SepticSmart Rebate

SepticSmart Rebate

< Return to Rebates Status: This program is accepting applications for 2022.  

To date, this program has contributed more than $260,000 to maintain septic systems in the RDN. 

Application Forms

Rebate Amount

A maintenance rebate will cover 75 percent of eligible expenses, to a maximum amount:

  • Up to $100 to install an Effluent Filter
  • Up to $200 to install or replace a Distribution Box
  • Up to $300 to install Risers

A $600 repair/replacement rebate is also available to repair or replace an ageing system. Repairs must have a value of over $5,000. This rebate cannot be combined with a rebate for the distribution box, riser or effluent filter.

Eligibility

Note: New construction and tank pump-outs are not eligible for a rebate.

Work must meet all of the following to be eligible for a rebate:

  • Identified as Eligible Work below.
  • Located on a property in the RDN which has not previously received a similar rebate.
  • Performed in the 2022 calendar year.
  • On pre-existing systems originally installed before January 1, 2022.
  • Performed by an "Authorized Person" as defined by the Sewerage System Regulation.

Eligible Work:

Maximum Rebate Eligible Work
$100 Effluent Filter Installation
Effluent filters can prolong the life of your system by keeping solids out of the distribution field. Newer systems may already have an effluent filter. Older systems may be retrofitted to add a filter. Important note: effluent filters must be cleaned regularly.
$200 Distribution Box Installation or Replacement
A properly functioning distribution box will maximize the effective lifespan of the drainfield by distributing effluent evenly to each line and preventing any one line from overload. Overloaded distribution lines may lead to a system malfunction.
$300 Riser Installation
Risers provide surface access to buried components. If you have risers, you have little to no digging to do hereafter, making future pumping and maintenance much easier.
  OR
$600

Repair or Replace an Aging System
Most septic systems last 25-30 years. Eventually, all systems need to be replaced. Repairs or a replacement of your system with a value over $5,000 qualify for this rebate. Cannot be combined with a rebate for the effluent filter, distribution box, or riser.

How to Apply

STEP 1: Submit Pre-approval Application Form

Rebate funds are limited. You may apply for pre-approval before work is done. Once pre-approved, the RDN will reserve funds for eligible work for up to 90 days. You may request an extension to your pre-approval date but funds may be reallocated to another applicant if the pre-approval period expires.

Submit your pre-approval application by:

Email: rcu [at] rdn.bc.ca
Mail or in person: Wastewater Services, 6300 Hammond Bay Road, Nanaimo, BC, V9T 6N2

STEP 2: Hire an Authorized Person to Perform Qualifying Work

Confirm that contractors meet the definition of an Authorized Person before hiring services.

An Authorized Person is a Registered Onsite Wastewater Practitioner (registered through ASTTBC) or a Professional Engineer or Professional Geoscientist (registered through EGBC).

To find a Registered Onsite Wastewater Practitioner:

  • Visit the ASTTBC Website
  • Follow instructions for "HOW TO SEARCH" and filter "Sub-class" for "ROWP"

To find a Professional in your area contact:

  • Visit the EGBC Website
  • Scroll down to find Professionals on "Vancouver Island" 

STEP 3: Pay Invoice & Submit Your Claim

Claims must be received before your pre-approval expires and no later than December 9, 2022. Late claims may not be processed.

Include with your claim:

  1. Rebate Claim Form
  2. Copy of an invoice detailing eligible work
  3. Proof of payment

Submit your claim by:

Email: rcu [at] rdn.bc.ca
Mail or in person: Wastewater Services, 6300 Hammond Bay Road, Nanaimo, B.C., V9T 6N2

Allow 6 weeks for payment.