Septic systems are an important but often overlooked part of real estate transactions, especially in rural areas surrounding Medicine Hat and throughout Alberta. Whether you’re buying or selling a property with a septic system, understanding its condition will help you avoid unexpected repairs and costly replacements. A properly maintained system can last decades, while a failing one can lead to financial and legal headaches.
This article outlines the importance of septic system inspections in real estate transactions, who is responsible for arranging them, what they include, and how they impact property valuation and negotiations.
Who Is Responsible for Arranging the Inspection?
In most real estate transactions, the homebuyer or their real estate agent arranges the septic inspection. While not legally required in Alberta, many lenders insist on an inspection before approving financing for rural properties. A thorough evaluation provides peace of mind for buyers and can help sellers avoid unexpected deal-breakers during negotiations.
What Does a Septic Inspection Entail?
A proper septic inspection should be comprehensive, covering key system components, including:
- Septic tank – Checking for leaks, structural integrity, and sludge levels.
- Drain field – Assessing water absorption, signs of failure, and soil conditions.
- Pumps, filters, and alarms – Ensuring all mechanical components function correctly.
- System age and condition – Evaluating expected lifespan and evidence of past maintenance.
In Alberta, inspections should account for weather-related factors, such as freezing conditions, soil saturation from spring melt, and shifting ground due to frost heave. Inspectors look for potential cold-weather damage and advise on necessary repairs before winter.
Who Pays for the Inspection?
Typically, the buyer will cover the cost of the septic inspection, while the seller is responsible for septic pumping or cleaning before the sale. Some sellers choose to conduct an inspection proactively to ensure their property is market-ready and to prevent surprises that could delay closing.
Why It’s Wise for Buyers to Insist on a Septic Inspection
Buying a home with a failing septic system can be a financial disaster, especially when replacement costs in Alberta can be well over $50,000. An inspection is essential, especially if a home’s system is over 15-20 years old. Many financial institutions require it before approving a mortgage on a rural property.
A failing system might not be obvious, especially if the current owners use less water than the new buyers might. For example, an older couple selling a four-bedroom home may have minimal septic usage, but a large family moving in could quickly overwhelm a failing system.
How Septic Inspections Can Impact Negotiations
Septic inspections are a powerful tool in real estate negotiations. If an inspection reveals significant repairs are needed, buyers can:
- Negotiate a lower price to account for future repairs.
- Request that the seller make the necessary repairs before closing.
- Decide to walk away from a property with a failing system.
On the seller’s side, providing a recent septic inspection report demonstrates transparency, builds buyer confidence, and helps justify the property’s price.
Why Home Inspectors Are Not Always Qualified for Septic Inspections
In Alberta, septic systems fall under the Private Sewage Systems Regulation. Most home inspectors do not hold the Private Sewage Certification (PSTS) required to perform a full septic evaluation. While they may conduct a visual inspection, this is not enough to assess the entire system.
A proper septic inspection should include:
- Tank integrity & capacity
- Field condition & drainage assessment
- Pump, alarm & filter functionality
- Setback distances from water sources & structures
- Sludge & scum levels
- Signs of leaks, infiltration, or damage
Always hire a certified septic inspector with experience in Alberta’s unique climate and soil conditions for an accurate assessment.
Protect Your Investment with a Professional Septic Inspection from Septic Medic
Whether you’re buying, selling, or maintaining a rural property, a thorough septic inspection is essential to avoid costly surprises. At Septic Medic, our certified technicians provide detailed assessments, ensuring your system functions properly and meets Alberta’s regulations.
Don’t make an investment without the whole picture. Schedule a septic system inspection today and gain peace of mind knowing your septic system is in expert hands. Contact Septic Medic today to book your inspection!
