Livingston County Septic Laws: What Homeowners Need to Know Before Selling Their Home

If you're thinking about selling your home in Livingston County and you're on a septic system, it’s important to consider the state of your septic system. We like to tell people to think about their septic system like they would think about any of the other major appliances that help their house function smoothly.

Septic systems are out of sight and often out of mind, until the title company or home inspector brings them right back into view. Here’s what every homeowner in Livingston County should know before listing their house for sale.

1. Livingston County Septic Inspections: Are They Required?

While Michigan doesn’t have a state-wide septic inspection requirement when selling a home, many counties and townships do have point-of-sale rules, and Livingston County is no exception in some municipalities.

Several local townships (like Green Oak and Hamburg) have ordinances that require septic and well evaluations prior to the sale or transfer of a property. Even if you're in an area without a mandatory inspection, most lenders and buyers will request one as part of the closing process.

It’s better to be proactive than blindsided by a deal falling through at the last minute.

2. What Does a Septic Inspection Involve?

A standard septic inspection in Livingston County will typically include:

• Tank location and condition

• Pumping history

• Drain field performance

• Signs of failure (like surfacing or backup)

At Anything Outdoors Septic & Excavating, we can help locate and expose lids for inspection, and we also assist real estate agents and homeowners in understanding what their system needs before the buyer’s inspector gets involved.

3. What Happens If My Septic System Fails Inspection?

If your system is failing (meaning it’s backing up, leaking, or the drain field is saturated), the sale could be delayed, the buyers could offer less money or ask for money toward the installation of a new system, or the sale can be canceled.

The good news is you might not need to replace the whole thing.

The RioVation BioMaze System is a modern rehabilitation option that we offer to bring older or underperforming fields back to life without a full replacement. In many cases, this prevents the need to replace their system. 

4. Can I Finance Repairs or Replacement?

Yes. For full system replacements or upgrades, we offer financing, or you may qualify for Michigan Saves. Michigan Saves is a state-sponsored financing program that helps homeowners afford energy-efficient and environmentally responsible improvements, including septic systems.

We’re happy to walk you through the process and help determine if your project qualifies.

5. Bottom Line: Don’t Let Your Septic Surprise You

Selling your home is stressful enough. Don’t let your septic system sabotage the process. Whether you're in Howell, Brighton, Pinckney, or anywhere else in Livingston County, we're here to help guide you through inspections, repairs, system rehab options, or new field installs.

Give us a call before you list (517) 295-7757. We’ll make sure your septic doesn’t hold up your sale!

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice. Anything Outdoors Septic & Excavation does not provide legal guidance, and readers should consult a qualified attorney or their local health department for advice regarding Livingston County septic regulations or any legal matters related to selling their home.