The Commonwealth of Massachusetts requires certification of the septic system at time of title transfer, change of use or expansion. Cesspools can still pass state criteria. Each town may initiate more stringent requirements.
The inspection is a “snapshot in time” and does not certify the system as adequate for current or future use of the system. The inspector determines if the system is a threat to health (such as current or previous signs of hydraulic failure) or environment (such as lack of separation from groundwater or wetlands) using the information gathered.
At a minimum, the covers on the septic tank or cesspool are uncovered to obtain interior measurements and check the structure. The distribution box, if there is one, is viewed by excavation or remote camera. Depending on the age of the system, the condition of the distribution box or other relevant factors, the inspector may need to observe the leaching. This is especially true for systems with overflow cesspools.
Any information provided to the inspector, such as an installer’s “as-built”, engineered plan and/or a previous Title V Certification, helps the process. Access, at least to the basement, is important.
Cesspools are required to be pumped out as part of the inspection. For septic tanks, pumping could be required, recommended or not needed.
The Certification is currently a seventeen page DEP supplied form that is filed with the local health department within thirty days of system inspection. It is valid for two years. If the system is pumped annually, the certification is valid for three years.
Please fill in the inspection request form and return it to us as soon as possible. Receipt of your deposit and the form confirms the inspection.
Voluntary/informal inspections are available to assess your system without filing an official seventeen page certification with the local health department.
TITLE V INSPECTORS
MASSACHUSETTS DEP
APPROVED
