Pros & Cons of Buying a Home With a Septic System – What Reno Homeowners Should Know
When buying a home in Reno, wastewater management is one of the most important factors to consider—especially if the property relies on a septic tank instead of the city sewer system. Understanding the advantages and disadvantages of septic systems can help you make an informed decision before closing on a home.
If you’re evaluating a property with a septic tank or need professional help maintaining one, Rooter Man Plumbing is here for you. As trusted Plumbers in Reno, we specialize in septic tank installation, septic inspections, drain field repair, pumping, and full-service septic maintenance for both residential and commercial properties.
Below, we break down the pros and cons of buying a home with a septic system—and how Rooter Man Plumbing can help keep your system working efficiently.
Pros of Owning a Home With a Septic Tank
1. Cost-Effective For Many Homeowners
Septic systems can be more economical than connecting to Reno’s municipal sewer lines—especially for larger or rural properties. A typical septic installation averages around $6,000, while connecting to city sewer can cost between $2,500–$10,000, depending on location and distance.
Plus, with a septic system, homeowners avoid monthly sewer bills, making it a cost-effective long-term choice.
2. Environmentally Friendly
A properly maintained septic system naturally filters wastewater through the soil before returning clean water to the environment. Because it processes waste on-site, it reduces demand on Reno’s public sewage treatment facilities.
Routine maintenance from Rooter Man Plumbing ensures your system continues operating at peak eco-efficiency.
3. Possible Reduced Property Taxes
In some regions, homes with septic systems may qualify for lower property taxes because they don’t put strain on municipal sewer infrastructure. Reno homeowners should check local county policies to see if septic-related tax benefits apply.
4. More Independence & Fewer Municipal Issues
Homes connected to the city sewer can be affected by municipal overflows, sewer blockages, or infrastructure problems. With a septic system, you have greater independence—as long as you keep up with routine maintenance.
Cons of Owning a Home With a Septic Tank
1. Required Maintenance
A septic system must be professionally pumped every 3–5 years, inspected regularly, and maintained to avoid costly issues. Neglecting maintenance can result in backups, clogs, sewage overflow, and expensive repairs.
Routine septic services from Rooter Man Plumbing help protect your system and prevent avoidable failures.
2. Risk of System Failure
A neglected septic system can fail due to many factors:
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Flushing non-biodegradable items
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Tree root intrusion
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Overloading the system with excessive water
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Old age
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Poor installation
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Damage from heavy vehicles parked on the drainfield
Signs of septic failure include foul odors, slow drains, gurgling toilets, or sewage pooling in the yard. Repairs can cost thousands—making preventative care essential.
Prevent Septic System Failure With These Tips
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Don’t flush wipes, hygiene products, grease, or chemicals
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Pump your tank every 3–5 years
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Spread out laundry loads
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Avoid parking heavy vehicles on the drainfield
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Schedule routine inspections with Plumbers in Reno who specialize in septic systems
Conclusion: Septic Systems Offer Benefits—But Require Responsibility
Septic systems provide cost savings and independence, but they require proper care to stay in good working condition. If you’re considering buying a home with a septic tank in Reno, it’s smart to schedule a professional septic inspection before finalizing your purchase.
Need Septic Services in Reno?
Rooter Man Plumbing provides:
✔ Septic tank inspections
✔ Septic pumping
✔ New septic tank installation
✔ Drain field repair
✔ Routine septic maintenance
✔ Emergency septic services
Whether you’re buying a home, maintaining your system, or dealing with a septic concern, our experienced team is ready to help.
Contact Rooter Man Plumbing today for reliable septic services in Reno and surrounding areas. Our licensed experts ensure your system runs safely, efficiently, and affordably.