Sewage treatment systems aren’t exactly the most glamorous part of owning a home, and they’re easy to ignore. But when it comes to septic tanks, ignorance is definitely not bliss. Upgrading your septic tank can play a crucial role in protecting the environment.

However, when you start thinking about an upgrade, the questions can pile up quickly. What does an upgrade actually involve? How much should you expect to spend? What environmental benefit comes with installing a modern system? The good news is that the process does not have to feel overwhelming. We’ve gathered the top 10 most common questions homeowners ask before upgrading their septic tank, along with clear and practical answers to help you make confident decisions.

1.      What are the benefits of the Our Rivers septic tank upgrade scheme for homeowners like me?

Cost Savings – Enjoy a free upgrade that would otherwise be a significant expense, saving you money on installation.

Enhanced Property Value – An upgraded sewage treatment system can increase the value of your home, making it more attractive to potential buyers.

Peace of Mind – With a modern, efficient sewage treatment plant, you can rest easy knowing your home’s waste management is reliable and environmentally friendly.

2.      What are the benefits of the Our Rivers septic tank upgrade scheme for the environment?

Reduced Pollution – New package treatment plants are more efficient at treating wastewater, reducing the risk of harmful pollutants entering local waterways.

Improved Groundwater Quality – By preventing contaminants from leaching into the soil and groundwater, we help protect the quality of rivers and streams that groundwater feeds.

Sustainable Practices – Modern package treatment plants are designed with sustainability in mind, ensuring long-term environmental health.

Reinvestment in River Restoration – Our Rivers pledge to reinvest a significant proportion of any profit into local river restoration projects and their communities.

3.      What exactly will happen to my septic tank?

Your septic tank or old package treatment plant will be decommissioned (removed and filled in) and replaced with a modern, efficient system. The new system will function more efficiently and reduce harmful nutrients entering into local waterways.

4.      Will the work cause disruption to my property?

We work carefully to minimise disruption. Most decommissions and installations can be completed in 4-5 days, and we always attempt to restore your garden or grounds to their previous condition. However, any further landscaping is not included in the contract.

5.      What are the ongoing maintenance requirements?

The scheme requires you to maintain your treatment plant on an annual maintenance contract. Maintenance will cover, but is not limited to, leaks, cracks, blockages, smells, and the operation of the motor, pump, air filters, and other features. To ensure the new system is operating correctly, repeat visits by the installer will be undertaken at 3, 6, and 12 months in the first year of operation. Then annually after this period.

6.      How does upgrading my septic tank benefit the environment?

Older septic systems often leak excess nutrients (phosphorus and nitrogen) directly into rivers or groundwater that eventually reaches rivers and lakes. These nutrients cause harmful algal blooms, deplete oxygen, and damage aquatic ecosystems. Your upgraded system dramatically reduces these nutrient leaks.

7.      What are nutrient credits, and how do they work?

The environmental improvements from your upgraded septic tank can be measured and converted into ‘nutrient credits’. Local housing developers can purchase credits to offset potential environmental impacts from new construction, allowing development while ensuring a net neutral or positive effect on water quality.

8.      Can I really get a completely new package treatment plant installed for free?

Yes! There are no costs to eligible homeowners for the supply and installation of a new system. The program is funded through the sale of nutrient credits to developers and supported by our environmental partners.

9.      Will there be any costs that I am expected to pay for?

Modern package treatment plants do have ongoing running costs, such as maintenance and electricity. These costs will be fully explained before you commit to an upgrade.

10. If I share my tank, how are ongoing costs shared?

If a septic tank is shared between multiple properties, the landowner on whose land the tank is located will need to coordinate how ongoing costs, such as annual maintenance and electrical running costs, will be divided and paid for. This coordination and any related agreements are not covered under the scheme.

Modern package treatment plants protect local waterways, reduce pollution, and support healthier communities. By staying informed, you are contributing to a cleaner, more sustainable environment. If you are committed to protecting your environment, register your interest today.