Do I have to pay a sewer bill if I have a septic tank?

Author: Joanne Bogisich  |  Last update: Tuesday, November 18, 2025

A septic tank is not a “sewer system” with any cost to the tenant. If the septic tank is full, then it's malfunctioning and the owner is responsible for having it repaired. That will include paying for pumping, since it can't be fixed while it's full.

Why do I pay for sewer when I have a septic tank?

If you have a septic system, then you won't need to pay for the sewer wastewater service. Many homes that have septic systems also rely on wells for fresh water rather than using city water, so you'll likely save money in that category as well.

Is a septic system the same as a sewer system?

So what's the difference between a sewer system and septic system? Where does the waste go? Septic System: The waste goes into a holding tank. Sewer System: Sewers lines carry waste to a treatment facility.

Can you have a septic tank and city sewer?

Yep. Usually a case of being on a septic tank and then the city comes by with a sewer system.

What is the downside to a septic?

Cons of having a septic tank

It can cause groundwater contamination if the system leaks. This can be a problem for well water. If not maintained, you can have a costly mess on your hands. Septic tanks will eventually need to be replaced.

Do you have to pay a high water and sewage bill caused by a leak?

Can you switch from septic to sewer?

From overflow to simple malfunction, a septic tank on the fritz is the sole responsibility of the homeowner to deal with and correct. Can You Switch from Septic to Sewer? Making the switch from septic to sewer is definitely possible but must be approached properly in order to avoid unnecessary headaches.

What are the risks of being septic?

Sepsis may cause atypical blood clotting. The resulting small clots or burst blood vessels may damage or destroy tissues. Most people recover from mild sepsis, but the mortality rate for septic shock is about 30% to 40%. Also, an episode of severe sepsis raises the risk for future infections.

How do I know if I have sewer or septic?

One way to determine if your home has a septic system is to check your property records. The property deed, building permit and design plans for your home and property will likely contain information about the presence (or lack) of a septic system. In some cases, there may be visual signs you have a septic system.

How long do septic tanks last?

The average lifespan of a septic system is 15 to 40 years, but it can last longer if properly maintained! Think at the sink. Consider what you put into your toilet and sink and the impact it may have on your system. Many common household items can either clog your system or kill the microbes that treat the wastewater.

How often should I empty my septic tank?

Household septic tanks are typically pumped every three to five years. Alternative systems with electrical float switches, pumps, or mechanical components should be inspected more often, generally once a year. A service contract is important since alternative systems have mechanized parts.

Is it bad to buy a house with a septic tank?

Septic systems can be a source of pollution if not maintained properly. If the system is not functioning properly, it can leak pollutants into the ground and nearby water sources, which can be harmful to human health and the environment.

How much does it cost to maintain a septic tank?

Maintenance. While septic tank pumping is needed every three to five years, annual tank inspections and maintenance can be helpful for detecting issues before they worsen. The maintenance technician can also let you know when it's time to pump. Septic tank maintenance costs between $100 to $1,000.

Does public sewer increase home value?

2022 Septic vs Sewer Results: Homes on Septic Sell for 17% More per Sq. Ft. and Sell 30% Faster than on Public Sewer. If you were thinking that switching to public sewer from your current septic system would increase your home value, think again.

How can I lower my sewer bill?

Install Low-flow Showerheads and Faucets: Switching to low-flow showerheads and faucets can save you up to 50% of your water usage, which will reflect positively on your sewer bill. Collect Rainwater: Instead of using your hose to water your lawn or garden, consider investing in a rain barrel.

Does having a septic tank save money?

More affordable: A septic system saves you from having to pay for municipal sewage service, and can also save you money on property taxes as well. Better for the environment: Septic systems are environmentally friendly. Long-lasting: Properly maintained septic systems can last 20 to 30 years, or sometimes more.

Is it illegal to not have a septic tank?

In many areas, it's a legal requirement to have a proper sewage disposal system, which often includes a septic tank or connection to a municipal sewer system. Failure to comply with these regulations could result in fines, penalties, or legal action by local authorities.

What are the signs that your septic tank is full?

How can you tell if your septic tank is full?
  • You have trouble flushing your toilet, or it's constantly backing up. ...
  • Your pipes make a gurgling sound or drain very slowly. ...
  • Your lawn is suddenly growing lush, green grass. ...
  • Water starts to pool in your yard. ...
  • Your home or yard smells like… well, sewage.

Can a concrete septic tank last 100 years?

A well-designed and well-built concrete septic system can last for about 40 to 100 years. There are usually no external variables that will reduce a concrete septic tank's lifespan if the pipes don't clog or corrode, and the tank was built out of high-quality concrete.

How long does water stay in a septic tank?

The time it takes for a septic tank to fill up depends on several factors, including the tank's size, the number of people living in the household, and water usage. Typically, a septic tank can fill up in 2-5 years, but it's crucial to get it pumped every 3-5 years to prevent issues.

Do you have to pay sewerage if you have a septic tank?

In many cases, it is more cost effective to install a new septic system than it is to connect municipal sewer lines to your property. Septic systems can save you money each month. They are not linked to the municipal sewage system, so there are no monthly sewage or water bills to operate one on your property.

Is it better to have a septic tank or sewer?

Sewers are generally more reliable than septic systems because they're built with large-scale infrastructure and designed by engineers who know how to manage water flow. That means you can expect consistent performance, even during heavy rainfall or periods of high water usage.

Is my property on sewer or septic?

Check your water bill: The easiest way to check if you have a septic tank is to check your water bill. If there is a sewer charge listed on your bill, then you are connected to the municipal water system and don't have a septic tank.

What happens if septic is not treated?

If sepsis is not treated early, it can turn into septic shock and cause your organs to fail. This is life threatening. You may need other tests or treatments depending on your symptoms, including: treatment in an intensive care unit.

What are the risks of a septic system?

Yes, a failing septic system can contaminate well water and nearby waterbodies. Untreated wastewater is a health hazard and can cause many human diseases. Once this untreated wastewater enters the groundwater, you and your neighbor's wells can be contaminated.

What are the long term effects of being septic?

Post-Sepsis Syndrome can affect up to 50% of sepsis survivors especially if you were admitted to the intensive care unit. Symptoms include: Sleeping irregularities: insomnia, difficulty falling or staying asleep; nightmares, hallucinations. Confusion / inability to concentrate.

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