In an effort to clean up poor water quality and the associated health risks, Auckland Council is taking a closer focus on property owners with an onsite wastewater system!
The council has launched a new Water Quality Compliance Programme which will see them ask property owners to provide their inspection and maintenance records to council. It’s their aim to make property owners understand their responsibilities related to onsite wastewater systems and to increase their awareness of their potential impact on water quality.
Poorly maintained private wastewater systems have been linked to substandard water quality and health risks. It is the responsibility of property owners to maintain their systems adequately.
To comply with the programme, Hydrovac technicians will complete the online mobile checklist developed by the Auckland Council, to ensure we’re providing the correct data and clearly showing that you are fulfilling your responsibilities as a property owner.
When was the last time you had your wastewater system inspected and serviced?
The council says a property owner must:
- Use a suitably qualified wastewater service provider (like Hydrovac) who will service the system in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations
- Check and service your septic tank outlet filters regularly at intervals as recommended by the manufacturer. (Not sure what that is for you? Call us – we can tell you.)
- Inspect your septic tank at least every three years and pump it out when sludge and scum levels are at 50% of the total tank volume
- Service secondary and tertiary systems at least every six months
- Have service and inspection records available for council to check
- Maintain your disposal area and make sure it is protected from damage by vehicles and stock.
Septic tanks in the former Waitakere City area, are emptied every three years by the Auckland Council contractor. These properties pay a targeted rate for the service. This only applies to traditional septic tanks, not high-tech secondary systems, and is not considered a full inspection. If you receive the council pump-out service, you still need to book a three-yearly inspection where all parts of the system and disposal field can be checked.
Auckland Council are starting with Waiheke and the Waitakere areas for this programme roll-out. By 2021 they aim to have records for all properties with onsite systems.
If you need your system serviced, you need help to understand how regularly your system needs servicing, or are interested in setting up a regular servicing agreement so you don’t have to worry about scheduling, please call one of our friendly team members on 09 973 4866 or wastewater@hydrovac.co.nz