Certified Wastewater Services Across Gabriola, Nanaimo, Vancouver Island and Gulf Islands

Inspections • Designs • Installations • Maintenance

Certified ROWP | Fully Insured | Locally Owned | Engineering Partnership for Complex Sites

OUR SERVICES

Contact

Get in touch to discuss your septic project and next steps. Most inquiries are responded to within the same business day.

ABOUT

About

Arbutus Septic is a locally owned onsite wastewater company serving Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands. We provide septic installations, inspections, system designs and maintenance services that are practical, code-compliant and built for long-term performance.Services are delivered by a Registered Onsite Wastewater Practitioner (ROWP) with a Bachelor of Engineering and extensive field experience across a range of wastewater systems. For complex sites, Arbutus Septic works in partnership with a Professional Engineer.Professionalism and clear communication are central to how we operate. We work closely with homeowners, builders and regulators to help each project meet current standards while protecting groundwater and the surrounding environment.

Consulting & design

Septic consulting and design for new builds, renovations, suites, repairs, upgrades and difficult sites.

We help homeowners, builders and developers move septic projects forward with practical planning, responsive communication and clear next steps throughout the design process.

Services may include:

  • Site and soils assessment

  • Review of setbacks, wells, slopes and site constraints

  • AutoCAD site planning and layout

  • Septic design for permits and construction

  • Vacant lot septic feasibility assessments

  • Engineering support for complex sites

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installation

Professional septic installations for new systems, repairs and upgrades.

Our installations are completed in accordance with British Columbia’s Sewerage System Regulation and the Ministry of Health’s Standard Practice Manual. These standards are required for building permits, subdivisions, occupancy and suite / addition approvals within British Columbia.Whether you’re building new or replacing an existing system, we provide clear communication throughout the process and work efficiently to keep your project moving forward.

Services may include:

  • New septic system installations

  • Septic system repairs

  • Septic system upgrades

  • Final system certification and occupancy approval

  • Engineering support for complex sites

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septic inspections

Septic inspections for buyers, sellers, homeowners and realtors.

Our septic inspections are designed for real estate transactions, helping buyers and sellers understand system condition, performance and compliance before a major purchase. We provide both compliance and performance inspections to reduce uncertainty and avoid costly surprises.Arbutus Septic uses professional inspection equipment and is familiar with the timelines and reporting needs involved in real estate transactions.

Services may include:

  • Real estate septic inspections

  • Compliance inspections

  • Vacant lot septic feasibility assessments

  • Records and maintenance history review

  • Component locating and documentation

  • Visual and functional assessment

  • Written inspection report

  • System diagram with component layout

maintenance & Repairs

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Maintenance, troubleshooting and repair support for existing septic systems.

We assess system condition, identify maintenance needs and provide practical recommendations to protect system performance and reduce the risk of costly failures. We can also assist clients with accessing applicable septic service rebates available through their Regional District.Our goal is to address issues early and help homeowners understand how their system operates. We work alongside local pumping contractors to ensure tanks are serviced when needed.

Services may include:

  • Septic maintenance assessments

  • System restoration work

  • Filter cleaning

  • Pump and control checks

  • Lateral flushing and jetting

  • Troubleshooting and repair recommendations

  • Pump out frequency recommendations

subdivision septic planning

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Early system planning for subdivision and development projects.

We support subdivision approval by providing comprehensive onsite wastewater assessments in accordance with Island Health’s Subdivision Standards and the BC Sewerage System Regulation.Our assessments are carried out by a Registered Onsite Wastewater Practitioner (ROWP) and include clear documentation of soil depths, percolation results, slopes and setbacks — exactly what Island Health and Approving Officers require for subdivision referrals.We work directly with Environmental Health Officers (EHOs) to support approval of septic locations and provide the detailed site assessments needed to satisfy subdivision review and ensure long-term, compliant wastewater servicing.

Services may include:

  • Site and soils assessment

  • Identify suitable primary and reserve areas for onsite wastewater disposal

  • Review of wells, setbacks, slopes and other property constraints

  • Coordination with Environmental Health Officers (EHO)

  • Written report documenting septic site conditions for subdivision approval

step by step

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our step by step design and installation process

Step 1: Initial Consultation

We begin with an initial consultation to understand your property and how it will be used. This includes discussing your vision for the site, the number of occupants, any planned or existing suites, short-term rentals, or higher-use scenarios such as large gatherings.
We review building plans, anticipated future development, and if the property will be used seasonally or year-round. This information is critical to ensure the septic system is properly designed for long-term performance and reliability.

Step 2: Site Assessment & Soils Testing

A Registered Onsite Wastewater Practitioner (ROWP) completes a site visit to assess property conditions. This includes excavating test pits (observation holes) to evaluate native soil depth and characteristics, and performing percolation tests to assess soil absorption rates.
All variables are documented and form the technical foundation for system design.

Step 3: Customized System Design

Using site assessment data, we develop your site-specific septic system design. Each design is customized to meet your needs and is in compliance with BC’s Sewage System Regulation (SSR) and the Ministry of Health Standard Practice Manual.
Design considerations include soil conditions, setbacks, slopes, treatment level, well locations, easements/covenants, available area for dispersal, future use, and long-term performance.

