By certified do you mean inspected to make sure that it is in working order? If so, no that isn't required. There is a required disclosure (TAR form F85) that asks if the seller has had any perc or soil absorption tests done. Permits are required to install a septic system. Each county should have a copy of the original septic permit on file which tells you how many bedrooms the system is approved for. In practical terms, many of the older permits have been lost and are no longer available.

As Victoria mentioned, you can place contingencies in your contract requiring an inspection or pumping of the septic system. Whether this is done and who pays for it is a negotiable point.

Home Buyer,
It is not a law in Tennessee to have the septic Tank certified. I have lived in my home for 10 years and (knock on wood) we have not had a problem. Problems with septic tank could depend on several factors such as the size of the tank, how many people live in the home, young children or only adults, the terrain, size of the leach field, etc. If you have concerns, I would ask the tank to be checked as part of the sales contract.
If I can be of any assistance, please don't hesitate to call my toll free numer; 877 358-3944. Thanks

Nitzntd,

It is not a law for a septic tank to be pumped in Tennessee. Tennessee is unlike other states where there is a lot of problems with spetic systems.

I have owned my home for five years, it was build in 1992, and the septic has never been pumped or had a problem. If this is a concern for you it is still negotaible in the contract. If I can hep with anything else please feel free to contact me. My toll free number is 866.267.3629