The Essential Guide to Buying a Home: Understanding Septic System Inspections

pzmija Uncategorized April 29, 2024arthur, buying a home, Conn, Durham, grey county, Harriston, Holstein, home ownership, minto, mount forest, Neustadt, plumbing, Pump Septic, septic, Septic Pumping, wellington county, Wellington North

Congratulations on your decision to buy a home! As you embark on this exciting journey, it’s essential to consider all aspects of the property you’re interested in, including the septic system. While a septic system might not be the most glamorous feature of a home, it plays a crucial role in its functionality and value. Here’s everything you need to know about septic system inspections when buying a home:

Why Septic System Inspections Matter: A septic system inspection is a vital part of the home buying process, especially if the property relies on a septic tank for wastewater management. This inspection helps identify any issues with the system, such as leaks, blockages, or structural damage, which could be costly to repair if left unchecked.
When to Schedule the Inspection: It’s crucial to schedule a septic system inspection as part of your due diligence before finalizing the purchase of a home. Ideally, this inspection should take place after you’ve made an offer on the property and it has been accepted but before closing. This timing allows you to uncover any potential issues and negotiate repairs or adjustments with the seller if necessary.
What to Expect During the Inspection: A qualified septic system inspector will conduct a thorough assessment of the entire system, including the tank, distribution lines, drain field, and any associated components – that can be visibly seen when the tank is pumped. They will look for signs of deterioration, damage, or malfunction, such as standing water, odors, or lush vegetation over the drain field. The inspector may also perform tests to check the system’s functionality and capacity.
Potential Red Flags to Watch Out For: During the inspection, be on the lookout for any signs of trouble with the septic system. These may include slow drainage, gurgling sounds from drains, sewage odors, or wet spots in the yard. Additionally, if the property has a history of septic system issues or if it’s been several years since the system was last inspected or pumped, it’s especially important to thoroughly evaluate its condition.
Negotiating Repairs or Replacements: If the septic system inspection reveals any issues, you’ll need to decide how to proceed. Depending on the severity of the problems, you may negotiate with the seller to cover the cost of repairs or replacements as a condition of the sale. Alternatively, you may choose to walk away from the deal if the issues are too significant or if the seller is unwilling to address them.
Future Maintenance Considerations: Once you’ve purchased the home, it’s essential to prioritize ongoing septic system maintenance to ensure its longevity and proper function. Regular pumping, inspections, and responsible usage habits can help prevent costly repairs down the line and protect the value of your investment.

Septic system inspections are a critical step in the home buying process, providing valuable insights into the condition of the property’s wastewater management system. By understanding the importance of these inspections and knowing what to expect, you can make informed decisions and ensure a smooth transition into your new home.

If you are looking at a property and would like an experienced operator to pump and provide a visual inspection – give us a call today 519-323-2000!

Selling Your Home? Don’t Forget to Pump the Septic Tank!

pzmija Uncategorized April 22, 2024arthur, Conn, Durham, grey county, Harriston, Holstein, minto, mount forest, Neustadt, Pump Septic, septic, Septic Pumping, wellinton north

Are you gearing up to put your home on the market? From staging to curb appeal, there are numerous factors to consider when preparing to sell. However, one often overlooked aspect is the maintenance of your septic system. While it might not be the most glamorous part of home ownership, ensuring your septic tank is in top condition can make a significant difference when selling your property.

Here’s why pumping your septic tank should be on your to-do list before listing your home:

Boost Your Property’s Value: A well-maintained septic system is a sign of a well-cared-for home. Potential buyers are more likely to be interested in a property with a properly functioning septic system, as it indicates that the home has been taken care of. Regular pumping and maintenance show that you’ve invested in the longevity and functionality of your property.
Prevent Last-Minute Surprises: Imagine having a potential buyer ready to make an offer on your home, only to have the deal fall through because of a septic system issue discovered during the inspection. Regularly pumping your septic tank reduces the risk of unexpected problems arising during the selling process. It’s better to address any issues proactively rather than dealing with them when time is of the essence.
Ensure Smooth Inspections: Home inspections are a standard part of the home buying process. A failing septic system can be a red flag for buyers and might lead to negotiations or even scare them away entirely. By pumping your septic tank before listing your home, you can provide potential buyers with peace of mind knowing that this critical aspect of the property has been taken care of.
Compliance with Regulations: Depending on where you live, there may be regulations or requirements regarding septic system maintenance and inspection before selling a property. Failing to comply with these regulations could delay the selling process or even result in legal issues. Pumping your septic tank ensures that you’re meeting any local requirements and can proceed with the sale smoothly.
Demonstrate Responsibility: Taking care of your septic system isn’t just about selling your home—it’s about being a responsible homeowner. Regular maintenance not only extends the lifespan of your septic system but also helps protect the environment by preventing leaks and contamination. By showing potential buyers that you’ve prioritized septic system maintenance, you’re demonstrating your commitment to responsible home ownership.