Step 4: Design Review & Installation Planning

We review the proposed design with you in detail, explain how the system works, and walk through the installation process. An installation estimate is provided, and any questions or adjustments are addressed before moving forward.

Step 5: Filing with Health Authorities

Once the design and estimate are approved, the ROWP prepares and submits the sewerage system filing to the local Health Authority. This filing documents the system design and confirms regulatory compliance prior to construction. This is an important requirement for building permit approval.

Step 6: System Installation

Installation is completed in accordance with the approved design, meeting the BC's Sewage System Regulation and the Ministry of Health Standard Practice Manual. The ROWP provides oversight throughout the process to ensure the system meets all regulatory and design standards.

Step 7: Testing, Certification & Documentation

After installation, the system is inspected and tested. We provide you with:

  • System drawings and specifications

  • A custom maintenance plan specific to your system

  • Documentation for your records and future reference

The ROWP then certifies the system with the Health Authority, completing the process for legal occupancy.

From initial consultation to final certification, our process is designed to provide clarity, compliance, and the best long-term system performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should my septic system be inspected or maintained?
Most residential septic systems should be inspected and maintained annually, depending on system type, usage, and age. Regular maintenance helps identify issues early, ensures system components are functioning properly, and helps extend the life of the system.

Type 1 systems typically require annual maintenance, while Type 2 and Type 3 systems often require more frequent servicing — commonly 2 to 4 times per year. The required maintenance frequency is outlined in your system’s maintenance plan, which is filed at the time of installation.

If you cannot locate your maintenance plan, you can request a copy from your local health authority for a small administrative fee (often around $50).
How often does a septic tank need to be pumped?
Most septic tanks require pumping every 3–5 years. Pumping frequency depends on tank size, household water use, and overall system maintenance. Pumping removes accumulated solids but does not replace the need for regular maintenance or system assessments.
What are the warning signs of septic system problems?
Common warning signs include slow drains, sewage odours, unusually green or wet areas over the drainfield, gurgling plumbing, or sewage backups. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s best to have the system assessed before the issue worsens.
Why do septic systems fail?
When a septic system cannot properly absorb wastewater into the soil, it will begin to fail. This typically shows up in two ways:
  • Effluent surfacing on the ground over the septic tank or dispersal field
  • Sewage backing up into the home (slow drains, gurgling, or backups)
Common Causes of Failure
  • Poor Soil Conditions
    The system may be installed in soil that cannot adequately accept or treat the volume of wastewater generated.
  • Excessive Water Usage
    Systems that are undersized for the home — or subject to high daily water use — can become hydraulically overloaded, preventing proper treatment and dispersal.
  • Soil Clogging (Biomat Overload)
    If solids, sludge, or scum escape the septic tank, they can clog the soil in the dispersal field.
    • Often caused by infrequent tank pumping or poor maintenance
    • Can also occur gradually over time as part of the system’s natural aging process
  • High Groundwater / Water Table
    During wet seasons or due to site changes, groundwater can rise into the dispersal field, reducing its ability to absorb effluent and forcing it to the surface. This is normally caused by an error in design or a significant change to the surrounding landscape.
  • Root Intrusion
    Tree and shrub roots can infiltrate and obstruct pipes, causing blockages. Removal of the plants and clearing the pipes of the roots can sometimes correct the problem.
  • Physical Damage
    Driving or placing heavy equipment over the system can crush pipes, compact soils and damage components, leading to system failure.
    • If you’re noticing any of these symptoms, it’s best to have the system assessed early — many issues can be corrected before full system failure occurs.
Can I drive or park over my septic system?
No. Driving or parking over a septic tank or drainfield can compact soil, damage pipes, and significantly shorten the lifespan of the system. Septic areas should remain free of vehicles, heavy equipment, and structures.
What can't I put down my drains or toilets?
Do not flush wipes (including “flushable” wipes), feminine hygiene products, grease, oils, food waste, chemicals, or harsh cleaners. These materials can damage system components and disrupt the biological treatment process.
Do I need a permit to install or repair a septic system?
In British Columbia, septic systems require a filing prepared by an Authorized Person. An Authorized Person may be a Registered Onsite Wastewater Practitioner (ROWP) or a Professional Engineer with declared competency in sewage systems.

The filing is submitted to the local health authority prior to construction, repair, or alteration. Installations, alterations, and repairs must comply with BC’s Sewage System Regulation and the Ministry of Health Standard Practice Manual.

Working with a qualified practitioner ensures your system is properly designed, filed, and installed in accordance with the regulatory requirements, supporting a smooth approval process and long-term system performance.
How long does a septic system last?
With proper design, installation, and maintenance, a septic system can last 25–40 years or more. Neglect, poor site conditions, or improper use can significantly reduce system lifespan.
What’s included in a septic site assessment?
A site assessment typically includes soil evaluation, test pits, review of setbacks and site constraints, well and waterbody locations, easements / covenants, Development Permit Areas (DPA's), Official Community Plans (OCP's) and identification of suitable system options.
Can a septic system be upgraded or repaired instead of replaced?
In some cases, yes. Targeted repairs or upgrades can address specific issues and extend system life. A professional inspection or assessment is required to determine whether repair, upgrade, or full replacement is needed.
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