Northumberland County is now offering septic system re-inspections for property owners with existing septic systems, to ensure these system are functioning within design parameters, safely, and in compliance with environmental standards.
The Ontario Building Code only requires septic systems to be inspected once prior to initial use. In alignment with County By-Law 18-2022, the County is introducing this service so property owners and home buyers can schedule a re-inspection of an existing system, checking for outbreaks of sewage, determining daily loading, inspecting the septic tank, and ensuring there is no pollution to nearby bodies of water or neighbouring properties.
This service is available to all property owners residing in one of the participating municipalities located in Northumberland County, including:
· Township of Alnwick/Haldimand
· Municipality of Brighton
· Town of Cobourg
· Township of Cramahe
· Township of Hamilton
· Municipality of Port Hope
Re-inspections can help detect any potential system issues, allowing property owners to identify concerns and make the required improvements to comply with building code. Re-inspections can also provide potential home buyers with reassurance of a functional and safe septic system, as well as a detailed report to include as part of their mortgage application.
A septic system re-inspection includes:
· A file search to determine if there is a permit record.
· The location of the septic system.
· A comprehensive inspection for potential outbreaks which may include a die test.
· And a detailed inspection report.
Property owners are responsible for repairing any findings of unsafe conditions identified during the inspection.
“Maintaining a safe and functional septic system is essential to protect the safety of your family, the health of our community, and to prevent harmful pollution to our environment and local waterways,” states County Director of Economic Development and Planning Dwayne Campbell. “An unsafe septic system could contaminate waterways and pose possible health risks. It’s important to regularly maintain your septic system, including pumping your septic tank every 3 to 5 years, and ensuring your system is functioning properly.
“Our re-inspection program encourages property owners to take proactive steps to inspect their system and protect their health, home and property, while preserving the integrity of our local environment for generations to come.”
To book a re-inspection, property owners can call 905-372-1929 or email inspections@northumberland.ca. Property owners must arrange to have their septic tank pumped by a septic hauler during the inspection. Fees associated with the re-inspection include payment to the septic hauler for the septic tank pumping as well as a $175 plus HST inspection fee to be paid to Northumberland County, in-person or by phone, at the time of booking.
Please note that septic inspections required as part of the Ontario Building Code, the Clean Water Act, or Source Protection Plans, will be prioritized during the booking process.
For more information, visit Northumberland.ca/Inspections.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
