How to file a septic inspection report in Massachusetts

What Massachusetts requires at property transfer

When an inspection is triggered

Transfer of title of a property served by an on-site sewage disposal system (Title 5).

Scope

Statewide Title 5 inspection at transfer of title of property served by an on-site system.

Inspector credentials

Inspection must be performed by a MassDEP-approved System Inspector.

Report validity period

Inspection is generally performed within 2 years before transfer. A report is valid for 2 years, or 3 years when the system has been pumped annually.

Pumping requirement

Verify pumping requirements with MassDEP and the local board of health.

Failure and repair rules

Systems that fail Title 5 criteria must be upgraded/repaired under MassDEP and local board of health requirements.

Exemptions

Certain transfers between family members are exempt (for example, transfers between spouses, between parent and child, and between full siblings). Inspection timing may also be adjusted for weather conditions, and different rules can apply to foreclosure and bankruptcy transfers. Verify each case with MassDEP and the local Board of Health.

How the report is filed

Submission method

Completed MassDEP Title 5 Official Inspection Form is submitted to the local Board of Health within 30 days of the inspection.

Who receives the report

Buyer receives a copy of the completed official form; the local Board of Health receives the filing.

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

Local boards of health administer Title 5 and may impose additional requirements.

Official Massachusetts forms

• Title 5 Official Inspection Form — Subsurface Sewage Disposal System

  Revision Rev. 5/19/2026

  Open the official form

• Title 5 Official Inspection Form — Subsurface Sewage Disposal System

  Open form

Filing checklist for inspectors

1. 1. Confirm the governing authority. Primary source: Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP).
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.