Its smart to not overlook the importance of pumping your septic tank before selling your home. It’s a simple yet crucial step that can make a significant difference in the selling process. By ensuring your septic system is in top condition, you’re not only enhancing the value of your property but also providing peace of mind to potential buyers. So, before you put that “For Sale” sign in the yard, be sure to schedule a septic tank pumping—it’s an investment that pays off in more ways than one.

Give us a call today to book your septic pump – we not only pump we do visual inspections as well for all kinds of home and property sales! Call 519-323-2000

Spring Septic Pumping

pzmija Uncategorized March 12, 2024arthur, Ayton, Clifford, Durham, Free flowing, grey county, Hanover, Harriston, Holstein, minto, mount forest, Neustadt, Palmerston, Pump my septic system, septic, Septic Pumping, septic system, Septic System Pumping, Southgate, Teviotdale, wellington county

Our spring septic pumping is well under way – did you know we actually pump all year round!

It helps having a knowledgeable operator who has worked along side our plumbers and heating tech’s for years – he knows the in’s and out’s of your homes in’s and out’s!

Call today to get on our septic pumping list to ensure you are flowing freely all year 😉

Reliance Requests Formal Inquiry under the Competition Act into misleading and abusive practices in door-to-door water heater rental sales

pzmija JJ McLellan December 20, 2012business, Grey-Bruce, Hot Water Heater Rentals, minto, mount forest, National Hot Water Heaters, Reliance, Reliance Home Comfort, Southgate, Wellington North 0 Comment

Update: Our company chose to no longer do business with Reliance in 2013. We are able to provide our customers with affordable, reliable heating and cooling options by owning their own equipment!

We received the following information from Reliance Home Comfort this morning. Please be advised that we are passing this information on as we are Service Agents for Reliance and this company mentioned (below) has also not only been misrepresenting Reliance but also have told customers in our service area that we would be doing the service for these National hot water heaters. To reassure our own customers and our customers through Reliance Home Comfort please be advised that –
We have NOTHING to do with National – never have and never will.

Below is from Reliance…

Reliance Requests Formal Inquiry under the Competition Act into misleading and abusive practices in door-to-door water heater rental sales

Earlier this week, we shared news that Reliance is suing National for using unfair practices and misleading representations including door-to-door selling practices that mislead customers. Today, the company issued the attached media release to announce that it has participated in a formal six person complaint under Section 9 of the Competition Act that alleges that National and MorEnergy have breached the misleading provisions of the Competition Act.

We believe that taking action against these unlawful practices should be the priority of the Competition Bureau as these practices need to stop. Reliance’s participation in this formal complaint is part of our continued commitment to take a leadership role in cleaning up the industry and eliminating misleading sales practices by some of our competitors to the detriment of our customers. Reliance is working with the Ontario Ministry of Consumer Services on proposed regulatory amendments that will address many of the tactics used to mislead consumers approached by door-to-door sales people.

While I remind you that as a Reliance employee, it is inappropriate to speculate about or speak to the specifics of the company’s action against National, we do encourage you to advise your friends, family and neighbours to make them aware of any door knocking activity in your neighbourhood. Customers who feel they’ve been misled are encouraged to contact the Ministry of Consumer Services directly.

__________________________________________________________

Request for Formal Inquiry under the Competition Act into misleading and abusive practices in door-to-door water heater rental sales
Toronto, December 19, 2012 – Reliance Comfort Limited Partnership today announced that it has participated in a formal six person complaint under Section 9 of the Competition Act that alleges that National and MorEnergy have breached the misleading advertising provisions of the Competition Act.
Under Section 10 of the Competition Act the Commissioner is required upon application by six or more persons to undertake a formal inquiry and consider enforcement action. The Commissioner must also provide a formal report upon completion of the inquiry to the Minister of Industry, the Honourable Christian Paradis, who may require the Commissioner to undertake a further inquiry.

“We believe that taking action against these unlawful practices should be the priority of the Competition Bureau as these practices need to stop,” says Roger Rossi, President and CEO, Reliance Comfort Limited Partnership.
Consumer complaints regarding door-to-door tactics of some competitors are well documented:

Ontario Superior Court
 In July 2012, the Ontario Superior Court recently found that certain of National Home Service’s door-to-door sales tactics constituted a breach of section 52 of the Act. The relevant decision, Direct Energy Marketing Limited v. National Energy Corp, 2012 ONSC 4232 can be viewed at http://www.canlii.org/en/on/onsc/doc/2012/2012onsc4232/2012onsc4232.html.

Ontario Ministry of Consumer Services
 The Ontario Ministry of Consumer Services reports that water heater sales practices were the third most received consumer complaint in 2010 and were the subject of the second most received complaints in 2011. The Ministry reportedly received some 2,518 complaints in 2011. In 2012 complaints about water heater rental sales continue to be the second most frequent source of complaints to the Ministry. The Ministry has issued a Consumer Alert – Hot Water Rental. This alert is available on the Ministry’s website: http://www.sse.gov.on.ca/mcs/en/Pages/Consumer_Alert_Water_Heater.aspx.

