Certification Programs for Inspection of Onsite Wastewater Systems at Time of Sale: The Missouri and Iowa Experience.

Programs for the certification of professionals to perform assessments of existing onsite wastewater systems at time of sale have been developed in Missouri and Iowa to assist in getting failing systems repaired, protect home buyers, and protect the environment and public health. The Missouri program consists of two assessments: 1.) an inspection and 2.) evaluation. The inspection is the more comprehensive of the two assessments in that digging, taking measurements, performing a hydraulic loading test and a possible tracer dye assessment, as well as exposure of system components are mandated. An evaluation is a visual and sensory walk over the system. The Iowa program contains a comprehensive assessment similar to the Missouri inspection. Both inspection assessments possess forms focused on specific system components and technologies. An assessment of a system in Missouri is initiated by the buyer or lender while in Iowa every system must be inspected prior to transfer of deed. Prerequisites, certification course content and testing plus continuing education requirements for both programs are presented. Number of systems assessed in each state is presented.