Percolation test
An Essential Step Before Installing a Septic System
Before building a home or installing an onsite wastewater treatment system, a percolation test is an essential first step. Also known as a site and soil evaluation or soil permeability test, this assessment is required to design a septic system that complies with local regulations and is suited to your property’s soil conditions.
Why Is a Percolation Test Important?
A percolation test evaluates the physical characteristics of your property, including:
- Soil permeability and drainage capacity
- Soil composition and structure
- Natural site conditions and constraints
- The most suitable location for a septic system
This information is essential for selecting the best septic system for your property while ensuring compliance with municipal and provincial regulations.
A properly completed evaluation also helps determine the optimal location for your septic system, maximizing its efficiency, longevity, and environmental performance.
What Does a Percolation Test Involve?
Although testing methods may vary from one company to another, the objective remains the same: to determine whether your property is suitable for an onsite wastewater treatment system.
A typical percolation test includes:
- An evaluation of the different soil layers found on the property
- A site survey that considers natural and regulatory constraints, such as nearby wells, watercourses, buildings, property lines, and setbacks
- A soil permeability test to measure how quickly water infiltrates the ground
Once the testing is complete, you will receive a detailed report. In most cases, this report is required by your municipality before issuing a building or septic system permit.
A Valuable Report for Your Project
Your percolation test report generally includes:
- A complete analysis of the site’s characteristics
- Soil test results
- Recommendations for the most appropriate septic system
- Engineering plans and specifications
- The recommended location of the septic system components
All onsite wastewater treatment systems must comply with the applicable environmental regulations.
More Than Just a Septic System Assessment
A percolation test is also an important planning tool for other projects on your property.
At Puits Bernier, we use the information provided in the report to help determine the optimal location for an artesian well or a geothermal system, ensuring that all required setback distances from septic systems, neighbouring wells, and adjacent properties are respected.
Preparing for Your Site Visit
To help ensure an efficient site evaluation, please have the following documents available when the technician arrives:
- Your property survey (certificate of location)
- Or your cadastral or site plan showing the property boundaries
These documents allow for a more accurate assessment and facilitate the planning process.
Looking for a Percolation Test?
While Puits Bernier does not perform percolation tests, we work closely with trusted professionals who specialize in this service.
We would be happy to recommend a qualified company and answer any questions you may have regarding your future artesian well, geothermal system, or overall site development project.
Contact our team today to learn more or to receive a trusted referral.
