Defined by the State of New Hampshire (NH), a Site Assessment Study (SAS) is a report prepared by a DES-permitted septic system designer that the seller hires to determine if the site meets the current standards for septic disposal systems established by DES.

Prior to executing a purchase and sale agreement for any "developed waterfront property" using a septic disposal system, an owner shall, at his expense, engage a permitted subsurface sewer or waste disposal system designer to perform an on-site assessment study.

"Developed waterfront property" means any parcel of land which is contiguous to or within 250 feet of a great pond as defined in RSA 4:40-a and upon which stands a structure suitable for either seasonal or year-round human occupancy. A great pond is defined in RSA 4:40 as "... A public water body of more than 10 acres." (note that a site assessment study must be conducted whenever any part of the property is within 250 feet of the great pond, not merely when the structure or the septic disposal system is within 250 feet of the water.)

The assessment originally had been required prior to listing or offering the waterfront property for sale, but effective January 1, 1993, it is required prior to executing a purchase and sale agreement.

The Site Assessment Study Process:

1. On-Site Inspection - A site inspection is conducted, but does not require the assessor (permitted designer) dig up the waste disposal system. Based on state regulations, the designer must assess the site for its current use. A survey crew locates all important landmarks, such as wells, septic systems, shoreline and structures.
   
   
2. Plot Plan - A plot plan is created using the field data.
   
   
3. Report - A report is prepared with the designer's conclusion of how the site conforms (or does not conform) to the current requirements of the State of New Hampshire regulations. The number of bedrooms the property can support and what will take place when the existing system fails will be discussed in the report.