Frequently Asked Questions

1. When Are Inspections Required?

Septic system inspections are required whenever the title for a building with a septic system is transferred, other than between family members, or when the footprint or use of the building is changed.

2. When Must Inspections Be Done?

Inspections must occur before title transfer, except when weather makes this too difficult. Then a written agreement may allow a delay until the weather improves. Inspections are valid for 2 full years. We recommend inspections in warmer and drier times of the year.

3. How Is the Inspection Performed?

Homestead Inc will carefully excavate the specified components of your system to minimize impact on your landscaping. However, some landscape disruption is nearly always required and landscaping / reseeding may be needed following our inspection. The septic tank Inlet ports, Outlet ports and distribution boxes, if any, must be opened and certified. The average inspection takes about 2 hours. Older systems without documentation may take longer. Your knowledge or documents may help us expedite the inspection.

4. What Does Homestead Do?

Homestead can provide all necessary services, including research, coordination, excavation, water testing (if required), as-built documentation, and the report distribution.

5. What Does It Cost?

Title 5 Inspection fees are between $700 for simple or modern shallow systems and $900 for systems with deeper components (the $900 service includes mini-excavator services)

Perc Test service is $700 for Repair Perc Tests and $900 for new construction Perc Tests. Perc Test Service does NOT include excatation cost.

Many Towns also require a Board of Health Witness fee which is typically paid by the customer. Additionally Perc Test Excavators & Septic Tank Pumping (optional) is typically arranged by the customer.

Homestead Inc. can provide water testing, facilitation of Town fees, contracting of 3rd party services like septic pumping or large excavator services (Perc Tests) and other services at additional cost.