Septic Tank Council Compliance Check

Starting June 2022, properties that are not connected to a wastewater network will be required to provide proof to Auckland Council that their onsite wastewater systems are functioning effectively. This includes ensuring that septic tanks, aerated systems, composting toilets, and other forms of wastewater treatment are serviced by professionals (thats us).

While most properties in Auckland are connected to Watercare’s piped network and pay for wastewater disposal, around 45,000 households in rural areas and on the Hauraki Gulf islands depend on onsite wastewater systems to manage their sewage and wastewater. To help reduce faecal contamination in our waterways, the water quality targeted rate is funding compliance monitoring of these onsite wastewater systems. This initiative ensures that property owners fulfil their responsibilities by regularly servicing their septic systems. Since the launch of the Safe Septic program, staff from Healthy Waters and Regulatory Services have been collaborating with servicing companies and communities to raise awareness about maintenance obligations. According to the Auckland Unitary Plan, property owners are ultimately responsible for the upkeep of their onsite wastewater systems.

The Safe Septic program aims to educate property owners while ensuring compliance with onsite wastewater systems as outlined in the Auckland Unitary Plan. With approximately 45,000 private onsite wastewater systems in the region, proper maintenance is crucial to minimising the risk of faecal contaminants—both human and animal – entering our waterways and beaches. To promote compliance, we have established a thorough system that requires property owners to maintain records of their onsite wastewater system maintenance. Additionally, the program includes educational initiatives designed to provide residents with essential information on how to properly maintain their systems.

“These systems can be really expensive to replace, but regular maintenance, taking care of what goes down your drains, and protecting the disposal field will keep it running well. Think of this like a WOF for your car – a regular check-up gives you assurance it is safe and means you can address small issues before they cause a big stink.” – Elizabeth Johnson, Safe Septic programme lead

At The Drain Company, we recognise the importance of complying with Auckland Council’s 2022 regulations pertaining to onsite wastewater systems. We are proud to be a council-approved service provider, offering efficient and reliable septic tank compliance checks to homeowners across the region. Our team of experienced professionals will conduct a thorough inspection of your wastewater / sewage treatment system and provide you with all the necessary documentation to comply with the council’s requirements. To make the process even more convenient for you, we will submit these documents to the council on your behalf, saving you time and hassle. Additionally, we offer flexible options for compliance checks, including both 6 monthly and 3 yearly checks, depending on the type of septic tank you have. By choosing The Drain Company, you can rest assured that your onsite wastewater system will be in good hands. We take pride in our commitment to providing exceptional service and ensuring that your system is functioning effectively.

For more information please follow the link to the Auckland Council website https://ourauckland.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/news/2022/05/get-your-septic-system-checked-compliance-is-coming-in-june-2022/