Grand Traverse County — certified evaluations for property transfers near surface water
Effective January 2026: Grand Traverse County now requires a certified evaluation of well and septic systems for any property transfer within 300 feet of surface water (lakes, rivers, streams). If you're buying or selling a qualifying property, this inspection is required before closing.
If you're selling a home in Grand Traverse County that has a septic system and is located near a lake, river, or stream, you'll need a time-of-transfer evaluation before the sale can go through. The same applies if you're buying — the evaluation protects you from inheriting a failed system.
The evaluation includes a visual inspection of the septic tank, a dye test to check for leaks, and an assessment of the drain field condition. We provide a full written report that meets Grand Traverse County Health Department requirements and can be submitted with the property transfer documentation.
Our certified inspectors perform a thorough evaluation including: tank condition and structural integrity, baffle and filter condition, effluent level assessment, dye testing for leaks or backups, drain field visual inspection, and system documentation for county compliance.
If you're planning to sell or are in the process of buying a property in Grand Traverse County, don't let the inspection hold up your closing. Call us to schedule your time-of-transfer evaluation.
We're certified to perform GT County septic evaluations. Call to schedule.
(231) 555-0199