EVERETT—New protections will soon be in place for buyers of homes with septic systems in Snohomish County. The Snohomish County Board of Health adopted Ordinance BOH26-02 on April 14 requiring all septic systems to be inspected prior to a property being sold. The measure takes effect November 1, 2026.
“These inspections help protect our environment and public health, ensure septic systems are well maintained, and give homebuyers clear information about the condition of a property,” said Board of Health Chair Megan Dunn. “As we make these changes to come into compliance with state law, we are here to help buyers and sellers meet the new requirements.”
The ordinance brings Snohomish County into compliance with a new state law (WAC 246-272A-0270) that makes such inspections mandatory for all counties beginning February 1, 2027. Neighboring counties such as King, Skagit and Island already require such inspections.
Approximately 2,785 properties with septic systems change ownership each year in the county, according to Snohomish County Assessor records. Snohomish County has about 84,000 private septic systems; many are in unincorporated areas, but a large number also exist in more populated areas such as Lynnwood and Mukilteo.
The new inspection requirement will help protect water quality and reduce pollution from failing septic systems. It will also help protect homeowners from inheriting potentially expensive problems.
“We’ve spent the last year collaborating with partners across the community to design this program,” said Ragina Gray, director of the Environmental Health Division at the Health Department. “We want to make sure the new rules are practical. If you plan ahead, this requirement won’t slow down a home sale.”
The Report of Property Transfer program will require a certified septic professional to inspect the septic system—tanks must be pumped if required. Inspections may be completed up to one year before closing on the home sale. Systems installed within 12 months of the sale are exempt.
The application review is expected to take up to 10 days, and issued reports are valid for 12 months. Fees for the Report of Property Transfer program are $245 in 2026 and 2027; and $255 in 2027 and 2028.
When deficiencies are identified from the inspection, sellers may repair issues and obtain an updated report; unresolved deficiencies will carry forward to the buyer for follow-up.
Through the Health Department’s Savvy Septic program, homeowners can access rebates, grants and expert guidance to keep their septic systems functioning properly.
In the summer and fall, the department will conduct outreach and education for realtors, septic contractors and homeowners to prepare for the new rules.
Author: Mario Lotmore
3 Responses
This is clearly written by the county and the lobbyists who will benefit. Touting all the benefits without addressing those of us who are forced to comply and pay for this.
I feel your pain. The problem is that someone has to pay. These septic systems have to perform to the best of their ability. It is unconscionable to leave problematic septic systems to new buyers that surely have little money left to throw at a surprise like this.
This is not news. Banks have been requiring these inspections and pumpings for a very long time. Snohomish County just found another way to tax the home sales transaction. Bravo. Now Snohomish County gets $250 and slows the home buying process. Anyone buying a home with a septic system has the right to a pumping and inspection, or must sign away those rights. That worked just fine without the $250 tax