Existing System Evaluation Programs

Existing sewage systems may require inspections/site evaluations for a number of reasons, including: 

• Real estate transactions/Home Loan Evaluation 
• A transfer of ownership of a premise with an on-site well and/or septic system 
• Planned increases in wastewater flow to an existing system due to a building remodel or addition 
• Planned increases in a building’s footprint that may encroach upon an existing septic system and/or water well due to a building remodel or addition 
• To obtain an MDARD Food License 

*Average turnaround time for a well and septic system evaluation in 2023 was 6 business days to complete the inspection and 11 business days to issue the report.

During the inspection of an existing sewage system, a Sanitarian will assess the capacity of the existing system and determine compliance with the BLDHD District Sanitary Code. 

Time of Transfer (TOT) (aka Sale) Evaluation 

The Time of Transfer (TOT) evaluation of onsite water and sewage disposal systems is part of the Benzie Leelanau District Health Department’s (BLDHD) - District Sanitary Code (Code).  It states that properties in Benzie and Leelanau Counties with onsite wells and/or onsite sewage treatment systems need to be evaluated prior to the property being sold or transferred to a new owner.  The purpose of this regulation is to protect public health and to prevent or minimize the degradation of groundwater and surface water quality by malfunctioning sewage treatment systems and to assure safe drinking water supplies by the evaluation of the existing sewage treatment systems and private water supply systems prior to the time of transfer.  It is not the intention of this regulation to cause any existing onsite sewage treatment and disposal system or private water supply system, that are in substantial conformance, to be brought into compliance with the construction standards of the Code. Only those that are failing, have a likelihood of degradation of ground water or surface water, or do not meet the approval criteria established by the BLDHD will require corrective action.  A sewage treatment system and water supply that are approved for transfer have been found at the time of inspection, to be adequately constructed and not an environmental or public health concern.   

Change of Use - Remodel Review 

A change in use of a premise which may result in an increase in the generation of wastewater, or its footprint shall not be allowed unless it can be shown that the existing sewage treatment facility is in substantial conformance with the applicable regulations of the District Sanitary Code for the anticipated new use.  A “change of use” would include, but not be limited to, adding bedrooms to an existing dwelling, adding seating in a food establishment, additions to industrial or commercial establishments, construction of garages, and/or outbuildings.  Using a Remodel Review inspection and/or file review, BLDHD shall determine if an existing sewage disposal system is sufficient and adequate to allow the proposed change of use.  A report documenting the results of the review will be supplied to the applicant.