FAQS
We’ve compiled a list of common questions to help you through the process.
Please contact us if you have any other questions and we’d be happy to help!
Do I need a septic design to get a building permit?
Yes. In BC, in order to submit a building permit application, you must have an approved Sewerage System Design filed with your local regional health authority. The design must be done by a Registered Onsite Wastewater Practitioner (ROWP) or Professional (Engineer).
How do I get a Letter of Certification (LOC)?
Once the septic system is installed and tested to the satisfaction of the designing ROWP or Professional, they must file a Letter of Certification within 30 days of completion.
Can I install my own septic system?
Homeowners in BC are allowed to install their own septic systems, however, they must be under the direct supervision of an ROWP or Professional. It is our experience that after all is said and done, the savings to the homeowner are negligible. This is due to the learning curve that requires time and money.
How much will my system cost?
Like many things, the answer is: It depends. Many factors go into the cost of a septic system to ensure that it meets all regulations. The most important ones being site restrictions, material costs, and its capacity.
The design process will determine what soils and water table characteristics your site has; The size of building and number of bedrooms determine the size of the system required.
Contact us to find out more!
Can I just get a holding tank instead of a septic system?
Most health authorities consider this solution on a case by case basis.
The holding tank will need to be designed by an ROWP or Professional, a monthly contract with a local septic service company will need to be signed prior to approval, and your community must have a government dump station.
It is our experience that the cost of having your tanks pumped on a regular basis will far exceed the cost of installing a complete septic system.
Is an electrician required for the install?
A certified electrician is required to hook up alarms, floats and pumps to your home’s electrical panel. We have a working relationship with a number of electricians in the area, and can arrange for the work to be done.
How do I get started?
Contact us today and we will give you a FREE consultation!
Once you’re ready to move ahead with the process, we will send you a Homeowner Declaration to fill out. This will include the square footage of your home and the number of bedrooms in it. If you are a business owner, it will let us know what type of business and what type of usage we are designing your new system for.
We will then set up a day to dig test pits and collect soil samples that are sent to a lab for analysis. We will also perform permeameter tests to determine what rate your soil accepts water. From there, we create the design and submit it to your local health authority.
Once we receive approval from your health authority, we collect a deposit for materials and schedule your system’s installation. After the installation is complete and final payment is received, we submit a Letter of Certification to your local health authority and you are ready to go!
North Blue Septic 