Then vs. Now: What $1,500 Used to Cover

As one might expect, we get this one a lot. Back in the day, a simple septic tank and three-trench design could cost less than $1,500.00. That would get you the test holes, the Health Inspector’s visit, the excavating work, drain rock, a second visit by the Health Inspector, and backfill. You also got a hastily scribbled site plan—if you were fortunate—showing how many footsteps from the old cherry tree to the septic tank.

Today’s Design Process & Who’s Responsible

Make sure your designer is a Registered Onsite Wastewater Practitioner (ROWP) or an accredited engineer. Today, septic system designs are far more complex and detailed. Health Inspectors are no longer part of the process; they don’t make site visits or consult on design and site work. That responsibility now falls squarely on the septic system designer or planner. Design is a multi-day undertaking that weighs many elements. Much greater emphasis is placed on treatment quality, which is more challenging than the disposal aspect.

Higher Standards, Training & Liability

Over the last 15 years, standards in BC’s onsite wastewater industry have advanced significantly. With these higher standards come increased schooling and certification costs for ROWPs. With inspectors no longer in the picture, responsibility and risk shift to the ROWP. Most ROWPs who design and install systems now carry errors & omissions insurance, which also adds cost.