Smells Like Trouble: How to Know When Your Septic Tank's Failing
Most of the time, your septic system quietly does its job in the background. But just like a car or heat pump, it needs a bit of care and attention...
2 min read
The Team at OwtSmart
Sep 10, 2025 4:24:52 PM
If you’re like most homeowners with a septic tank, you probably don’t want to think about it and you shouldn’t have to. But keeping your system in good working order is critical. Regular maintenance, accurate records, and compliance with council regulations all play a vital role in keeping your wastewater system healthy and your property protected.
That’s where OwtSmart comes in: an automated platform designed to take the stress, hassle, and paperwork out of managing your septic system.
A well-functioning septic tank quietly does its job day after day. But when maintenance slips, problems can escalate quickly and expensively. A failing system can mean thousands of dollars in repairs, contamination issues, and even the loss of your consent to operate, which can have devastating impacts on your property value.
Across New Zealand, a large number of septic systems aren’t performing to minimum environmental or health standards. In some regions, more than 20% of systems fail inspections often because of missed maintenance, incomplete service records, or lost documentation. When councils require proof that your system is being serviced and functioning correctly, not being able to provide that evidence can lead to enforcement action or the withdrawal of your operating consent.
OwtSmart eliminates the need to remember service schedules, chase your service provider for reports, or dig through old folders to find compliance paperwork.
Our smart system:
With OwtSmart, you’ll never have to chase paperwork or worry about what happens if your service provider forgets to send a report it’s all taken care of for you.
A properly maintained and fully compliant septic system protects your home and your investment. When it’s time to sell, being able to easily show verified maintenance records and proof of compliance reassures potential buyers and helps safeguard your property’s value.
Conversely, a system that’s fallen behind on maintenance or missing the paperwork to prove it can raise red flags, trigger council enforcement, or even result in loss of consent to operate. That’s not just inconvenient; it can seriously undermine your property’s worth and marketability.
With OwtSmart, you never have to think about your septic tank again because we’re doing it for you. From automated scheduling to digital recordkeeping and compliance reporting, we take the uncertainty and stress out of wastewater management.
Stay Compliant.
Protect your Investment.
Live Owtsmart.
Register your interest at: www.owtsmart.com
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