Winnipesaukee Forum - View Single Post - How common are houses with no septic system?

MAXUM · 07-14-2011, 06:19 PM

I've been looking at island property now for about a year and a half and can tell you that of what I've seen at the lower end of the price scale few have an up to date septic system. If one does exist where it doesn't meet current standards make darn sure it was properly permitted at the time it went in and know your options should it fail. Does it affect re-sale, well as a potential buyer I've learned how expensive a fix that can be and how much difficulty there can be meeting the new DES rules enacted in 2008's updated shoreline protection act. Just something to keep in mind as you weigh your decision as it has become a big decision maker for me. The good thing is that the DES is becoming more open to alternative septic systems which can reduce the foot print from a conventional system, but not necessarily the price of installation. Not only that some of these alternatives can be used in areas where other options due to the geography may not be possible. Just remember no matter how challenging the lot with enough money any problem can be solved (usually). I've found that the only way to know for sure what your options are is to do research on your own and call both the town and DES to discuss the exact nature of the system you're about to inherit.

Good luck in your potential purchase!

07-14-2011, 06:19 PM	#5
MAXUM Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: Kuna ID Posts: 2,755 Thanks: 244 Thanked 1,942 Times in 802 Posts	I've been looking at island property now for about a year and a half and can tell you that of what I've seen at the lower end of the price scale few have an up to date septic system. If one does exist where it doesn't meet current standards make darn sure it was properly permitted at the time it went in and know your options should it fail. Does it affect re-sale, well as a potential buyer I've learned how expensive a fix that can be and how much difficulty there can be meeting the new DES rules enacted in 2008's updated shoreline protection act. Just something to keep in mind as you weigh your decision as it has become a big decision maker for me. The good thing is that the DES is becoming more open to alternative septic systems which can reduce the foot print from a conventional system, but not necessarily the price of installation. Not only that some of these alternatives can be used in areas where other options due to the geography may not be possible. Just remember no matter how challenging the lot with enough money any problem can be solved (usually). I've found that the only way to know for sure what your options are is to do research on your own and call both the town and DES to discuss the exact nature of the system you're about to inherit. Good luck in your potential purchase!