Understanding due diligence: Best practice for buying properties with septic tanks
Thinking of moving to your dream home in a rural area? If so, you might be all too familiar with getting excited to view it – only to face the conundrum of a septic tank. But even though septic systems require forethought and compliance, they don’t need to become a deal-breaker.
In some cases, septic tanks are being used in urban areas as a sustainable approach to waste management. But no matter the setting, there are several permits you need to own or keep a septic system. These regulations are put in place to safeguard public and environmental health.
Whether you’re a private buyer or heading a construction firm, it’s always worth knowing about septic tank regulations.
How to ensure septic system compliance: Five steps for prospective buyers
- Verify documentation and legal compliance
Before you commit to buying the property, you should request and physically view comprehensive documentation relating to the septic tank system.
You must ensure that the septic tank system adheres to current and relevant UK regulations. Moving into a property with a faulty or seriously defective septic system could pose serious issues to your health and the surrounding natural environment.
In severe cases, homeowners might be encouraged to turn to solicitors to make claims for septic tank negligence if it seriously affects their quality of life in their new property. But this stress and discomfort can be avoided if legal compliance is verified and guaranteed before the sale.
- Conduct an inspection of the system
From your first viewing, you need to be able to tell if there are any problems with the septic system. If you’re inexperienced or lack the knowledge to be able to identify issues quicky and accurately, you might need to hire a professional septic tank inspector to help you assess the condition of the system.
- Assess the environmental impact
Understanding the potential impact of the septic system on the property and surrounding environment is crucial. Natural ecosystems, biological compounds and the soil around your property will be incredibly sensitive to any leaks from a compromised septic tank.
In certain areas of the UK, overused septic tanks pose a threat to the environment. With some systems close to their limits, residents in Cornwall fear overflowing septic tanks and homes flooding with sewage waste.
You should always ensure that your system is not only compatible but sufficiently sized and constructed to meet future demand.
- Evaluate future budget for repairs or upgrades
Inspecting the condition of the septic tank should give you an idea of the maintenance demands and costs you might expect from the system. From your initial research, you should have an idea of the regular maintenance expectations for each type of system – and whether the system in question is prone to issues.
- Consult a second opinion
Lastly, even if you’ve done everything within your power, it could still be worth seeking a second opinion before you sign the last few pieces of paperwork. As you start to reach the final stages of your own investigation, consult with professionals who specialise in septic tank systems, environmental regulations, and relevant property transactions.
If you have urgent concerns about your new property or you can’t confirm the legitimacy of septic tank documentation, do not hesitate to contact a legal professional in the first instance.
