Reminder to homeowners considering selling: get your septic system inspected

WASHINGTON, D.C. – (RealEstateRama) — An important reminder for property owners with septic systems in St. Louis County who are considering selling their home between now and next summer: get your septic system inspected now before the ground freezes.

“Our best advice for people, even if they’re only considering a possible move over the winter, is to get your system checked now,” said Mark St. Lawrence, St. Louis County Environmental Services Director. “Having a certificate of compliance will help the sale process go more smoothly. Most septic systems in the county are in compliance, and it’s always a good idea to make sure your system is functioning as it should.”

County ordinance requires a point of sale compliance inspection to ensure that septic systems identified as Non-compliant or Imminent Threat of Public Health receive necessary upgrades in a timely manner. As part of the point of sale requirement, any property conveyance that occurs when a septic inspection isn’t possible due to frozen soil conditions requires a Transfer Agreement, which includes an agreement to complete a compliance inspection by the following June 1, and a copy of an escrow agreement to ensure the funding of a replacement system if the inspection indicates one is needed.

If, once the septic system is inspected and it’s to be in compliance, the existing system does not need to be upgraded and the escrow account is absolved upon notification from the Environmental Services Department. If the septic system does not pass inspection, a permit application and replacement design must be submitted and the system upgraded within the time frame specified in the ordinance.

To learn more about the county’s septic system ordinance, or to find a list of licensed inspectors, visit stlouiscountymn.gov/septic or call the Environmental Services Department at (218) 749-0625