The septic system business has traditionally been a quiet little industry. With the tremendous amount of emphasis on Green and the accompanying government regulations; it is now a high profile, high profit industry with many companies positioning themselves for the new opportunities available.

The amount of septic systems that were being installed took a dip over the nineties as many cities extended their sewer systems. Tight budgets have now made the expansion of infrastructure a tougher option and currently North American wide, about 30% of new homes have a septic system. Probably more important is the fact that systems installed 20 years ago have met their life expectancy and now need replacement. Home Owner's are looking for the most inexpensive solution as replacement systems can be in the $8,000 to $12,000 range with new systems in the $10,000 to $15,000 range.

The latest government regulations implemented by the BC Government in June of 2005 have effectively spun off to just about every other province and state; vastly changing the way septic systems are: Manufactured, Distributed, Marketed, and Installed.

Current Status of the Septic Industry in BC

A home owner is not legally allowed to do anything to their septic system. Any work performed on a system must be done by a CERTIFIED ROWP ( Registered Onsite Wastewater Practioner). An ROWP must take courses specific to their involvement in the industry and there are certifications for septic system activities involved in:

Courses for these certifications are offered by government approved training centres. Registration of the certifications are by ASTTBC (Applied Science Technologists and Technicians of BC). As a component of their certification, participants of the program must be a member of BCOSSA (BC OnSite Sewage Association). The course content is based upon the SPM (Standard Practice Manual) a large document that comprehensively states all things involved in the design, installation, and maintenance of septic systems for BC.

Products used for the construction or repair of a septic system must meet specifications as outlined in the Standard Practice Manual. It is the job of the Planner / Designer to be aware of the latest specifications to meet government regulations. You may click here >for a complete and up to date list of Planners and Installers< and for >BC Professional Engineers<.

For further Technical Information Please see > Technical Sales Information<

Jim Ripley (250) 863-8372