In March of 1995, changes to the State Sanitary Code (Title V) require each homeowner to have his/her septic system inspected when they sell their house. In 1995, the Chelmsford septic system inspection failure rate was 35% and the average septic system repair cost was $20,000.00.


Average cost of connection to sewer system is approximately $2,500 - $4,000 for connection.

See: HOW TO CONNECT TO THE PUBLIC SEWER

Advantages of connection to public sewer system:

w Drinking water protection...Failing and inadequate septic systems allow partially or untreated wastewater to reach our groundwater which is the source of 100% of our drinking water.

w Surface water protection...Those same failing and inadequate septic systems pollute our streams and ponds and contribute nutrients that choke ponds and lakes with weeds.
 
w Relief from costly Title 5 Septic System Repairs.

w Sustained Property Values...According to Chelmsford Realtors a home is worth more and is easier to sell if it has the availability of public sewers.

w Incentive for economic growth...In the 1990's mutiple businesses relocated to Chelmsford and the commercial/industrial vacancy rate has steadily declined to below 10%. Many of these industries were attracted by the availability of public sewers. The resulting economic and tax benefits for the town, although difficult to quantify, have been significant.

w High bond ratings...The sewer project's substantial, yet stable debt retirement schedule, combined with an efficient betterment assessment revenue program, has made Chelmsford municipal bonds attractive to investors. As a result, Chelmsford has benefited from excellent bond ratings and lower borrowing costs.