New information June/2006:

* ADEQ rule governing transfer of ownership inspections for on-site wastewater treatment facilities can be found at www.azsos.gov/public_serves/Title_18/18-09.htm (scroll down to AZ Administrative Code R18-9-A316).

* A qualified inspector must fill out the Report of Inspection form and be given to the trasferor of the property. The form is available at www.azdeq.gov/environ/water/permits/download/presale.doc.

* The transferee of the property must fill out a Notice of Transfer form and file with ADEQ. The form is available at www.azdeq.gov/environ/water/permits/download/inspection.doc.

MORE INFO: Consult with local environmental or health agency for detail about inspection procedures currently in effect. Obtain copies of permits for the on-site system plus relevant operation and maintenance information. Permitting documents will tell you if it is a conventional septic system or one of the alternative systems. Look for red flags; was there a final inspection and sign-off for approval to operate? Is it a 4 bedroom home with a system designed only for 3 bedrooms? Is there a garbage disposal and was the system approved for use of that appliance? Compare the system's site plan; is there a driveway, home addition, or a building that could be on top of the tank or part of the disposal field. More information should always be obtained than just having it pumped and inspected before closing.