Frequently Asked Questions
All Your Questions, Clear Answers to Guide You.
At Perco-Design, every project comes with its share of questions. That’s why we’ve gathered answers to the most frequently asked ones here.
What will my architectural plan be used for?
An architectural plan will serve several purposes:
To accurately plan the layout of your future construction.
To help you clearly visualize the interior layouts and the exterior appearance.
To help obtain accurate quantities and quotes from contractors.
To obtain your building permit.
For future reference in case of building modifications.
To protect you in case of contractor errors.
Etc.
How much does an architectural plan cost?
The cost of an architectural plan varies based on several factors:
The type of plan required (2D, 3D, with color renderings, virtual tours, etc.).
The complexity of your project.
The number of changes you make throughout the process.
The more prepared you are, the faster the final result will be delivered.
Etc.
We prepare our plans on an hourly basis. At the beginning of the project, an approximate budget estimate will be presented based on the type of plan required and your level of preparation. Drawing on our more than 30 years of experience, we will do our very best to provide an estimate that reflects the usual average.
In some cases, the final total may be lower than the estimate, and in others, it may be higher when the process becomes longer or more complex than initially expected.
We believe that a construction project is a major financial investment, and that the architectural plan is the foundation of a successful project. For this reason, it is wise to invest a reasonable amount in a high-quality plan.
A real estate broker who sells a $500,000 home typically charges an average commission of 5%, or $25,000.
A Technologist, on the other hand, usually charges between 1% and 2% of the value of the home.
How long should I allow for the completion of my plan?
As every project is unique, the timeline will vary depending on its complexity, the client’s level of preparation, and the time required at each stage to review the plans and provide feedback or request changes.
The fastest projects can be completed in as little as one month, but on average, the process takes more than three months. This allows enough time to properly evaluate the options, optimize the plan to its fullest potential, and make informed decisions.
Do your plans bear a professional seal?
Yes, with the seal of the Ordre des technologues professionnels du Québec (OTPQ).
Are you a member of a professional order?
Yes, we are members of the Order of Professional Technologists of Quebec (OTPQ).
Are there copyright protections for architecture?
Yes, in Québec, the work of Technologists, Architects, Technicians, and Designers is protected under the Copyright Act.
This law defines how their plans and other documents may be used, as well as the situations in which their rights may be infringed.
For example, a plan cannot be reproduced in its entirety from a magazine or a website. Images may be used for inspiration, but not for copies that are too closely based on an existing plan.
Do you also handle commercial projects with an architect?
Yes, we collaborate with architects on larger-scale projects that require an architect’s seal.
Do you offer complementary services, such as site inspections?
Yes, we offer hourly consultation services with either a Technologist or a Technician. These services include advice, site visits, site inspections, project management, and more.
Do you offer budget estimation services?
Yes, we work with partner estimators who provide budget estimation services.
These services can be used even before starting a project, to help determine feasible square footage and design options, or after a preliminary plan is completed. Our partners can establish realistic budgets and guide you through the financial aspects to help you avoid investing in a plan that later needs to be redone or modified to meet your budget.
These services are offered on an hourly basis and are highly appreciated by the clients who use them.
Do you carry professional liability insurance?
Yes, this very important requirement is mandatory for members of the Order of Professional Technologists of Quebec (OTPQ).
Why choose a Technologist rather than a technician or designer?
A Technologist offers several advantages over a technician or designer, such as:
A professional seal on the plans (often required by certain municipalities).
Professional liability insurance for your protection.
A professional order that regularly inspects its members and ensures they meet industry standards and maintain high-quality services.
A Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct applied for your protection and to ensure best business practices.
Advanced expertise in structure and construction.
Ongoing continuing education is required.
A more affordable cost than an architect for residential projects.
Etc.
What does Feng Shui specialization bring to our architectural plans?
Our technician, specialized in Feng Shui, brings significant added value to every project. She combines traditional architectural expertise with a deep understanding of Feng Shui principles, creating spaces that go beyond simple functionality to promote harmony and well-being.
What software do you use to design your plans?
We use AutoCAD for 2D plans and Revit for 3D models. For color renderings, we mainly use Lumion Pro, as well as image-editing software such as Photoshop. These complementary tools ensure accuracy, efficiency, and seamless collaboration within our team.
