veteran considering a VA home loan, one key aspect you’ll need to pay attention to is the property’s septic system VA loans have specific requirements when it comes to septic tanks and drainage fields. Failing to meet these standards can put your VA loan approval at risk

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through the VA’s septic system requirements, potential issues to watch for, and what to do if problems arise. By understanding these criteria upfront, you can search for homes accordingly and ensure a smooth journey towards closing day.

An Overview of VA Septic Requirements

Unlike conventional loans, VA loans require the property to meet certain minimum property requirements (MPRs) set by the Department of Veterans Affairs These MPRs are designed to ensure the home is safe, structurally sound, and sanitary.

One area the VA focuses on is the sewage disposal system. If the home uses a septic tank instead of connecting to public sewer the system must comply with the following standards

• Septic tank condition – The septic tank cannot have significant cracks, leaks, or other structural defects. It must be in overall good condition.

• Septic tank size – The tank must be appropriately sized for the home’s sewage needs based on number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and occupants.

• Leach field drainage – The leach field or drainage area must allow for effective absorption and treatment of wastewater into the soil. Poor drainage can lead to septic system failures.

• Leach field compaction – The leach field area cannot be overly compacted. Too much compaction reduces the soil’s ability to absorb and filter sewage.

• Public health – The septic system cannot pose any public health hazards such as contaminating nearby water sources.

Meeting these standards is critical not just for VA loan approval but for protecting your home environment and community.

Septic Inspections with VA Loans

Your assigned VA appraiser will complete an initial inspection of the septic system during the home appraisal process. They will check for visible signs of defects or malfunction.

If the appraiser identifies potential issues, they may require a more comprehensive inspection by a licensed septic professional. This helps determine if repairs or upgrades are needed to meet VA guidelines.

Some key areas inspectors investigate include:

• Visually checking the septic tank and drain field for signs of failure like ponding, odd odors, or surfacing sewage.

• Assessing the tank’s structural integrity and looking for leaks, cracks, or root blockages.

• Evaluating the size of the tank relative to the home and number of occupants.

• Testing functionality by flushing toilets, running water, and checking for backups.

• Determining if the leach field allows for proper drainage based on soil conditions.

• Checking that all septic components are up to code.

Thorough inspections help identify issues early so they can be addressed before closing on the home.

Septic Distance Requirements

When it comes to distance, the VA does not mandate specific minimum distances between the septic system and other features like wells or water sources. The focus is more on the septic system’s overall condition and compliance with sanitary standards.

With that said, some states and local jurisdictions do have their own setback requirements that may apply:

• Property line – Many areas require a minimum 5-10 foot setback from the septic tank and drainage area to the property line.

• Well – Typical setbacks range from 50-100+ feet between the septic system and any wells on or near the property.

• House foundation – A minimum separation of 10 feet is commonly required between the septic tank/leach field and the home’s foundation.

• Water bodies – Setbacks of 50-200 feet or more are often mandated between the septic drainage area and any nearby ponds, streams, lakes, or other water sources.

Consult local regulations to understand any distance rules in the area. While not explicitly stated in VA policy, adhering to applicable setbacks is advisable.

What If the Septic System Fails Inspection?

If your septic inspection identifies issues that don’t meet VA standards, you’ll need to address them before moving forward. Here are some potential solutions:

• Request seller repairs – You can ask the seller to make the necessary fixes to bring the septic system up to code. Any repairs must be completed prior to closing.

• Cover costs yourself – If the seller is unwilling or unable to handle the repairs, you may opt to take care of the costs personally. This ensures you can close on time.

• Walk away – If repairs are too expensive, you can withdraw your offer and continue searching for another home that meets VA septic requirements.

• Apply for sewer connection – In some cases, you may choose to tap into the public sewer system if available. This avoids the need for septic system repairs or upgrades altogether.

• Seek exceptions – For minor issues, your lender can request exceptions from VA to allow the loan to proceed. But VA approval is not guaranteed.

Addressing septic problems is essential for your home’s health and safety. While repairs can add time and costs, viable solutions are available to get your VA loan back on track.

Tips for Finding a VA-Compliant Septic System

Searching for a home with a sound, compliant septic system will make for a much smoother VA loan experience. Here are some useful pointers:

• Ask about sewer vs septic – Don’t assume the home is connected to public sewer lines. Verify upfront if a septic system is used.

• Review septic records – Request documentation showing past maintenance and the system’s overall age. This can help gauge conditions.

• Look for signs of failure – Be on the lookout for wet spots, odd smells, or excess vegetation indicating potential drainage issues.

• Consider age – While not a definite predictor, newer systems have had less time to degrade. Optimal life is typically around 20-30 years.

• Calculate capacity – Ensure the tank and drainage size can adequately handle the number of bedrooms and potential occupants.

• Examine terrain – Flatter, sandy, well-draining soil is ideal for septic leach fields. Avoid steep grades or dense clay.

• Confirm setback compliance – Check that all separations from wells, water, foundation, etc. meet state and local regulations.

• Ask about reserves – With community septic systems, inquire about funds reserved for maintenance and repairs.

• Review scope of inspection – Ensure your assigned VA appraiser will thoroughly examine the septic system.

Taking these proactive steps will help you find a home already meeting VA guidelines—saving you headaches down the road.

Partnering With Septic Professionals

As you navigate VA septic requirements, don’t go it alone. Partnering with qualified septic experts is wise:

Septic inspectors – Hire an experienced inspector to thoroughly evaluate the system. Look for proper licensing and certifications.

Septic installers – If repairs or replacements are needed, choose a reputable, licensed septic installer. Get multiple bids.

Septic pumpers – Routine septic tank pumping helps extend the system’s lifespan. Confirm adequate maintenance records.

Septic designers – For new construction or major upgrades, a designer can ensure the system is appropriately sized and engineered.

Real estate agents – Lean on your agent’s local knowledge regarding typical septic needs, costs, and contractors in the area.

Getting support from septic specialists helps ensure your system not only passes VA guidelines but works optimally for years to come.

Key Takeaways on VA Septic Requirements

If the home you’re looking to purchase has a septic tank instead of sewer, be sure to keep these VA loan septic guidelines in mind:

• The septic system must be in good condition with no structural defects or public health hazards.

• Septic components should be adequately sized for the number of bedrooms and potential occupants.

• Effective drainage and absorption in the leach field area is critical.

• Compaction around the leach field must not impede proper wastewater filtration.

• Local setback requirements may also apply between the septic system and other features.

• Issues found during inspections must be repaired prior to closing on your VA loan.

• If repairs are needed, you have options such as negotiating with the seller, covering costs yourself, looking for another property, or seeking exceptions from the VA.

• Work with qualified septic professionals to ensure a compliant, well-functioning system.

While VA loans offer great home financing benefits for veterans, be sure to closely evaluate the property’s septic system. Taking the time to understand these requirements will help set your VA loan experience up for success.

Frequency of Entities:

va loan septic requirements: 39
septic system: 30
va loan: 17
leach field: 10
septic tank: 10
drainage: 7