Selling a Property with a Septic System - Kitsap Public Health District
Selling a Property with a Septic System - Kitsap Public Health District
Selling a Property with a Septic System - Kitsap Public Health District
You also want an ePaper? Increase the reach of your titles
YUMPU automatically turns print PDFs into web optimized ePapers that Google loves.
The transfer of property from one person to another—called property conveyance—includes an extra step when a developed<br />
property utilizes a septic system. State and county regulations require that the health district regularly inspect all<br />
septic systems. One way we achieve this is through property conveyance inspections, required since 2008.<br />
Completing these conveyance inspections early in the sale process allows ample time to address any deficiencies before<br />
escrow closes<br />
GOT PROPERTY RECORDS?<br />
It is important for the owner to conduct a records search BEFORE beginning to prepare the inspection application. If no<br />
record exists, one will have to be created. You can conduct a search on the health district’s website, or call us for help at<br />
360-337-5235. See the Resources section at the end.<br />
THE PROCESS<br />
When you plan to sell a property <strong>with</strong> a septic system:<br />
1. Check our website to determine if the property has records on file. You will need the property street address and<br />
tax account number.<br />
2. If you do not find any records for the property through the website, call us at 360-337-5235, and request a records<br />
search. For older properties, former street addresses and the names of former owners could be helpful.<br />
3. Make sure there is a current (not more than three years old) septic report or annual maintenance report on file <strong>with</strong><br />
us. If not, contact a health-district-certified pumper or monitoring and maintenance company to schedule this work.<br />
4. Submit a completed application to the health district.<br />
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS<br />
1. Will the health district prevent or prohibit the sale of my property?<br />
No. This discovery-and-disclosure process merely ensures that a septic system is working properly. Our report will<br />
note violations, which are then regulated by the Board of <strong>Health</strong> (see question No. 7).<br />
2. What does the inspection include?<br />
Specialists will inspect the system equipment and complete a records review, site inspection, and code compliance<br />
evaluation.<br />
3. What will the evaluation report include?<br />
The evaluation report is an objective, factual one that includes:<br />
a. A record of approval for installation; when it was approved, and its type and size;<br />
b. Whether the system is function properly and has been maintained;<br />
c. Signs or symptoms indicating a malfunction and how to correct it;<br />
d. Whether the system and the property are in compliance <strong>with</strong> regulations in effect at the time the system was<br />
installed.<br />
4. How long will it take to receive my report from the health district?<br />
You’ll get it <strong>with</strong>in seven business days, regardless of the results of the inspection.<br />
5. How long is the report valid?<br />
It is good for three years if the system remains in compliance <strong>with</strong> Board of <strong>Health</strong><br />
regulations.<br />
6. Will my old system be required to be upgraded to meet current code?<br />
Unless the system is failing or has major health violations (see next question), changes won’t be necessary.<br />
2
Change language