Do you have any usage tips to help extend the lifespan of our installation, or other helpful information to share with us?
Here are a few helpful tips:
It is recommended to use low-flow toilets and faucets to reduce the amount of wastewater entering the leaching field. It is also best to spread household water use throughout the day rather than discharging large volumes in a short period of time.
Installing a food grinder with an independent septic system is prohibited. It is only permitted when connected to a municipal sewer system.
Proper maintenance of your prefilter is essential. It helps reduce the risk of clogging in the leaching field and extends its lifespan. The prefilter traps fine particles suspended in the water that were not captured by the septic tank.
Adequate drainage can make a significant difference for a leaching field. If your property does not appear to drain well, do not hesitate to contact us or learn about possible drainage solutions and the standards to follow, such as the required distance between a drain and a leaching field (5 meters minimum). If you choose to install a permanent ditch, it must be properly maintained to prevent it from filling up.
Certain land uses are not compatible above or near a leaching field and must be avoided. Examples include: snow-cleared areas in winter, ice rinks, planting shrubs or trees, driving or parking heavy vehicles such as cars, or planting trees with long roots—such as willows—near the leaching field.
If a residence is not occupied year-round during the winter, the leaching field may freeze. It is therefore recommended to cover it with leaves or straw in the fall.
No one may build a new isolated residence or add a bedroom to an existing or new isolated residence unless it is equipped with a system for the disposal, collection, or treatment of wastewater, toilet waste, or household wastewater in accordance with the Regulation respecting the disposal and treatment of wastewater from isolated dwellings (Q-2, r.22).
Anyone intending to build an isolated residence or a septic system must obtain a permit from the local municipality before starting construction.
Is it mandatory to perform this percolation test?
For several years now, this has been mandatory across Québec. If you wish to purchase a property that is not serviced by municipal sewers, a notary will often require a percolation test to be completed before the transaction in order to confirm the feasibility of installing a septic system on the property.
Does a septic system require maintenance?
Yes, although maintenance is minimal and varies depending on the type of system. This information is outlined in our quotes (technical specifications).
All septic tanks must now be equipped with an outlet prefilter. This prefilter must be cleaned twice a year. We offer email reminders to our clients to help them remember to clean their prefilter in the spring and fall.
Some systems, such as advanced secondary and tertiary treatment units, require a maintenance contract with the manufacturer or an accredited professional (Écoflo, Bionest, Hydro-Kinetic, System O, etc.).
Will this test damage my land?
Because Perco-Design’s equipment is portable and the boreholes are small, the test has the advantage of not damaging the property, as the holes can be refilled after the percolation test.
What exactly does the study allow us to determine?
It mainly allows us to determine the following:
The nature and properties of the existing soils.
The soil’s level of permeability (absorption capacity).
The depth of groundwater and bedrock, insofar as they affect the design and construction of a septic system.
All of this is done to ensure the feasibility of a septic system and to determine which type is required, in accordance with the Regulation respecting the disposal and treatment of wastewater from isolated dwellings of the Ministère de l’Environnement, de la Lutte contre les changements climatiques, de la Faune et des Parcs (Q-2, R.22).
What exactly does the study provide?
It allows you to obtain:
A municipal permit to carry out the work on the site.
Contractor quotes.
A treatment system tailored to your site and your needs.
A certificate of compliance, sometimes issued by an inspector to facilitate the resale of your home. In some cases, the municipality requires the septic system designer to supervise the work and provide a compliance report with photos and as-built plans.
Where can I see photos of the different technologies and materials?
We have photo albums showcasing the different technologies on our Facebook page, and our suppliers websites also provide many photos and videos.
Can I add chemicals to improve the performance of my system?
Large quantities of detergent, highly caustic substances, acids, disinfectants, or any other materials that may harm bacteria should not be poured into the septic tank. Small amounts of cleaning or bleaching agents—similar to those used to disinfect water or sterilize dishes—will not significantly affect bacterial activity, but regular use of large quantities may damage the treatment system.
We also recommend not discharging wastewater from water softener backwash cycles into the leaching field, as the dissolved salts can, over time (7–8 years), form an impermeable layer in the sand or soil.
The additives sometimes suggested for septic tanks are not all advisable, as many provide no real benefit.
