The inspection involves an evaluation of the three sanitary components which are part of the household septic tank system. The inspection undertaken examine the working state of the:

• Foulwater drain from the house to the septic tank chamber;
• Septic tank chamber (including the splitter box;
• Connecting effluent soakage field system.

The inspection may involve the use of tracing dyes to help identify a source of septic tank failure and any illegal discharge of septic tank effluent.

The legal responsibility to ensure the septic tank and connecting soakage fields operates correctly and does not pollute the environment or endanger human health lies with the property owner.

If a septic tank system fails or becomes substandard and is in breach of statutory requirements, then repairs can be costly.

This may involve application to the Local Council for a building consent and to the Regional Council for a permit to discharge effluent waste to land.

The issuing of a permit or consent will attract payment of a fee.