56% of septic tanks in Ireland fail inspection

An alarming 56% of septic systems tested in Ireland this year failed their inspection.

As one of the country's leading septic specialists, Premier Tech Water and Environment recently filed a Freedom of Information request with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

The request revealed that 1,070 domestic wastewater treatment system inspections have been conducted since the start of 2024, with 602 failing.

The company says the findings reinforce the need for thorough maintenance by qualified professionals.

“Just like a car, septic tanks should be serviced annually as it prevents small issues turning into big problems that can cost owners a small fortune to fix,” says Tony Power, sales and operations director for Premier Tech Water and Environment in Ireland.

“Worryingly, these figures suggest that many owners are not taking proper care of their systems and are at risk of those problems.”

The causes and consequences of failed inspections

The most common cause of failed septic inspections was operation and maintenance failure. Other frequent issues included desludging problems and leakage.

These failures can be dangerous. Not only can household drinking water become contaminated, but sewage can also damage the environment and owners run the risk of enforcement action from the local authority.

The good news: Help is available

As well as supplying and commissioning wastewater systems, Premier Tech also specialises in servicing and maintaining sewage treatment systems. By having an expert service your system, you can stretch your tank’s lifespan to around 20 years.

And there is more reason for optimism. Government grant funding for repairs more than doubled at the start of 2024, and Premier Tech urges owners to take advantage of the generous support available.

“Funding has increased from €5,000 to €12,000 and is available once a tank fails an inspection – which these statistics indicate is unfortunately the norm,” adds Power, who is also a former chairman and current treasurer for the Irish Water Treatment Association.

“My advice would always be to contact a specialist product provider, and they should be able to help ascertain your eligibility. And shop around. Compare costs and get multiple quotes when dealing with companies working with grants, as there’s always a risk you could be overcharged given the local authority is footing much of the bill.”

Related services