Navigating ADEQ Septic System Requirements for Home Sales in Arizona
If you’re selling your home in Arizona, one important requirement is having your septic system inspected and pumped by a licensed company. The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) has guidelines in place to protect water quality and public health. In this post, we’ll provide an overview of the ADEQ requirements and answer some frequently asked questions.
In Arizona, all on-site wastewater treatment facilities (or septic systems) must be inspected prior to the sale of a home. An ADEQ-licensed inspector will assess the septic tank, drain field, pumps, alarms and other components. Deficiencies must be addressed and repaired prior to property transfer.
In many cases, the septic tank will also need to be pumped as part of the inspection process. Pumping removes built-up solids and allows the inspector to thoroughly check the tank components. ADEQ requires septic tanks to be pumped every 3 to 5 years, so pumping is often needed as part of a home sale.
Proper inspection and pumping protects the new homeowner by ensuring the septic system is in good working order. It also prevents surface and groundwater contamination. Failing septic systems can be hazardous to public health and the environment.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: How soon before closing does the ADEQ inspection need to be completed?
A: Inspections should be completed no more than 90 days prior to the close of escrow. Any identified defects must be repaired before property transfer.
Q: What if problems are found during the ADEQ inspection?
A: Any defects must be repaired prior to property transfer. If you make repairs yourself, you’ll need to have the system re-inspected. Some companies provide repair services.
Conclusion:
Navigating ADEQ’s septic system requirements takes coordination but is an important step when selling your Arizona home. Be sure to schedule the inspection early so any necessary repairs can be made before closing. Contact Black Mountain Septic Services in Cave Creek Arizona at (480) 343-0335 if you need a qualified company to handle your ADEQ inspection and pumping.