If a septic tank does not function properly it can cause an odour nuisance, flooding and pollution, which can result in additional expense for you.

The purpose of a septic tank is to treat waste water from your property which is generally not connected to the public waste water system. It is usually either a large rectangular box made of brick, stone or concrete, or a bottle-shaped plastic tank buried underground not far from the property it serves.

Waste material (sludge) is allowed to settle in the tank and is digested by natural bacteria breeding in the tank. Over time this sludge builds up on the bottom of the tank. This sludge has to be removed regularly to ensure that the tank continues to work properly and to prevent the soakaway becoming choked.

If you own or use a septic tank, the quality of the discharge and its impact on the environment are your responsibility. You may be held accountable for any pollution caused by your septic tank.