Some of these additives can even seriously interfere with the proper functioning of the septic tank or the treatment system.
The sale of these types of products is not currently regulated in Québec, which means anyone can sell them. Caution is therefore strongly advised.
Can I change the location of my septic system as specified in the report?
You must always obtain our authorization before relocating the leaching field of your septic system. We will need to confirm that the new location meets all requirements, and in many cases a second site visit will be required, subject to an additional fee.
Can I change the use of my building to mixed commercial use?
Any change in the use of your building will require a review to ensure that your septic system is capable of treating the wastewater generated by the new use.
For example, if you add a mixed commercial use to your home, an engineer’s report will be required, subject to additional fees—such as for a home daycare, professional office, hair salon, etc.
You must also always confirm with your municipal inspector that the zoning regulations allow this type of use
What happens if we perform the test and I later decide to postpone my project?
There is no expiration date for the validity of a report under the regulations. However, to remain compliant when resuming your project, you must ensure the following:
That the Ministry or municipal regulations have not changed, as confirmed with your inspector.
That no changes have been made to the property that could affect the septic system (e.g., a new well within 30 m or 100 ft, backfilling, an artificial pond, etc.).
If the report is more than five years old, the municipal inspector will often require that we revalidate it following a site visit.
Sometimes new technologies or methods become available that may be beneficial and may require an update to the report, subject to an additional fee.
Feel free to contact us about this.
What is a percolation test?
The soil hydraulic load capacity study is more commonly known as a percolation test.
Simply put, this study is carried out to determine and design the best way to treat wastewater for a residence that is not connected to a municipal sewer system. An objective firm like ours will prepare the plans and specifications for all the technologies that could be installed on your property, giving you the freedom to choose the system that best suits your needs.
What will we receive after your percolation test?
You will receive a PDF report by email containing the plans and specifications for the system(s) that can be installed. This type of report typically ranges from 30 to 60 pages. Paper copies can also be provided upon request.
A copy must be submitted to your municipal inspector when applying for your permit. The contractor will also use it for quoting and to carry out the work. You may make photocopies of the document as needed.
What do I need to prepare and provide to allow you to perform a test on my property?
In general, we are able to obtain your property’s cadastral plan online. It is only when the lot is in the process of being registered that you will need to provide us with a copy of the forthcoming cadastral plan.
If you have a site plan for the new construction, you may send us a copy. You will also need to:
Indicate the location of the future house (new construction) and the driveway (parking area) to the best of your knowledge.
Indicate the location of the existing septic system if it is an existing home.
Specify the number of bedrooms the residence will have (please plan for the long term if additional bedrooms may be added, and note that an office or any enclosed room is often considered a bedroom).
Indicate the location of drinking water wells (artesian wells, surface wells, potable water lines) located on your property and on neighboring properties (within 100 feet or 30 metres of your lot).
Indicate any important features you are thinking about or may plan to add in the future to your property, such as: a garage, shed, pool, spa, pond, garden, building extension, etc.
Give us an idea of the height of the foundation to be built.
Specify whether you will have plumbing in the basement.
Notify us of the presence of any underground conduits, wires, drains, or other buried elements that could be damaged by our drilling.
Of any municipal regulations that differ from those of the Ministry of the Environment.
If you have a body of water on your property (lake, pond, river, stream), confirm with the municipality the required width of the riparian buffer zone.
If you have a wetland on your property, please provide the study prepared by a biologist. We can also offer a wetland characterization as an optional service.
How much space should I allow on my property for the septic system installation?
Although we can often make certain assumptions, it is not possible to determine this size with certainty before conducting on-site testing.
The dimensions can vary greatly, ranging from plus or minus 10 square metres (100 square feet) to more than 300 square metres (3,000 square feet).
The following factors will influence the required dimensions: soil permeability, land slope, available space, type of system, number of bedrooms, etc.
What is the difference between a leaching field, a polishing field, and a disposal field?
Different field designations can be misleading for property owners.
The leach field is the conventional field that follows a simple septic tank. This type of field is usually the largest in surface area and has the shortest lifespan due to progressive clogging. Its average effective lifespan is about 20 years. It requires a greater soil depth, between 600 and 1,800 mm of permeable soil.
