How to file a septic inspection report in Arizona

What Arizona requires at property transfer

When an inspection is triggered

Transfer of ownership of a property served by an on-site wastewater treatment facility.

Scope

Statewide transfer-of-ownership inspection of on-site wastewater treatment facilities.

Inspector credentials

Inspection must be performed by a qualified inspector as defined by ADEQ.

Report validity period

Inspection must be performed within 6 months before the transfer of ownership.

Pumping requirement

Verify pumping/tank-access requirements with ADEQ and the delegated county.

Failure and repair rules

Deficiencies found at inspection are disclosed on the Report of Inspection; corrective work follows ADEQ / delegated county requirements.

Exemptions

Verify exemptions with ADEQ or the delegated county.

How the report is filed

Submission method

Buyer submits the Notice of Transfer to ADEQ or the delegated county within 15 days of the transfer of ownership.

Who receives the report

Seller gives the completed Report of Inspection to the buyer at or before transfer. The Report of Inspection is NOT filed with ADEQ or the county.

Copies required

Buyer copy required · Seller copy required · Government filing required

Local jurisdiction involvement

County or municipal rules can add requirements on top of the state rule. Confirm with the approving authority.

Local notes

Many Arizona counties are delegated to administer the program locally.

Official Arizona forms

• Report of Inspection — On-Site Wastewater Treatment Facility (GWS 432)

  Revision Revised April 22, 2021

  Open the official form

• Report of Inspection — On-Site Wastewater Treatment Facility

  Open form

• Notice of Transfer — On-Site Wastewater Treatment Facility

  Open form

Filing checklist for inspectors

1. 1. Confirm the governing authority. Primary source: Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ).
2. 2. Use the correct form. File on the official state form when one exists; otherwise use the form the local approving authority accepts.
3. 3. Document the system. Tank, distribution, drainfield and dated photos, captured in the field so the report is complete on site.
4. 4. Sign and certify. Include the inspector name, license number and title on the certification line.
5. 5. Deliver and retain. Send the report to every required recipient and keep your copy per state record-keeping rules.

Regulatory requirements change and may vary by local jurisdiction. Verify current requirements with the applicable state/local authority. Septic Pro Connect does not provide legal advice. Library entry last verified 08/17/2026.