Hi Susan,
Replacing a failed septic system isa costly endeavor, as you know, and a home warranty will probably not give you the total coverage you might want. I'd suggest a few things before buying:
1. have an open pit inspection with a camera from a reputable inspector (ask your county health department for a list of inspectors).
2. Secure all records on the current system from the County Health Department
3. Get a booklet on proper care of a septic system from the County Health Department. As a new homeowner with a septic, it's very important to know how to care for your system properly.

Hello again.

In southern Jersey, we have a contact from Family Crest Property Management 866-332-6459 from a reputable real estate company service directory. Try them. Hope all goes well. The contact is from Ocean/Monmouth County. Not sure how far south you were looking.

Carmelo Torres
A Home For Sale Realty

Unfortunately, I believe the company that did the septic is now out of business. Does anyone know any reputable septic companies in Southern NJ?

Septic tanks are usually an optional coverage with the home owners waranty. If it is not covered by the sellers policy you can upgrade.

There are no guarantees that in 6 months there won't be problems. Check with the company that did your spectic inspection and see if they have any guarantee or warranty programs.

Laura Giannotta
Keller Williams Atlantic Shore

What happens if the septic passes inspection than breaks down 6 months after? Does the buyer have any recourse? Is there any type of "guarantee" against this?

Hi Susan,

While working for Coldwell Banker, they had a list of service providers with whom the brokerage recommended. Try Susan Dattolo at American Home Shield. She's the account executive for AHS for Passaic County. Her number is 800-800-8880 ext 6718. Email is sdattolo@ahslink.com.

Good luck. Hope that helps.

Hi Susan,

I am not sure what area you are in or what you are looking for exactly. There is a company that called First American they have an optional coverage but it only covers septic tank pumping and there are certain rules. If you go to this page on their website: http://homewarranty.firstam.com/RWhatIsCovered.aspx and then click under English sample contract it will show you what it covers.

Another suggestion is to call around to different insurance companies. Some may not offer it with their standard coverage but ask if they have a separate rider you can purchase to cover your septic.

Also... here is a website with some suggestions on how to keep your septic system from failing:

http://www.alsnetbiz.com/homeimprovement/septic.html

Good luck!

Angela "Angie" Allchin
Century 21 Rauh & Johns
856-582-0366
Angela.Allchin@Century21.com

http://www.FirstAm.com will give a optional coverage to the buyer for a one time pumping of a system.
Now bear in mind when you buy these days you will require a full open pit inspection and if the system passes - and many don't and have to be fixed - then it should be good for a while as long as you get proper maintenance.
Drop me an email if you would like more info.
Regards