Title 5 and Septic System- Before You List Your home in Southeast MA
If your home is on a private septic system, the system must be in compliance with Massachusetts guidelines:
First, be sure you pump your system every year or every 2 years. You've heard the old expression, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. A well maintained system is more likely to pass than on that has deferred maintainence.
If your system has not been pumped recently, you should look into having an inspection by a licensed Title 5 inspector. There are several available in the Greater Taunton area. Call me for a list.
There are 3 basic results of a Title 5 Inspection
Pass-
Fail-( a new system has to be installed)
Conditional Pass- repairs are necessary
Some home sellers think that they should have an offer on their home prior to a Title 5 inspection. This is not a good idea. Home Buyers and buyers agents are reluctant to preview homes without knowing the outcome of the Title 5 Inspection, thus hindering showings and offers. They will see the homes with a passing Title 5 first and may never see yours.
Further, the buyers bank will not finance a home without a passing Title 5 certificate. This certificate must be on record with verified written town approval.
An inspection certificate in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts is good for 2 years.
If your system fails. The title 5 Inspector or your Realtor can usually recommend engineer and an installer. The price of a new septic system can be pricey. I've seen as little as $10,000 and as high as $35,000 or more. I am not an expert in this field, but can recommend professionals in this field. You also should obtain a few estimates to compare.
BEFORE you list your home, address all concerns a buyer may have, and especially this. You will also eliminate the worry of this.
For more home selling tips go to
Selling Your home in a Buyers Market
For Home Sellers in Taunton, Rehoboth, Dighton, Freetown, Seekonk and other cities and towns
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure...
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