As a homeowner, with a performance-based treatment septic system, you are responsible for maintenance in accordance with the laws of Florida. For the entire life of the system, the Health Department requires the following:
A valid operating permit, and a
A maintenance contract between the homeowner and an approved septic contractor for the system.
The maintenance contract will usually last for two years. The septic contractor will come out for an initial visit to make sure the system is working properly. After the initial visit, the septic contractor will come out every 6 months until the end of the contract (4 visits). After every 6-month inspection, the septic contractor will send information to the health department letting them know the status of the system at the time of the maintenance inspection. They will also inform the health department that the homeowner is following their maintenance contract. If the system is found to not be working properly during an inspection, the homeowners are required to fix the problem at their expense. Also, septic tank pump outs are not covered under this maintenance contract.