Frequently Asked Questions
Registered Evaluators
An individual desiring to be a Registered Evaluator in Barry and Eaton counties is required to fill out the Application to become a Registered Evaluator that identifies their training, credentials, education and relevant experience. The process to become registered is a two step process that first begins with establishing competency and is known as "certification". Ratings for each area of qualification will be awarded toward certification. Once an individual meets the minimum requirements set by the department, they are eligible to take the certification exam. Upon successfully passing both the water and the sewage portions of the certification exam, an individual is allowed to enter the second step of the process or the registration process.
The registration process consists of a one-time orientation class that trains the individual on the specifics of the BEDHD Evaluation & Maintenance Regulation, the minimum evaluation criteria and the web-based software. Registered Evaluators are required to use the web-based software to report the findings of a transfer evaluation (a.k.a. time of sale or property transfer evaluation). Upon successful completion of the registration orientation class and passing a registration exam, Registered Evaluators are issued an user identification and password to access the web based software. BEDHD registration fees are required prior to the orientation class. Proof of general liability insurance must be submitted to BEDHD prior to becoming a registered evaluator.
On-site sewage training is available at the Michigan State University’s Tollgate Center. Go to www.mowra.org and click on the MSU Tollgate Center Schedule button. The class schedule are posted on the above website. Whether or not you have relevant experience with on-site sewage systems, we highly recommend that you sign up for all of these classes.
The Michigan Groundwater Association (MGWA) periodically holds a Well Inspectors Training Course. Go to http://michigangroundwater.com for more information.
Additionally, BEDHD offers annual training courses in on-site water systems and on-site sewage systems to help an individual meet the minimum standards. The dates of these courses are announced at www.barryeatonhealth.org and visit the TOST section.
Reciprocal certification is accepted with several other local county health departments. Reciprocal certification would waive the certification process for those individuals that are already certified by those local health departments. However, the BEDHD certification exam is still required and the applicant must pass the exam. The registration and registration orientation process at BEDHD is required of all, including those individuals that are certified by other health departments.
The certification exam is free. Any outside agencies or entities’ training fees are set by those agencies or entities. A certification course in water supply and septic systems will be offered by BEDHD at $400.00. A course offered by BEDHD in wells only or septic systems only is $225.00 each. The one time registration orientation class and initial registration by BEDHD is $250.00. After the initial registration the evaluators are required to obtain annual CEU's to maintain their registration (specifics under development). A $100.00 annual registration fee to BEDHD is required.
Stay tuned. Please visit this web-site for updates. The above information represents the state of the program at this time. As more information is developed it will be posted on our web site.
Additionally, those individuals interested in becoming Registered Evaluators are urged to contact the BEDHD at 269-945-9516 ext. 35 or 517-543-2430 ext. 25 to be added to our mailing and email list. Be prepared to provide your name, business name, mailing address, phone number, fax number, and email address. That information may also be provided via fax to BEDHD in written form along with a request for information regarding becoming a Registered Evaluator.