Are you looking for a new property and the idea of a house not connected to municipal sewers scares you because you’ve never had a septic tank? This article is for you. In Quebec, many properties are not served by a municipal sewer system. It is crucial to know how to take care of a septic tank before purchasing your new home.This comprehensive guide will explain everything you need to know about septic tanks and help you understand the issues and responsibilities associated with buying a property with a septic tank. With the right information, you can make an informed choice and confidently make decisions.

The Challenges of a Septic Tank for Your Future Home

When your future residence is equipped with a septic tank, it means that all the wastewater from the house will be treated on-site. Here’s how a septic tank works:

1. Separation of Materials: Solid materials settle at the bottom of the tank, while liquid materials, such as oils, float to the surface. The water sits between these two layers and undergoes a natural chemical process to filter.
2. Natural Filtration: The filtered water is then discharged into the environment through a leaching field, if the property has one. This field is essential to prevent soil and groundwater contamination.
3. Sealed Septic Tanks: If your house is close to a watercourse or a drinking water source like a well, you will have a sealed septic tank to avoid contamination. This type of tank prevents wastewater from infiltrating drinking water sources.

If you want to learn more about how a septic tank works, we invite you to read our complete article: How a Septic Tank Works

Environmental and Health Impact

Poorly maintained septic tanks can cause serious environmental problems, including contamination of groundwater, soil, and nearby watercourses. This can pose public health risks, including waterborne diseases. It is therefore imperative to ensure that your septic tank is correctly installed and maintained.

Importance of Septic Inspection Before Purchase

Having the septic system inspected by a qualified professional is essential before buying a house. Here’s what is evaluated during the inspection:

• General Condition of the Septic Tank: A professional can detect any issues related to the installation of the tank, such as cracks, leaks, or obstructions.
• Lifespan: Septic tanks have a limited lifespan. The professional will evaluate the remaining lifespan and explain the steps to follow if the tank needs to be replaced.
• Compliance with Standards: Ensuring that the installation meets current environmental and health standards.

Tips for Choosing a Qualified Inspector:

– Member of a Professional Order: Ensure that the inspector is a member of a professional order such as a technologist, engineer, or geologist. This guarantees a certain level of quality and professional accountability.
– Experience and References: Ask for references and choose an inspector with proven experience in septic tank inspections.
– Certification: Verify that the inspector has the necessary certifications to perform this type of inspection.

Regulations and Standards for Septic Tanks in Quebec

Quebec has strict rules regarding septic installations. Before buying a house with a septic tank, learn about municipal regulations and the requirements of the Ministry of the Environment, the Fight against Climate Change, Wildlife and Parks (MELCCFP).

Key Standards to Know

– Minimum Distances: The septic tank must be installed at a minimum distance from water sources, buildings, and property boundaries.
– Capacity and Type of Tank: The capacity of the tank must be suitable for the size of the house and the number of occupants.
– Materials and Construction: The materials used must be durable and resistant to local conditions.

Some municipalities offer financial aid programs for the modernization and standardization of septic installations. These programs can cover part of the replacement or repair costs, which can be a significant financial advantage.

Septic Tank Maintenance

Regular maintenance of your septic tank is crucial to ensure its proper functioning and prolong its lifespan. The frequency of maintenance depends on the size, type, and use of the tank:

– Standard Septic Tank: Pumping every two years minimum or more depending on use.
– Sealed Septic Tank: More frequent pumping, possibly necessary every few weeks depending on use.

Tips for Maintenance:

– Avoid Disposing of Inappropriate Items: Do not dispose of fats, oils, chemicals, or solid objects in drains as they can damage the system.
– Use Biodegradable Products: Prefer biodegradable and phosphate-free cleaning products to reduce the impact on the septic system.
– Regular Inspections: Have your septic tank inspected regularly to detect any signs of problems before they become serious.

If you want to learn more, get advice, and know what to do and not to do when you have a septic tank, we invite you to read our articles: 5 Good Practices for Your Septic Tank and 10 Products to Avoid with a Septic Tank. These articles will provide you with valuable information to properly maintain your septic tank and avoid common problems.

Conclusion

Buying a house with a septic system is entirely feasible and should not deter your decision. It is essential to evaluate the potential repair or replacement costs of the septic tank before the purchase. Hire a qualified professional for a complete inspection and establish a budget for maintenance and possible repairs. Some municipalities offer grants for the replacement of septic tanks, which can alleviate the financial burden.

For any questions or to have the septic tank of your future residence inspected, we invite you to contact our partner Soluo. Their qualified staff can answer all your questions and guide you in your decisions.

Trust Sanivac for your septic tank pumping

Regular maintenance of your septic tank is essential to extend its lifespan. Cleaning the pre-filter and pumping the septic tank are key elements to ensure the proper functioning of your system. Sanivac is your best ally for advice on preventive maintenance and necessary pumpings. To learn more about our septic tank pumping services, visit our service page!

Sanivac and Soluo
Sanivac does not offer inspections or installations of septic tanks. We specialize in the maintenance and pumping of septic tanks. For the installation of septic tanks or an inspection before your next purchase, we recommend contacting our partner Soluo, which specializes in septic installations.

About Soluo:
Founded in 1995, Soluo is a Quebec company specializing in the inspection, design, and work of septic installations throughout Quebec. With a wealth of specialized online content and free support service, Soluo is the true reference in septic installation in Quebec. Each year, more than 500 septic installations are inspected, designed, and installed by Soluo’s 65 experts. Soluo has become an industry leader thanks to its commitment to offering the best support to Quebec customers in their septic installation projects. For more details, visit soluo.com