Frequently Asked Questions
Can't find the answer? Email us at support@septic-scout.com
For Buyers & Homeowners
What is Septic Scout?
Septic Scout is a directory of certified septic inspectors across the United States. We verify certification status, surface pricing, and highlight inspectors who meet real estate transaction requirements — so you can find the right inspector quickly without making a dozen phone calls.
How do I find an inspector near me?
Enter your ZIP code on the homepage. Results are sorted by tier (premium inspectors appear first), then by Google rating. You can filter by certification status, escrow-friendly availability, camera inspection, and Virginia OSSP licensing.
What does "State Certified" mean?
A green "State Certified" badge means the inspector holds a current license issued by their state's Department of Health or Environmental Services, and we have cross-referenced that credential against official state records. An inspector without this badge may still be qualified — it means we haven't verified their credential yet.
What does the 10-Day Report badge mean?
Virginia's 2026 disclosure law requires septic inspection reports to be delivered within 10 business days. Inspectors with this badge either explicitly guarantee 10-day turnaround or list a turnaround time of 10 days or less. This is critical if you're under contract and working toward a closing deadline.
What is a Virginia OSSP license?
An On-Site Sewage Professional (OSSP) is a Virginia-specific credential issued by the Virginia Department of Health. Virginia's 2026 property transfer disclosure law requires OSSP-evaluated reports for real estate transactions — a general home inspector or contractor cannot satisfy this requirement. Look for the "VA OSSP Licensed" badge.
Is my information safe when I request a quote?
Yes. We verify your email address with a one-time code before your quote request is submitted. Your contact information is transmitted directly to the inspector and is automatically deleted from our system after 30 days. We do not sell or share your information with third parties.
Why do I need an email verification code to request a quote?
The verification step prevents spam and ensures inspectors receive genuine quote requests. It takes about 30 seconds and means the inspector knows you're a real person before they spend time responding.
For Inspectors & Pumpers
How do I get my business listed?
Visit /submit to create a free listing in minutes. You'll need your business name, email address, and service area. Your listing goes live immediately and is searchable by buyers.
What's the difference between the free listing and Pro?
A free listing gets you found in search results. Pro ($49/month) adds lead routing — buyers can submit quote requests directly to you, and you'll receive email notifications with their contact information. Pro also gives you a verified certification badge and priority placement in search results.
What does Premium add over Pro?
Premium ($99/month) gives you the "Priority Listing" badge, top placement above Pro listings in search results, and coverage for up to 3 service areas.
What is the Preferred Pumper tier?
Preferred Pumper ($19/month) is designed for septic pumping and maintenance companies — not inspectors. It gives your pumping business a dedicated listing, lead routing from homeowners who need pumping or service, and a "Preferred Pumper" badge.
How do I claim my listing if my business is already in the directory?
Visit /claim, enter your business's slug (the URL name — e.g., "valley-septic-services-springfield-va"), and verify ownership with a code sent to your business email. If you're not sure of your slug, find your business in search and copy the last part of the URL.
How do leads work?
When a buyer submits a quote request from your listing page, you receive an email with their name, phone number, property address, and timeline. Leads are only routed to Pro and Premium inspectors. Free-tier inspectors can see a count of waiting leads to encourage upgrading.
Can I cancel my subscription?
Yes, cancel anytime from your dashboard under Account → Manage Billing. Your Pro/Premium features stay active until the end of the current billing period. No cancellation fees.
How do I update my listing information?
Log in at /login and go to the Listing tab in your dashboard. You can update your phone number, website, pricing, turnaround time, and service flags (camera, escrow-friendly, digging included, 10-day guarantee).
About the Directory
How are inspectors verified?
We cross-reference inspector credentials against state Department of Health and Environmental Services registries. Massachusetts Title 5, Virginia OSSP, Maryland MDE, and Oregon DEQ registries are checked periodically. When verification is confirmed, we set the cert_verified_at timestamp and display the green badge.
Why is New Jersey inspection so expensive?
New Jersey mandates septic inspections on nearly all property transfers, which creates high demand. NJ inspections also typically include pumping as part of the process, and the state's strict regulations require more thorough documentation. Expect $1,200–$2,000 vs. $300–$800 in most other states.
How do I report an incorrect listing?
Email us at support@septic-scout.com with the listing URL and the correction. We review and update listings within 2 business days.