ActivitiesNo one should have to worry about the quantity and quality of their water supply. Yet longer periods of drought are causing wells to run dry, and failing septic systems risk contaminating already stressed groundwater and surface water sources.
To help manage the cost of improving these on-site services, the Municipality of Chester has created the Water Supply and Septic System Upgrades Program. This program provides eligible property owners with low-interest loans to improve their on-site systems and ensure access to a clean and reliable water supply.
Who Qualifies
You qualify to participate in this program if you are:
- An owner of a one-unit or two-unit residential property within the Municipality of the District of Chester that is your primary residence; or
- A registered not-for-profit organization within the Municipality.
New construction, properties without an existing water supply or septic system, and properties exempt from paying property taxes are ineligible for this program.
Eligible Upgrades
Various types of on-site water supply and septic system upgrades are eligible for support through this program. If the upgrade repairs or replaces an existing water supply or septic system that's not performing as it should, it's likely covered. Examples of eligible upgrades include:
- Installing a drilled well;
- Repairing a well pump;
- Upgrading a water treatment system; and
- Replacing a failing septic system.
Eligible Loan Amount
The maximum loan amount is $30,000. The Municipality will pay the lesser of either:
- the maximum eligible amount of $30,000; or
- the actual cost of the equipment for the water supply or septic system upgrade, and all associated labour costs, permit fees, and applicable taxes (minus funding from any other source).
Interest
Interest is payable at the rate of 3% annually on any balance owing on the loan.
Loan Administration and Repayment
After the upgrade is complete, the property owner is responsible for sending relevant invoices to the Municipality. Then, the Municipality will directly pay the contractors for the work. The amount owing to the Municipality, including interest accrued, can be paid back by equal monthly installments over a period of not more than 10 years.
Applying
Apply in person by visiting the Municipal Office, 151 King Street in Chester, or by emailing the completed form to our Manager of Finance. Application form and email address are on the right.
More Information
Other general terms and conditions for this program are outlined in the Municipality’s Water Supply and Septic System Upgrades By-Law. More specific terms and conditions will be outlined in the Financing Agreement between a property owner and the Municipality.
