"Title 5"

             Septic system inspection

There are a limited number of municipal sewer systems in Berkshire County; therefore, your dream house may be equipped with its very own septic system. In the Environmental Code, the section commonly referred to as Title 5, the State requires an inspection of all Septic Systems located within the boundaries of the property being sold.

The good news is the buyer does not have to pay for or do this inspection. The seller is required to hire the inspector. An inspection must be conducted by a DEP approved System Inspector, who is observed by the local health inspector. If the system fails inspection, it will need to be repaired. The repair in most cases will be completed before the closing, unless circumstances prevent it from being done, such as the seller’s inability to pay for the repair. With the Buyers consent, an addendum will be negotiated to the purchase and sale agreement, directing the repair be completed, as soon as practical after closing. It is recommended that the holding tank, usually 1000 gallons, be pumped every three years, the inspection may also require it for further evaluation, hence the truck. So cleaning starts even before you buy!

 Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection:  Bureau of Resource Prevention