Inspection Process
Questions

  • Most inspections take between 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on system type, accessibility, and whether documentation review is included. Larger or more complex systems may require additional time to ensure a thorough evaluation.

  • You are welcome to attend, but it is not required. Many clients prefer to review the detailed written report afterward. If you are present, we are happy to walk you through our findings and answer questions on-site.

  • Yes. For our comprehensive inspections, the septic tank lids are opened so we can assess liquid levels, sludge accumulation, baffles, effluent filters (if present), and overall structural condition.

    Opening the tank allows for a more accurate and reliable evaluation.

  • Standard inspections do not include camera scoping of pipes unless specifically requested. If there are concerns about blockages, root intrusion, or line damage, a camera inspection can be discussed as an additional service.

  • If concerns are identified, they will be clearly documented in your report along with an explanation of the issue and recommended next steps.

    We provide honest, straightforward assessments — not alarmist opinions. Our goal is to give you clarity so you can make informed decisions.

  • If we can access the tank we can perform an inspection. If the tank access is buried and the ground is frozen we typically recommend waiting until the ground has thawed.

  • Many septic lids are below grade. We can locate and excavate lids when necessary; however, additional labor charges may apply depending on depth and ground conditions.

    We recommend that homeowners identify or expose lids prior to inspection when possible.

Real Estate and Transaction Questions

  • Some lenders may require a septic inspection as part of their financing conditions, particularly for rural properties or homes not connected to municipal sewer. Requirements can vary depending on the lender and property location.

    We recommend confirming with your mortgage provider early in the transaction process.

  • In most areas of Ontario, a septic inspection is not legally required for resale. However, many buyers request one as part of their conditional offer.

    A professional inspection can help avoid surprises, reduce liability concerns, and support smoother negotiations during a transaction.

  • In some real estate transactions, the buyer arranges and pays for the septic inspection as part of their due diligence.

    However, If it is a condition of the buyers offer, the seller would be obligated to pay for the inspection.

    some sellers choose to obtain a pre-listing inspection to identify potential issues in advance and strengthen buyer confidence

  • Inspection reports are typically delivered within 24–48 hours following the site visit.

    Our reports are clear, structured, and professionally documented, making them easy to share with real estate agents, lawyers, and lenders if required.

  • Yes. The report is provided to the client who ordered the inspection and may be shared at their discretion.

    Many clients provide copies to their real estate agent, lawyer, or mortgage lender as part of the transaction process.

System Performance Questions

  • Common warning signs include:

    • Slow draining sinks, tubs, or toilets

    • Gurgling sounds in plumbing

    • Sewage odours indoors or outdoors

    • Wet, spongy, or unusually green areas over the leaching bed

    • Standing water near the septic area

    • Septic alarm activation (if equipped)

    Early warning signs don’t always mean system failure — but they should be evaluated promptly to prevent costly damage.

  • A properly designed and maintained septic system can last 20–30 years or more.

    However, lifespan depends on:

    • Soil conditions

    • Proper installation

    • Regular pumping

    • Household water usage

    • What is flushed into the system

    Poor maintenance or overloading can significantly shorten system life.

  • Most residential septic tanks should be pumped every 3–5 years.

    Frequency depends on:

    • Tank size

    • Number of bedrooms

    • Household size

    • Water usage habits

    Pumping removes accumulated sludge and helps protect the leaching bed from premature failure.

  • Several factors can negatively impact a septic system, including:

    • Excessive water use

    • Flushing wipes, hygiene products, or grease

    • Driving or parking over the leaching bed

    • Planting deep-rooted trees near the system

    • Poor surface drainage

    • Adding bedrooms without upgrading the system

    Septic systems are designed for specific loading conditions — exceeding those limits can cause long-term damage.

  • No. Despite marketing claims, most “flushable” wipes do not break down properly inside a septic system.

    They can:

    • Accumulate in the tank

    • Damage pumps

    • Clog filters

    • Contribute to system backups

    For septic systems, only human waste and toilet paper should be flushed.

Design and Compliance Questions

  • In Ontario, septic systems are sized primarily based on:

    • The number of bedrooms

    • The calculated daily design sewage flow

    • Soil conditions and percolation rate

    The Ontario Building Code (Part 8) uses bedroom count as a way to estimate expected water usage. Adding bedrooms without upgrading the system may overload it.

  • Not necessarily.

    Because septic systems are designed based on bedroom count, adding a bedroom may require:

    • A sewage system reassessment

    • A potential system upgrade

    • A building permit

    Before renovating or adding bedrooms, it’s important to confirm your system’s approved design capacity.

  • Permit records are typically held by:

    • The local municipality, or

    • The local Public Health Unit (depending on who administers Part 8 in your area)

    If records cannot be located, it does not automatically mean the system is illegal — but it may complicate real estate transactions or renovations.

  • If no records exist:

    • A private inspection can assess current condition and visible components

    • A system may need to be evaluated for size and functionality

    • In some cases, a professional evaluation or redesign may be required before additions or major changes

    Each situation depends on property history and intended future use.

  • A private septic inspection provides a visual and functional assessment of accessible components at the time of inspection.

    It is not:

    • A Building Code compliance inspection

    • A municipal approval

    • A permit sign-off

    Only the Authority Having Jurisdiction (municipality or health unit) can confirm formal compliance under the Ontario Building Code.

  • Septic systems are regulated under Part 8 of the Ontario Building Code.

    Administration is handled by the Authority Having Jurisdiction, which may be:

    • The municipality (Chief Building Official), or

    • The local Public Health Unit

    Regulation and enforcement responsibilities vary by region.

  • In many cases, yes.

    If a system was legally installed under the regulations in place at the time, it may remain in use even if it does not meet current code standards — provided:

    • It is functioning properly

    • The use of the building has not changed

    • No additions increase design sewage flow

    Upgrades are typically required when expanding the dwelling or replacing a failed system.