05/09/2015
Gwen's Tip of the week:
When a House is sold with a Septic System, is an Inspection required?
YES. As of July 1, 2006, the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) rules require ANY person transferring a property serviced by an on-site waste treatment facility like a Septic System, to have an inspection of the alternative waste system performed by a qualified inspector.
What is the time frame for a Septic System Inspection?
The inspection must be done not more than 6 months prior to the transfer of ownership by the Seller.
This requirement applies to any property served by a Septic Tank with Leach Fields .
Most systems will require pumping before inspecting.
Note: No Inspection/Pumping is required for new build home construction that has an ADEQ permitted Septic system. But the Notice of Transfer form must still be filed.
Here is the link to ADEQ web site that has All of the information that you need including authorized inspection companies.
http://www.azdeq.gov/environ/water/engineering/not.html
Once the inspection and/or pumping is performed, then the BUYER must obtain a copy of the inspection report and the transfer documents from the SELLER. Then the Buyer /Transferee is responsible for filing the documents of inspection and transfer with the ADEQ. Some title companies will file the transfer electronically.
Note: If system was constructed/operated prior to Jan.1, 2001, then the Notice if Transfer is filled with ADEQ. If after that date, the Notice of Transfer must be filed the appropriate County Environmental and /or Health Department.
Call for more information on where to file for:
Maricopa County - 602-506-6666
Pima County - 520-243-7400
Want to see a diagram and explanation of how a Septic system operates?
Click on this link: (this is on the HomeSpec web site/Helpful Info.)
http://www.homespecaz.com/docs/septicsystemownersguide.pdf
Arizona's statewide inspection program for on-site wastewater (septic) treatment facilities began on a limited basis in January 2002. On July 1, 2006, Arizona Administrative Code (A.A.C.) R18-9-A316, extended the inspection requirement to all on-site systems whenever ownership of the property change…