Request these records
- Original permit, filing, approval and site plan
- Installation or completion certificate
- Tank size, material, age and treatment equipment details
- Pumping, maintenance and repair invoices
- Alarm, pump or electrical service records
- Previous inspection reports
- Any notices, orders, variances or unresolved complaints
Have the system located
Confirm the tank, field, mound, holding tank, pump chamber and discharge piping. Compare their locations with the legal parcel, buildings, wells, waterbodies, driveways and proposed renovation area. A missing or inaccurate sketch creates risk when you later excavate, build or replace the system.
Match capacity to your plans
A system that served a small seasonal cabin may not suit a full-time family, rental suite, home business or added bedrooms. Ask whether the approved design flow fits your intended use and whether the property has a suitable replacement area.
Arrange an independent inspection
Use a qualified local inspector who is not relying only on the seller’s description. Ask for a written scope, photographs, system limitations, repair priorities and estimated next steps. Pumping may be useful when the tank interior needs assessment.
Check the water supply too
Septic and drinking-water risks connect. Test the well water, locate the well and review the separation between the water source and wastewater components. Ask about flooding, high groundwater, spring runoff and past contamination concerns.
Protect the purchase agreement
Discuss an inspection condition with your real-estate and legal advisers. The condition should leave enough time to obtain records, inspect the system, review water results and estimate repair or replacement costs.
Provincial guides
Find a local septic service area
Use the AcreageSeptic directory to find the listed operator for your community, then confirm service type, travel area, timing and current price directly.