If you're looking to buy or sell property in Leelanau County, Michigan, it's crucial to understand the recent septic and well inspection requirements. Effective January 2023, the Benzie-Leelanau District Health Department (BLDHD) mandates a Point of Sale (POS) inspection for properties with private well and septic systems. This rule applies to all property transfers, ensuring that public health and environmental quality are protected through proper system evaluations. Here’s everything you need to know about the new requirements.
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The POS inspection requirement means that properties in Leelanau County with private septic and well systems must undergo a mandatory inspection before they can be sold or transferred. This requirement applies to all property transfers, including those within families, such as parents passing property to children. By mandating these inspections, the health department aims to protect groundwater quality and prevent potential contamination from failing septic systems.

The BLDHD implemented this new sanitary code to address two primary concerns:

The regulation aligns Leelanau with neighboring Benzie County, where a similar code has been in place since 1992.

If you’re planning to sell a property in Leelanau County, here are the key steps:

Start by submitting a Sewage/Well Evaluation Application to the BLDHD as soon as possible. Ideally, submit this application when you sign the listing agreement, giving ample time for the inspection to be completed.

Once your application is submitted, the BLDHD will schedule an inspection with certified officials. Keep in mind that evaluations by third-party inspectors will not meet the requirements of this ordinance.

Attending the inspection is beneficial for sellers. It allows you to gain firsthand knowledge of your property’s condition and address any potential concerns before closing.

It’s important to be aware of the validity timelines for septic and well evaluations:

Properties with both municipal water and sewer connections are exempt from this inspection requirement. However, specific rules apply to properties with a mix of private and municipal systems:

For homeowners with municipal sewer lines, it’s still a good idea to inspect the private sewer line from the home to the main line, as issues like root intrusion remain the homeowner’s responsibility.

Inspection fees vary based on factors like the age of the system and prior inspection history. Sellers must provide a credit card at the time of application, but it will only be charged after BLDHD determines the inspection cost. Sellers have the option to pay by check if preferred. A detailed fee schedule and digital records can be found on the BLDHD website, providing transparency and easy access to existing property records.

For more details, consult the BLDHD’s Environmental Health Digital Records Portal, where you can view records for existing dwellings. If you’re new to this process, attending the inspection and staying informed of your property’s condition is invaluable for a smooth transaction.

In Leelanau County, complying with the POS inspection requirement is essential for property transfers involving private wells and septic systems. This proactive approach helps protect water quality, public health, and the region’s natural resources. As you prepare to buy, sell, or transfer property in Leelanau, following these guidelines will help ensure a seamless process while supporting environmental stewardship in your community.

​For more information on septic and well inspections, visit the Benzie-Leelanau District Health Department’s website. You can also watch the following video for detailed information: