Millions of Americans, especially those who live in rural areas, rely on septic systems for their indoor plumbing needs. While septic systems have a number of advantages over being connected to city water and sewage, there is one downside: mandatory septic compliance inspections in Prior Lake, MN. This post will teach you everything you need to know about compliance inspections, including what you need to do if your system doesn’t pass.
What is a compliance inspection?
As its name implies, a compliance inspection is an inspection that ensures your septic system is up to code. After you’ve had this evaluation, the inspector will either give you a Certificate of Compliance (COC) or a Notice of Non-Compliance (NON).
Ideally, your septic system will receive a COC, which means that it complies with state regulations. Though this certificate doesn’t guarantee that your system will be up to code in the future, it is still valid for three years. There are two types of NONs that non-compliant septic systems can receive: Imminent Threat to Public Health or Safety, or Failing to Protect Groundwater.
I failed my inspection—now what?
Generally speaking, if you receive an Imminent Threat to Public Health or Safety NON, you need to make necessary repairs or upgrade your septic system within 10 months of receiving the NON. If your septic system receives a Failing to Protect Groundwater NON, there will probably be a more specific time period for when you need to take action. This timeframe can vary and is established by your local government. When in doubt, always contact your local authorities for more information.
When are inspections required?
Local governments typically require septic compliance inspections any time there is a property transfer, though there currently aren’t any state laws on the books regarding inspections. Septic compliance inspections in Prior Lake, MN may also be required during area surveys or during lot splits. If you’re purchasing a property, you or your real estate agent can request to have the septic system inspected (which we always recommend). Let’s hope it doesn’t come to this, but you might also need to have an inspection if you receive complaints from your neighbors.
Who can perform compliance inspections?
It should go without saying that you need to have experience in the septic industry and be certified to perform compliance inspections. State agencies don’t want just anyone inspecting a septic tank, as not everyone will know what to look for in a failing septic system. Licenses to inspect septic systems are given by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency to businesses that pass qualification exams and demonstrate that they know what they’re doing during an inspection.
If it’s time for a compliance inspection, don’t choose anyone other than our pros at Mike’s Septic & McKinley Sewer Services to tackle the job. Reach out to us a call today to get a quote, to set up an appointment for an inspection or to learn more about all of our septic services. We look forward to assisting you soon!