Frequently asked questions
Is a septic inspection required when selling a house in Texas?
The state OSSF statute and rules require inspection and approval for new, altered or repaired systems, and set maintenance rules for aerobic systems. Local authorized agents can add requirements (some require a transfer permit), and lenders may ask for an inspection. Check with your county's authorized agent; each county page names them.
Who inspects septic systems in Texas?
Permit and installation inspections are done by the local authorized agent's Designated Representatives, or by TCEQ where there's no local agent. For a private evaluation, owners and buyers hire licensed installers, site evaluators or maintenance providers.
What's the difference between Installer I and Installer II?
TCEQ says an Installer I may install standard systems (septic tanks, absorptive drainfields and similar), while an Installer II may install all types of OSSF systems.
How often does an aerobic septic system need service?
TCEQ advises contracting with a licensed maintenance provider to check and test the system as 30 TAC §285.91 requires. With an electronic monitor, reporting can be reduced to every six months. Your permitting authority may have stricter rules.
How often should a conventional septic tank be pumped?
TCEQ recommends every three to five years.
How much does a septic inspection cost in Texas?
We don't publish prices because no official source we checked lists typical inspection costs. Get written quotes from more than one licensed provider.
How do I verify a septic license?
Click the license number on any listing to open its TCEQ record, or search the TCEQ licensing database.
Why don't some listings have a phone number?
TCEQ only publishes business contact details when the license holder authorizes it. Everyone else is listed with name, license type and number only.
Does a county listing mean the business is located there?
No. The county is the one on the license holder's TCEQ record. This site serves each county by listing those records; it doesn't claim anyone has an office there.
Is this site run by TCEQ?
No. It's an independent directory built from public TCEQ data. Nobody pays to be listed.