Septic Inspections In Florida

Advisory Report - July 2003

The state of Florida has changed the laws regarding septic permits, installation, design and inspection. Now, a master septic tank contractor, registered septic tank contractor, or state licensed plumber must perform septic inspections in Florida. The inspection must involve a comprehensive septic tank evaluation, including a pump-out.

These new regulations have made it illegal for home inspectors to perform septic dye inspections, unless the home inspector is also a master septic tank contractor, registered septic tank contractor, or state licensed plumber. Violators of this regulation can be charged with a "misdemeanor of the second degree."

These new regulations were brought about to standardize septic evaluations. The Technical Review and Advisory Panel brought about concerns regarding system failures and general public knowledge of septic systems. Some concern arose in respect to homeowners requesting limited evaluations and environmental concerns, particularly regarding the Florida Keys also influenced these new regulations.