How to file a septic inspection report in Maryland

What Maryland requires at property transfer

When an inspection is triggered

A property-transfer inspection (PTI) of an on-site sewage disposal system.

Scope

Property transfer inspections performed under the MDE on-site sewage disposal system program.

Inspector credentials

Inspection must be performed by an inspector recognized by MDE / the local approving authority.

Report validity period

Verify current validity period with MDE and the local approving authority.

Pumping requirement

Verify pumping expectations with MDE and the local health department.

Failure and repair rules

Deficiencies and failures are documented on the official MDE form; repair/permit requirements are handled by the local approving authority.

Exemptions

Verify any exemption with MDE and the local approving authority.

How the report is filed

Submission method

Completed official MDE form provided to the client; retain the completed form for 5 years.

Who receives the report

Provide the completed official MDE form to the party who requested the inspection; copies as directed by MDE and local authority.

Copies required

Buyer copy required · Seller copy 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 approving authorities (county health departments) administer the program and may add requirements.

Official Maryland forms

• MDE Standard Inspection Form (Property Transfer Inspection) (OSDS-PTI)

  Open the official form

• MDE Standard Inspection Form (Property Transfer Inspection)

  Open form

Filing checklist for inspectors

1. 1. Confirm the governing authority. Primary source: Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE).
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.