The truth behind Commerce township Property Transfer Septic Ordinance (or Septic Inspection Program)
Commerce Township's septic inspection program was created with a good goal: protecting local water bodies and helping ensure safe property transfers. Unfortunately, what I'm seeing in the field raises serious concerns about whether the program is actually accomplishing those goals.
Many buyers assume that because a septic system has passed the township's required inspection, the system has been thoroughly evaluated and that they are protected from major defects. In reality, the required inspection form is extremely limited and does not provide a comprehensive evaluation of the septic system.
Even more concerning, there appears to be little oversight to ensure inspections are being performed properly. I recently evaluated a system that had reportedly been inspected by two previous inspectors. Numerous items on the reports were incorrect, and the condition of the system strongly suggested that critical components had either been overlooked or not evaluated at all. As a result, the homeowner may now be facing a septic system replacement costing well into the tens of thousands of dollars—and potentially over $50,000 due to the property's small lakefront lot and the challenges associated with replacing a system in that setting.
The concern isn't that inspections are required. The concern is that a limited inspection can create a false sense of security. When buyers, sellers, lenders, and real estate professionals see a passed inspection report, they often assume the system has been thoroughly assessed when that may not be the case.
If we truly want to protect homeowners and our local waterways, inspection standards should be meaningful, inspectors should be held accountable, and the process should provide accurate information about the actual condition of the system.
A piece of paper doesn't protect homeowners. A thorough inspection does.
If you're purchasing a home with a septic system, don't assume a township-required inspection tells the whole story. Consider having an independent, comprehensive septic inspection performed to better understand the condition of the system before closing. If you have questions about a septic system or would like a more thorough evaluation—even if a township inspection has already been completed—contact Advanced Well & Septic Inspections.