 The Ministry has confirmed that it received120 separate written complaints about National’s practices in the first 10 months of this year.

Better Business Bureau
 The BBB reports that as at December 14, 2012, the BBB reported on its website that in the last three years it had received 103 complaints concerning National Home Services’ advertising and sales practices. A business alert contained on the site stated:
o BBB files indicate that this business has a pattern of complaints concerning misleading sales practices. Consumer complaints allege that door-to-door sales persons are misleading consumers, providing false information and using high pressure sales tactics. This company [National] was notified of our concerns on June 7, 2011. They have failed to correct the underlying reason for the complaints.

 As at December 14, 2012, the BBB reported on its website that in the last three years it had received 21 complaints concerning MorEnergy’s advertising and sales practices.
Police involvement

 In May of this year the Toronto Police Service issued a press release indicating that two salespersons acting on behalf of MorEnergy had been charged with attempted fraud for claiming they worked for Enbridge gas and advising the homeowner’s that there was a problem with their water heater to coerce them into signing a contract with MorEnergy. The Toronto Police Service issued the press release because they believe there were other victims of these fraudulent practices.

Generally, the issue of aggressive and misleading door-to-door sales tactics being used to sell hot water rental agreements in the Ontario markets is so profound that various community police services have issued public awareness statements, including:

 Toronto Police Service;
(http://www.torontopolice.on.ca/financialcrimes/enercare-know_your_rights.pdf)

 Halton Regional Police; (http://www.hrps.on.ca/PublicAffairs/Newsroom/Lists/MediaReleases/DispForm.aspx?ID=1941)

 Kingston Police Service; (http://www.police.kingston.on.ca/kpfrecentnewsarchivec17.php?command=viewArticle&ID=194&currentFeed=1)

 Ontario Provincial Police (Orillia);
(http://www.orilliapsb.ca/News%20Releases/Water%20Heater%20Scam%2016%20Nov%202009.pdf)

 Ottawa Police Service; and (https://www.google.ca/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=3&ved=0CE
wQFjAC&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.munsteronline.ca%2Fimages%2FO.P.S.Activity%2520Update%25202011%2520Article%2520Mar%252011%2520to%2520Mar%252017.doc&ei=CZTLUP-GGO2u2AX-noGgBw&usg=AFQjCNEITp9xNatSWK_Re2xpAaY5YO9ZaA&bvm=bv.1355325884,d.b2I)

 Ontario Provincial Police (Peel). (https://www.enercare.ca/sites/default/files/Beware%20of%20Knock%20on%20your%20Door.pdf)

A number of companies have undertaken consumer awareness campaigns in response to the problem to help educate consumers on their rights. These include: http://www.burnedatthedoor.com; http://www.hotwaterfacts.ca; http://www.ignorethedoor.ca

Reliance’s participation in the formal complaint is part of a continued commitment to take a leadership role in cleaning up the industry and eliminating the misleading sales practices used by some of its competitors to the detriment of Ontario’s consumers. Reliance is working with the Ontario Ministry of Consumer Services on proposed regulatory amendments that will address many of the tactics used to mislead consumers approached by door-to-door salespersons. On December 17th, Reliance commenced an action against National Energy Corporation (National Home Services) in the Ontario Superior Court alleging unfair practices and the use of misleading representations during the door-to-door sales process. Reliance believes these practices contravene the Consumer Protection Act and the Competition Act.

Reliance is a Canadian company with its head office in Toronto and employs approximately 1100 people across the country. Reliance offers two core product areas to its over 1.6 million residential and commercial customers: Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning (HVAC) and Security Services. Reliance Home Comfort provides retail sale, rental, service and maintenance of heating, ventilation and air conditioning equipment. Its water heater rental business, based largely in Ontario, is the largest in Canada. Reliance Protectron Security Services, the second largest security provider in Canada, provides security system sales, rental, installation, service, monitoring to homes and businesses across the country. Visit www.reliancehomecomfort.com to learn more.

Media Contact:
Linda Smith
416-457-1814

Working in Rural Wellington – Living here is good, Working here is great!

pzmija Help Wanted, high school, JJ McLellan October 24, 2012apprenticeship, arthur, high school, JJ McLellan, minto, mount forest, northern wellington young professionals, wellington county, working in rural wellington 0 Comment

We are at the “Working in Rural Wellington” event tonight to showcase opportunities we have within our company currently and also what it takes to work in the Plumbing and HVAC trades!

There is still time to come on over… also be sure to sign up for the Northern Wellington Young Professionals as well (they have some awesome food and a handy gift 😉 )

We are hiring for a gas technician!