Provides that a certificate be provided for every contract for the purchase and sale of real estate certifying that the property has a functioning on-site wastewater treatment system or a sewer connection and not a cesspool.

Plain-English Summary

This bill would require sellers of real estate in Rhode Island to provide a certificate whenever a property is bought or sold. The certificate would confirm that the property handles its sewage through either a modern on-site wastewater treatment system (like a septic system) or a connection to a public sewer — and specifically that it does not use a cesspool. Essentially, it adds a formal documentation requirement to real estate transactions related to how the property manages its waste.

Cesspools are older, basic pits that collect raw sewage underground without treating it. They are considered a health and environmental hazard because they can contaminate groundwater and nearby water bodies. Rhode Island has been working to phase out cesspools for years under the Rhode Island Cesspool Act of 2007, and this bill would strengthen that effort by making cesspool disclosure a required part of every property sale.

This bill primarily affects property buyers, sellers, and real estate professionals in Rhode Island. Buyers would benefit by having clear, documented assurance about a property's sewage situation before completing a purchase. Sellers would be responsible for obtaining and providing this certificate as part of the transaction process. Properties still using cesspools could face complications in the sale process, potentially requiring upgrades before a sale can be completed.

The bill was recently introduced in the Rhode Island House and referred to the House Judiciary Committee, which has recommended holding it for further study. This means it has not yet advanced through the legislative process.