Septic System

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Septic Systems

The French are considered the first to use an underground septic tank system in the 1860s. By 1880, two-chamber septic systems were being used in the United States. Today, nearly one in four households in the United States depends on an individual septic (onsite) wastewater treatment system or small community cluster system to treat wastewater.

Onsite wastewater treatment and disposal systems are inspected routinely across the Canada during a real estate transaction.  There are several national associations that have developed standards for the inspection and maintenance of septic systems. 

A septic inspection leads to an inspection report that provides the client with information about the type and condition of the onsite wastewater treatment system as observed at the time of the inspection. Recommendations for further evaluation or corrective actions regarding the systems and components might be included in the report.

It should be the intention of the inspector to provide as much accurate, unbiased information about the septic system’s condition so that the client can make smart, informed decisions. The inspector reports any observed condition that may represent an indication of a malfunctioning system to their client.

A typical septic inspection is:

• An objective evaluation of the onsite wastewater treatment system based upon the inspector’s experience and knowledge;
• An evaluation of each inspected component of the system; and
• A conclusion about the system’s condition.

A typical septic inspection is NOT:

• A warranty or guarantee that the system will properly function for any period of time in the future; and
• A certification of the system’s installation or performance.