Only 1% of septic tanks likely to be inspected per year

Homeowners facing septic tank charges could escape being forced to upgrade their waste water systems, with inspectors investigating just 1% of properties with systems every year.

The Irish Examiner has learned that fewer than 5,000 properties with septic tanks and waste water systems are expected to be visited after the deadline for registration next February.

Homeowners with tanks have until Friday week to pay a discounted registration rate of €5, which will rise to €50 after that.