The polishing field is the field that follows a septic tank and an advanced secondary treatment system such as Ecoflo, Bionest, Hydro-Kinetic, Système O, etc. This type of field is usually much smaller than a conventional leach field. Its lifespan is longer because the effluent has been pretreated and will not clog the field as quickly. It can easily last twice as long, or about 40 years. It requires only 300 mm of permeable soil. This type of system is therefore more common in more challenging areas, such as many parts of the Eastern Townships.
The disposal field is no longer popular due to regulatory changes. It was previously used with a septic tank to treat household wastewater for systems with a sealed tank for toilet waste. At that time, this type of field could be located less than 30 m from a well, which is no longer permitted today.
What are the minimum required distances for the septic tank and the leaching field?
The leach field must be built in an area free of motorized traffic and in compliance with the setback distances indicated in the following table:
The minimum distance between the system and a lake (riparian buffer zone) is often greater than 10 metres (33 ft), depending on the municipal regulations in force. It is often 15 metres (50 ft) or more.
Any septic tank must be installed in a location that is:
a) free of motorized traffic;
b) not likely to be flooded;
c) accessible for pumping; and
d) in compliance with the setback distances indicated in the following table.
The top of the tank must be no more than 900 mm (36 in.) below the finished ground level, and the openings must be easily accessible for pumping, using risers if required. Ideally, the covers may be left exposed or covered with a thin layer of soil and sod. It is recommended to carefully locate the septic tank during installation so it can easily be found for future pumping and prefilter maintenance.
Plastic artificial rocks can be used to conceal the covers in landscaped areas if desired.
What are the turnaround times to receive our reports?
As we cannot control demand or weather conditions, we will, upon request, inform you of the approximate waiting time before you receive your documents. Normally, we are able to complete your mandate within 5 to 15 business days.
Who will supervise the construction of my septic system and ensure its quality?
This varies depending on your municipality. Some inspectors will perform a quick and basic inspection of the work. However, the growing trend is that more and more municipalities now require us to carry out construction monitoring followed by a work compliance report.
If your municipality is among those, you should budget an amount starting at $900 + taxes. This amount may vary depending on whether your excavator is waiting for materials on site and on the distance involved.
The following municipalities require our monitoring services; however, always confirm with your inspector, as this list changes regularly:
Abercorn, Ascot Corner, Austin, Bolton East, Bolton West, Bonsecours, Brigham, Bromont, Township of Stanstead, Township of Hatley, Clarenceville, Compton, Danville, Eastman, Granby, Brome Lake, Lac-Drolet, Lambton, Magog, Mansonville, Melbourne, Ogden, Orford, Potton, Racine, Shefford, Sherbrooke, Saint-Alphonse-de-Granby, Saint-Claude, Saint-Étienne-de-Bolton, Saint-François-Xavier-de-Brompton, Sainte-Anne-de-la-Rochelle, Sainte-Catherine-de-Hatley, Stanstead, Stoke, Valcourt, Val-Joli, Waterloo, Waterville.
Please notify us at least one week in advance of the work date in order to reserve a technologist for monitoring.
How long should I plan for to assemble a kit?
We can provide you with an estimate of the time required based on the model and its level of complexity. On average, assembly takes between 3 and 6 weeks, depending on the crew’s experience and the size of the kit. Since the components are numbered, fitted, and pre-drilled, installation is fast and efficient. We can also advise you on the tools to have on hand or to rent to make handling easier.
How often should exterior staining be redone?
The frequency varies depending on several factors. For example, a south-facing façade with high sun exposure may need a new UV coat every 5 years, while a north-facing façade may last up to 10 years. The UV coat is a clear product that is very easy to apply, without the need for sanding or worrying about overlapping coats. With a lift, an entire house can easily be done in 2 days.
Are your log home kits compliant with the Building Code?
Yes, each structure and assembly plan is reviewed by a specialized engineer. In addition, to obtain a permit for a log home or cottage, we perform a digital energy analysis of the building. A report is provided, which you must submit to your inspector when applying for your permit.
Each design will be equivalent to or exceed the performance of a comparable conventional new construction.
Do you offer engineering services for other parts of our construction, such as the foundation or other components?
Yes, our engineer can also assist you with other needs such as foundation footing calculations, reinforced concrete structural slab design, steel beams, columns, bracing, and more.
