Understanding Rainwater Systems and Septic Tanks: A Guide for Rural Homebuyers

Buying a rural property can be an exciting venture, offering a peaceful lifestyle away from the hustle and bustle of urban life. However, living in a rural area often means dealing with water supply and waste management systems that you may not be familiar with, particularly rainwater systems and septic tanks. At Red LBP Building Inspections, we frequently work with clients who are new to these systems, and we’ve put together some essential tips and advice to help you navigate them with confidence.

Rainwater Systems

In many rural areas of New Zealand, homes are not connected to a mains water supply. Instead, they rely on rainwater collected from rooftops, stored in tanks, and then pumped into the house for use. While this can be a sustainable and cost-effective solution, it does require regular maintenance and careful management.

Key Considerations for Rainwater Systems:

1. Tank Size and Condition: Ensure that the rainwater tank is adequately sized for your household’s needs, especially during the dry summer months. Inspect the tank for any signs of rust, cracks, or leaks. A well-maintained tank is crucial for ensuring a reliable water supply.
2. Gutter and Roof Maintenance: The quality of your rainwater is directly affected by the condition of your roof and gutters. Keep gutters clean and free of debris to prevent contamination of the water supply. Also, consider the materials used in your roof; some materials can leach harmful substances into the water, making it unsuitable for drinking without proper filtration.
3. Filtration and Treatment: Rainwater can pick up contaminants from the roof, gutters, and surrounding environment. It’s essential to have a filtration system in place to remove sediment, bacteria, and other impurities. Regularly clean or replace filters as recommended by the manufacturer. In some cases, additional treatment, such as UV purification, may be necessary to ensure the water is safe for drinking.
4. Water Testing: Regularly test the quality of your rainwater, particularly if you use it for drinking. Testing kits are available, or you can hire a professional service to check for contaminants like E. coli, nitrates, and other potentially harmful substances.

Septic Tanks

Septic tanks are a common wastewater treatment solution in rural areas where there is no access to a public sewer system. They are designed to break down waste from your home, allowing solids to settle and liquids to drain into a leach field or soakage area. Proper maintenance is essential to avoid unpleasant and costly issues.

Key Considerations for Septic Tanks:

1. Tank Location and Access: Know where your septic tank and leach field are located. Ensure that the area is easily accessible for maintenance and that there is no heavy vehicle traffic or large trees nearby, as roots can damage the system.
2. Regular Pumping: Septic tanks need to be pumped out regularly to remove the build-up of sludge. The frequency depends on the size of the tank and the number of people in the household, but typically, it should be done every three to five years. Neglecting this can lead to blockages, overflows, and unpleasant odours.
3. What Not to Flush: Only human waste and toilet paper should be flushed down the toilet. Avoid flushing items like wipes, sanitary products, or chemicals, as they can disrupt the bacteria that break down waste in the tank and lead to blockages.
4. Leach Field Care: The leach field is where the liquid from the septic tank is dispersed into the soil. Keep this area clear of heavy equipment, vehicles, and deep-rooted plants. Ensure that rainwater is diverted away from the leach field to prevent saturation, which can cause the system to fail.
5. Professional Inspections: Regular inspections by a professional are vital to ensure that your septic system is functioning correctly. They can identify any potential problems early and advise on necessary maintenance or repairs.

Final Thoughts

If you’re new to rural living, understanding and maintaining rainwater systems and septic tanks is crucial for ensuring a smooth and trouble-free experience. With regular care and attention, these systems can provide reliable service for many years. At Red LBP Building Inspections, we recommend having both systems thoroughly inspected before purchasing a rural property to avoid any surprises and ensure that they are in good working order.