Septic System Information
We have a Biomicrobics FAST system, which is a newer type of system
Unlike a conventional septic system, which in theory never needs to be pumped this system does need to be pumped every 1.5 – 3 years depending on the usage. However the advantage is that it limits solids to the drainfield.
Your HOA dues cover the $150 yearly septic inspection fee, and the ongoing nitrogen tests every 3 years.
In addition to the $150 inspection fee, the county also charges an ADDITIONAL $150 (est) yearly fee for an operational certificate since we have an “enhanced” system. This fee is paid directly by the homeowner to the county.
The system was installed by RNJ Trends a local company. They sold the business to Bay Shore Construction in 2021 and then again 2023 to Envirotech. They do the yearly inspections of every system through our maintenance agreement with them. The maintenance agreement is mandated by the County. They also do nitrogen tests every 3 years.
Inspections – Every October
In the month of October, Envirotech will do inspections of every septic system. In order to keep costs down, they must do 10-15 inspections per day. It is not feasible for them to contact and set up appointments with us. During this time, they will show up between 8am and 5pm and inspect your septic system which is in your front yard. They also require access to your backyard during this time to inspect the drain field ports. If the gate is locked at the time they will leave a note. But they must have access. If they have to return at a later date to inspect, there will be a service fee charged to the homeowner in the amount of $175.00 plus tax. If the return at a later date for inspection and nitrate testing, the service fee to the homeowner will be $325.00 plus tax.
The results of the inspections are not sent to you, you only receive a letter if there is a DEFICIENCY, i.e. needs to be pumped etc. However, you can view the report online at www.onlinerme.com. When at the site, scroll to the bottom and click on REPORT SEARCH, enter Thurston County, your street number and street name, and click Submit Search. Your homesite information will be displayed. To view recent inspection results, click Service History under Site Work History on the left side. When viewing inspection results, you will have the option to have future inspection results emailed to you by clicking on the following: To receive an email when a report is submitted click here.
These inspections are required by Thurston County and must be done yearly.
Why do we need this system?
Keanland Park lies in close proximity to sensitive wetlands. In order for development to proceed, “enhanced septic systems” were required. We must exercise extreme caution on what enters our septic systems and retention ponds to safeguard the environment and our drinking water. Annual septic and water inspections are important to ensure wetland protection and clean water.
Septic Fees and Potential Costs
$150 – Yearly Inspection (paid in your HOA dues)
$150 – Yearly Certificate Fee (paid by homeowner)
$210 – Nitrogen test (every 3 years paid in your HOA dues)
$425 – Septic Pumping (every 1.5 – 3 years paid by homeowner)
Possible maintenance expenses:
$700 – Air Pump replacement (every 7-10 years paid by homeowner )
$800 – Affluent Pump replacement (every 10-15 years paid by homeowner)
$35 – Float replacement (every 7-8 years)
As you can see there are several ongoing costs for your septic system. If we calculate a yearly cost based on the long term items your yearly sewage cost is about $700-$900 per year depending on when the wear items need replacement and how often you need to pump your septic system. This works out to about $60-75 per month which is on par with a public sewer system.
As an HOA the septic inspections are our responsibility. However the deficiencies found, maintenance, pumping and care of the system is up to the homeowner.