Do you offer engineering services for the structural calculations of your wood structures?
Yes, each structure and assembly plan is reviewed by a specialized engineer.
Do you offer turnkey construction services?
Yes, we offer kit installation and full turnkey construction services through one of our accredited contractors. We primarily serve the Eastern Townships for turnkey projects.
Do you offer property management services?
We have a partner who handles the rental management of our chalets and those of many clients. They are an industry leader, managing hundreds of chalets.
Do you offer staining and maintenance services?
Yes, we have partners who can take care of the maintenance for you.
Do you offer installation services for your kits, including structural assembly?
Yes, we offer kit installation services through one of our accredited contractors. This option is popular with self-builders or for those who prefer to leave the remaining work to their general contractor. We offer this service across most of Quebec.
Can I install a kit myself or with my own contractor?
Yes, it is possible to install the kit yourself, preferably if you have basic construction experience. An experienced contractor will have no difficulty assembling a kit with our support.
Because we care about the importance of a quality installation, we also offer on-site support during kit assembly for first-time builders. An experienced professional will be on site to help, guide, and train you. They can also provide valuable advice and a few specialized tools that are very helpful.
What proportion does a kit represent compared to the total cost of my house or cottage?
Although each project is unique, a quick and often fairly accurate rule of thumb is the one-third ratio. For a $600,000 turnkey chalet, the log home and structural kit would represent approximately $200,000.
How does the maintenance of your kits compare to that of a Scandinavian log home?
Our kits are designed to minimize maintenance as much as possible. The kiln-dried wood, combined with our spring system, greatly reduces structural settling and eliminates the need to adjust bolts in the months and years following construction.
The quality of our stain and UV protection ensures minimal maintenance to preserve the wood’s appearance and durability.
How long should I plan for to assemble a kit?
We can provide you with an estimate of the time required based on the model and its level of complexity. On average, a kit is assembled in 3 to 4 weeks, depending on the crew’s skills and the size of the kit. Since the components are numbered, fitted, and pre-drilled, installation is quick and efficient. We can also advise you on the tools to have on hand or to rent to make handling easier.
How often should exterior staining be redone?
The frequency varies depending on several factors. For example, a south-facing façade with high sun exposure may need a new UV coat every 5 years, while a north-facing façade may last up to 10 years. The UV coat is a clear product that is very easy to apply, without the need for sanding or worrying about overlapping. With a lift, an entire house can easily be completed in 2 days.
Do you offer engineering services for the structural calculations of your wood structures?
Yes, each structure and assembly plan is reviewed by a specialized engineer.
Do you offer turnkey construction services?
Yes, we offer kit installation and full turnkey construction services through one of our accredited contractors. We primarily serve the Eastern Townships for turnkey projects.
Do you offer staining and maintenance services?
Yes, we have partners who can take care of maintenance for you.
Do you offer installation services for your kits, including structural assembly?
Yes, we offer kit installation services through one of our contractors. This option is popular with self-builders or for those who prefer to leave the remaining work to their general contractor.
Can I install a kit myself or with my own contractor?
Yes, you can install the kit yourself, preferably if you have basic construction experience. An experienced contractor will have no difficulty assembling a kit with our support.
Because we value the importance of a quality installation, we also offer on-site support during kit assembly for first-time builders. An experienced professional will be on site to help, guide, and train you. They can also provide valuable advice and a few specialized tools that are very helpful.
Where are the wetlands located?
According to the Atlas of Canada, wetlands represent 6% of the Earth’s land and freshwater surface. Their role is crucial in maintaining global environmental balance. Canada alone contains 25% of the world’s wetlands, and approximately 14% of the country is covered by them.
What is a wetland?
Wetlands are unique, nutrient-rich ecosystems where terrestrial and aquatic habitats coexist. They form when water is retained due to poor drainage, occasional flooding, or coastal barriers such as sandbars.
The Atlas of Canada defines wetlands as areas that are permanently or temporarily flooded or saturated with water and characterized by the presence of plants adapted to water-saturated soils.
The Fauna and Flora of the Country website defines them as areas covered by water for part of the day or year.
What is the conservation status of wetlands?
