Septic System Permit

Our septic system failed inspection during the sale of our home. This was in January. We have had an engineer working with us for over 6 months. The township still has yet to issue a permit. They have been coming back to our engineer for over 3 month asking for changes that weren't asked for before. The person in charge of the Health department making these requests of our engineer is not an engineer, yet she can tell our engineer it's not right. The system that is currently in place was installed 7 years ago and went through a permiting process with the same township. If they would have been this picky then we would not be replacing the system now. We have copies of the soil testing form 7 years ago and present. Our engineer has told us the tests could not change that much in 7 years. The township was present at both soil testings as required by NJDEP. Do we have a case against our township? This has become a mojor finacial burden on us.

Lawsuits against cities, townships, counties and states are always tricky. Make sure you know the proper procedure prior to filing. Some citie and towns require that you file a claim with their "risk management" department or similar agency. After they deny your claim they issue you a right to sue letter and then you may proceed.

Were the changes they demanded in writing? If so you might be able to argue that they failed to state demands in ititial writing thus costing you more money in the long run. You will want to speak to an attorney in your area to discuss your options.