Upgrading septic systems to current standards
Do you need to bring your septic system up to standard?
We support you from the initial study to final compliance, with or without a municipal financial assistance program.
✔ Compliant with municipal requirements
✔ Administrative support included
✔ Qualified professionals
✔ Local intervention
Why is compliance with standards mandatory?
Bringing a septic system up to standard is a regulatory requirement imposed by municipalities to protect the environment and public health. Over time, some systems become non-compliant or inefficient, which can result in municipal notices, mandatory repairs, or complications when selling a property.
Bringing your system up to standard allows you to:
- Comply with current regulations,
- Avoid penalties and imposed deadlines,
- Protect soil and groundwater,
- Ensure the value and compliance of your property.
Anticipating this process means securing your project and moving forward with peace of mind, with a reliable and compliant system.
Two possible approaches depending on your situation
Upgrading a septic system to meet standards can be done with or without a municipal financial assistance program, depending on your eligibility and preference.
Without financial assistance, you are responsible for all the steps and costs associated with the studies, work, and required documents.
With financial assistance, some municipalities offer partial or total support to cover a portion of eligible expenses. However, this program involves additional administrative steps and specific payment terms.
Identifying the process that applies to your situation from the outset will help you choose the right path, avoid mistakes, and optimize your time and costs.
The stages of compliance
- Verification of proper system operation
- Measurement of sludge and floating matter levels
- Assessment of compliance with standards
- Wastewater acceptance testing
Land characteristics:
- Topography
- Slope
- Physical constraints
Soil characteristics:
- Permeability
- Groundwater level
- Presence of rock
The study will determine the type of system that is compliant and suitable for your land.
- Advantages and disadvantages
- Technical constraints
- Estimated costs
- Durability and maintenance
- Technical plans for the future system
- Detailed estimates for the work to be carried out
- Request for bids (ideally 2)
- Comparison of prices and services
- Selection of contractor
- Submission of the application to the urban planning department
- Obtaining the permit
- Carrying out the work according to the approved plans
- Payment of professional bills
- Direct payment, without financial assistance (in this pathway)
💡 Good to know: a provincial tax credit may apply depending on your situation.
- Issued by the professional who designed the plans
- Certifies that the installation complies with regulations
- Certificate sent to the municipality
Provide a copy of the maintenance contract (when required) and submit it to the urban planning department.
What if you were eligible for financial assistance?
- Pay expenses directly.
In this case, the reimbursement check will be issued in the name of the owner(s). - Send invoices to the municipality.
In this case, the reimbursement check will be issued in the name of the owner(s) and the contractor who performed the work.
Eligible expenses
- Fees related to soil testing, plans, estimates, and compliance certification
- Labor costs
- Material costs
- Equipment costs
Ineligible expenses
- Driveways for vehicles
- Parking lots
- Plantings
- Retaining walls
- Walkways
- And other outdoor improvements
Why entrust us with your compliance upgrades?
Personalized
support
Knowledge of municipal requirements
Network of qualified professionals
Save time and enjoy peace of mind
Your questions, our answers
How much does it cost to bring a septic system up to standard?
The cost varies depending on several factors: soil type, land area, the system to be installed, and site accessibility. In general, bringing a site up to standard can represent an investment of several thousand dollars. A characterization study and detailed estimates can provide an accurate estimate.
How long does the procedure take?
The duration depends on the complexity of the project and administrative delays. On average, it takes several weeks between the site survey, obtaining permits, and completing the work. However, good support can reduce delays and avoid unnecessary back-and-forth.
Is this mandatory during a sale?
Yes. When a septic system is deemed non-compliant with current standards or defective, the municipality may require it to be brought up to standard. This obligation may also apply during a sale, an expansion, or following a municipal or environmental inspection.
Who takes care of the administrative procedures?
Administrative procedures may be handled by different parties depending on the project. The appointed professional (engineer, technologist, or specialized firm) generally prepares the required technical documents, such as the characterization study, plans, and certificate of compliance.
On your end, you may still be responsible for certain steps, such as submitting the permit application or sending the documents to the municipality. However, comprehensive support can simplify these steps and ensure that the file complies with municipal requirements.
Can I choose my contractor?
Yes. You are free to choose the contractor of your choice, provided that they are qualified and that the work complies with the plans approved by the municipality. It is generally recommended that you request at least two quotes in order to compare prices and services.