It was very interesting to hear last week at our builder and realtor roundtable that one of the biggest issues facing builders currently with new developments is waste water and storm water management. Both issues are similar and details are below.
Many townships are insisting on language in the deeds that allows them to demand that there are easements relating to septic systems, septic systems be inspected every two to three years, that township inspectors be present when the septic system is inspected, escrow funds, and even repair where necessary when systems are defective with the home owner responsible for the repair costs. Whilst there are good reasons for this, many older defective septic systems are beginning to leak and cause problems and the townships have no authority to act, some of the levels of language used give the homeowner no room for bidding the job out to find the best price. Each township is setting its own demands and there are no guidelines in place in Chester County or elsewhere for builders to use on a consistent basis. These issues are being dealt with now by builders who are being forced to include this language by each township but it is also going to be raised when these homeowners come to resell these homes and realtors and prospective buyers need to be aware that these items are in the deeds as it can make a homeowner liable for unexpected bills.
Storm water management has become a big issue for townships as they have become more aware that water needs to drain slowly to refill aquifiers under the ground rather than just be drained away and lost. However, as one builder explained last week he now budgets more for storm water management that for waste water management. Once again townships are insisting on regulations that are not consistent from township to township and what needs to be addressed is are they asking builders of new construction to build to a standard that is too excessive? Also care and ongoing inspection of these storm water management systems is going to be a cost for future owners if these systems are damaged or broken and need repair. Again different townships are demanding easements to allow access, inspections and repairs as related by these builders.
Let me know your opinion on this as it will be an on-going issue in the future as these easements and inspection rights will be deeded with the property.