Wetlands were long considered unusable land. Many were drained or filled for agriculture, urban development, or peat extraction. Agricultural conversion is believed to be responsible for approximately 85% of wetland losses over the past two centuries.
Currently in Ontario, less than 40% of original wetlands remain. Losses reach up to 80% in certain regions. Now that wetlands are recognized as habitats that support biodiversity and provide essential ecosystem services, they are the only ecosystem whose conservation is governed by an international convention (the Ramsar Convention).
What species do wetlands support?
Wetlands are home to hundreds of species from the following groups:
Waterfowl
Birds (wetlands serve as major migratory stopover sites)
Mammals
Aquatic insects
Invertebrates
Amphibiens
Reptiles
Plants
What are the main categories of wetlands?
Wetlands are divided into two categories: freshwater and saltwater.
Types of wetlands found in Canada:
Bogs (ombrotrophic peatlands)
Fens (minerotrophic peatlands)
Peatlands
Marshes
Shallow waters
What measures are taken by Nature Conservancy of Canada to protect wetlands?
Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) has been protecting wetlands since 1968, beginning with its first conservation project, the Cavan Swamp and Peat Bog in Ontario.
In addition to protecting wetlands, NCC also works to restore, rehabilitate, and manage them so that wildlife and people can benefit from them in the long term.
NCC also plays an active role in the North American Waterfowl Management Plan, an international partnership between Canada, the United States, and Mexico aimed at protecting wetland and upland habitats for migratory birds and waterfowl.
In Canada, these partners have helped protect more than 9.4 million hectares of habitat in wetlands, coastal areas, grasslands, and forests.
What ecological roles do wetlands play?
Wetlands play several roles; they:
Control water from large waves or flooding
Protect coastal areas from erosion
Filter sediments and toxic substances
Provide habitat and a food source for a wide range of species
Play an important role in the water cycle
Offer many opportunities for recreational activities
Wetlands are also among the most productive habitats in the world. They offer greater species diversity and more significant nutrient cycling than many other ecosystems, including rainforests and coral reefs.
Who installs an artesian well?
Most of the time, the well driller will determine the location of the new well and prepare a sketch for your permit application. However, some municipalities require that this layout be done by a technologist, such as St-Denis-de-Brompton, Austin, and Cookshire-Eaton.
If your municipality requires it, we can provide this service. This requirement ensures better on-site validation to meet the minimum setback distances from neighboring septic systems. Since well drillers are not experts in septic systems, it sometimes happens that a well is installed too close to a nearby septic system and is therefore non-compliant.
Why does the installation of my collar (collerette) require a technologist?
A collar can allow a well to be installed at a minimum distance of 15 m from a field instead of 30 m, provided that its installation is supervised by a technologist and that a report with photos is produced and submitted to the Ministry. We can offer this service. This alternative is sometimes very useful on small lots and waterfront properties. We are usually called for sites where it would not be possible to install a field at the minimum 30 m distance from a well.
What is an artesian well?
Simply put, an artesian well consists of drilling a hole in the ground with a diameter of 15 cm (6 in. or more) and inserting a steel casing down to the bedrock. This hole is used to install a pump, capture groundwater, and supply the home with drinking water.
What clearance is required for the drilling rig to pass?
There are different types of drilling rigs. The most common is a large 10-wheel truck, which is difficult to maneuver and requires a solid access road to be prepared to reach the drilling site.
There are also more compact tracked drilling rigs that can move more easily through forested areas, helping reduce access road preparation costs and preserve trees.
You must also allow for vertical clearance in the drilling area to raise the rig above the selected site. No power lines or tree branches may obstruct this zone.
What is a collar used to seal an artesian well?
A collar consists of sealing the steel casing of a well down to a depth of 5 metres using a product called bentonite. A 50 mm annular seal around the casing ensures that no polluted surface water can seep between the steel casing and the soil and contaminate your water.
This protection is mandatory if bedrock is reached at a depth of 5 m or less. A collar can allow a well to be installed at a minimum distance of 15 m from a field instead of 30 m, provided that its installation is supervised by a technologist and that a report with photos is produced and submitted to the Ministry. We can offer this service. This alternative is sometimes very useful on small lots and waterfront properties.
Do you offer financing for your land for sale?
We are open to financing certain properties in whole or in part through a balance of sale.
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