How To Do A Perc Test: A Beginner’s Guide

When buying land for development or investment, understanding soil suitability is crucial. Did you know that nearly 60% of failed septic system installations are due to improper soil testing? Learning how to do a perc test can save costly mistakes and ensure the land fits your project. Steve Daria and Joleigh, highly respected real estate investors and land buyers for cash, emphasize the importance of perc tests in making informed land purchases. A perc test evaluates how well the soil can absorb water, a critical factor if you plan to install a septic system. Knowing this simple test can help you avoid future headaches and make smart, profitable decisions. Whether you’re buying your first home or adding to your investment portfolio, this guide breaks it down so you can confidently learn how to do a perc test on your own. Have questions about land buying or real estate? Book a free discussion with Steve and Joleigh today, and gain expert insights for your next big move!

Key Points

• Understand What a Perc Test Is: This measures how well the soil absorbs water. Determining whether the land can support a septic system or similar developments is essential.

• Gather the Right Tools and Materials: To perform a perc test, you’ll need digging tools, water, a stopwatch, and measuring equipment. Having these ready ensures a smooth and accurate testing process.

• Choose the Right Location to Perform the Test: The test site should be in the area where you plan to install a septic system. Testing the wrong spot could lead to inaccurate results and potentially costly errors.

• Follow Step-by-step Testing Procedures: Dig a hole, saturate the soil with water, and measure how long it takes for the water to drain. Ensure you follow local regulations, as requirements may differ by area.

• Interpret the Results Accurately: A successful perc test indicates your soil can absorb water at a reasonable rate. If the results indicate poor absorption, consider exploring alternative solutions or selecting a different location for better outcomes.

What is a perc test, and why is it important?

A perc test is typically needed by anyone planning to build on a piece of land in an area without access to a public sewer system. 

Homeowners who want to install a septic system must make sure the soil can handle wastewater safely. 

Land developers and builders often use perc tests to check the ground’s suitability before designing or starting a project. 

It’s also common for real estate buyers, especially those looking at rural properties, to require a perc test to know if the land is usable for future construction. 

Local governments may even require a passed perc test to approve permits for building or installing a septic tank. 

Learning how to do a perc test is especially useful for first-time landowners or investors, as it offers crucial insights into the property’s condition and potential value. 

If you’re considering selling land, a completed perc test can also reassure potential buyers. 

Knowing how to do a perc test helps you make well-informed decisions and steer clear of unexpected costs throughout the construction or purchasing process.

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Who typically needs to perform a perc test?

A perc test is typically needed by people who plan to build on land that does not have access to a public sewer system. 

For example, homeowners wanting to install a septic system need to confirm that the soil can safely absorb wastewater. 

Land developers frequently conduct perc tests to confirm that their construction plans can proceed smoothly without encountering issues related to soil conditions. 

Real estate buyers, especially those looking at rural or undeveloped land, use and understand how to do a perc test to know if the property can support future buildings. 

Sometimes, local authorities make perc tests mandatory before issuing permits for building or installing septic tanks. 

Learning how to do a perc test can be handy for landowners, as it helps them check the soil conditions themselves or verify results from professionals. 

Knowing this information early can save you time, money, and frustration by identifying issues that could make the land unsuitable. 

It also gives buyers, sellers, and builders confidence that the property is ready for development.

What tools and materials are required for a perc test?

1. Shovel or Post Hole Digger: You’ll need a tool to dig holes in the ground for the test. A shovel works well for most soil types, while a post-hole digger can be helpful for deeper or narrower holes.
   
   
2. Measuring Tape or Ruler: Accurate measurements are crucial for the perc test. Measure the depth and width of the holes with a tape or ruler, and track how much water drains over time.
   
   
3. Buckets of Water: The test requires soaking the soil and observing how quickly it absorbs water. Having a few buckets of clean water ready will make the process easier and quicker.
   
   
4. Stopwatch or Timer: Timing the rate at which water drains into the soil is a key part of the perc test. A stopwatch or timer will help you record this information accurately.
   
   
5. Notebook and Pen: It’s important to write down your measurements and observations during the test. A notebook and pen will help you record the results and any other details you need later.

Are there any local regulations or permits needed for a perc test?

Local regulations and permits are often required before you can perform a perc test, and the rules differ based on the property’s location. 

Many counties or municipalities have specific guidelines for how to do a perc test to ensure it meets environmental and health standards. 

For instance, you may need to get approval or a permit from the local health department before starting. 

This is because a perc test determines whether septic systems can safely treat wastewater without harming the surrounding environment. 

Some areas may also require that a licensed professional conduct the test instead of the property owner. 

It’s a good idea to contact your local government office or planning department to ask about the specific requirements in your community. 

Knowing how to do a perc test properly can save you time and help you avoid issues with permits or regulations later. 

By following these rules, you can ensure the results are valid and accepted for future building or development projects.

How do I interpret the results of a perc test?

1. Check the Drainage Rate

The drainage rate tells you how quickly the soil absorbs water, usually measured in minutes per inch. 

Faster drainage (low numbers) means the soil absorbs water well, while slower rates (high numbers) may indicate poor absorption or compact soil. 

Ideal drainage rates vary by location, but typically, rates between 1 and 30 minutes per inch are best for septic systems.

2. Understand Pass or Fail Criteria

Many local health departments have specific pass or fail thresholds for perc tests. 

If the drainage falls outside the acceptable range, the land may not support a septic system. 

Failing doesn’t always mean you can’t build, but you might need to explore other solutions, like bringing in better soil or trying an advanced septic system.

3. Consider Soil Consistency

Different types of soil absorb water at different rates. 

For example, sandy soil drains quickly, while clay is slower and may fail the test. 

Your perc test results will give insight into the type of soil on your land and whether it’s suitable for wastewater treatment.

4. Look for Signs of Saturation

If the test holes don’t drain properly, it could mean the soil is too saturated or dense to handle additional water. 

This might happen in areas with high water tables or compacted soil. 

If you notice this issue, you may need professional advice to figure out the next steps for using the land.

5. Review Test Accuracy

Sometimes, incorrect results happen because the test wasn’t done properly. 

Double-check that the holes were the right size, water was measured correctly, and times were recorded accurately. 

Understanding how to do a perc test the right way ensures that the results you’re interpreting are reliable and useful for your project.

How can I prepare the site before doing a perc test?

Preparing your site before doing a perc test is an important first step to ensure accurate results. 

Start by clearing the area where the test will take place, removing any large rocks, debris, or heavy vegetation. 

Locating underground utilities or nearby water sources is also a good idea to avoid any issues during testing. 

Next, plan where to dig test holes based on your property layout and local guidelines; typically, these pits are dug in areas where septic systems might be installed. 

Ensure you have the necessary tools ready, including a shovel, measuring tape, and buckets of water. 

Understanding how to do a perc test accurately involves careful planning, so prepping the site beforehand is key. 

Hiring professionals, like licensed testers, may also be required in certain locations to ensure compliance with regulations. 

Consult real estate experts Steve Daria and Joleigh for guidance when buying land for building projects. 

Being prepared and informed can help you save both time and money.

If you’re ready to move forward or need help evaluating your land, reach out to trusted professionals for guidance and solutions tailored to your needs!

**NOTICE: Please note that the content presented in this post is intended solely for informational and educational purposes. It should not be construed as legal or financial advice or relied upon as a replacement for consultation with a qualified attorney or CPA. For specific guidance on legal or financial matters, readers are encouraged to seek professional assistance from an attorney, CPA, or other appropriate professional regarding the subject matter.