2023: Changes in Maine Septic Inspection Certification

Maine's Septic Inspection Certification has Updated Guidelines

On September 23, 2023, the Maine Subsurface Wastewater Unit released a revision of the Subsurface Wastewater Disposal Rules, significantly affecting Certified Disposal System Inspectors.

 

Though voluntary outside of the shoreland zone, these changes impose higher service levels for certified professionals. Differing levels of inspection now require clear marking.

 

Key Changes For Certified Inspectors:

• Past certifications are no longer valid. All current inspectors need to pass a new test and earn national certification.
• A Department-provided summary report form is required for each inspection and must be given to the requester.
• Inspectors must measure and note the distance from the disposal system to all drinking water wells on the property.
• The Distribution Box (D-Box) must be located, clean, and level, with any defects or solids present noted in the report.
• For Advanced Treatment Systems, the inspector is required to review maintenance records and contact the service provider.
• The inspection report must be submitted to the local municipality within 60 days.
• If systems in shoreland zones are malfunctioning, it must be reported to the Department's State Site Evaluator and Local Plumbing Inspector within 72 hours.

 

Expect higher inspection costs as the increased scope of work, reporting, and additional filing requirements impact service fees.

 

The Certified Inspection Rules, and complete 2023 Wastewater Disposal Rules are available below.

 

Watch this space and FixMELLC.com at the link below for fee/availbility updates and additional news.