Homeowners insurance companies consider septic tanks as part of your home so they are covered by your policy but not if the damage to the septic tank is caused by poor maintenance or neglect on the part of the homeowner.

How To Care For Your Septic System

Following are some general guidelines on proper septic tank maintenance.

  • Sewer lines should be cleaned out every 18 – 22 months for optimal maintenance.
  • In household of 4 or less residents, the septic tank should be inspected every 4 years.
  • In households of 5 or more residents, the septic tank should be inspected every 2 years.
  • Septic tanks should be pumped out every 3 to 5 years depending on the amount of usage. We recommend you speak with a professional plumber.
  • Use cleaning products that are safe for your septic tank such as
    • CLR Calcium, Lime and Rust Remover
    • Seventh Generation Dish Liquid
    • Bissell Advanced Professional Spot and Stain + Oxy
    • Seventh Generation All Purpose Natural Cleaner
    • and many more. Just look for “Septic Safe” on the label
  • Conserve water in your household usage. The less water you use, the less ends up in the septic tank which reduces the risk of problems.
  • Use low phosphorus liquid detergents and use as little as possible. You want to avoid detergents that use surfactants which can be very harsh on septic tanks.
  • Avoid putting items in your sink drains and toilets such as…
    • cooking grease and oil
    • paper towels
    • kitty litter
    • coffee grounds
    • feminine hygiene products
    • condoms
    • wet wipes of any kind
    • dental floss
    • medications
    • cigarette butts
    • diapers
    • household chemical (including paint and paint products)
  • Use septic safe toilet paper
  • Maintain your septic tank drainfield by…
    • avoiding placing heavy items such as concrete blocks, rocks, parked vehicles, etc. on the drainfield area
    • planting trees and bushes as far as possible from the drainfield area.
    • keeping your home’s drainage equipment such as sump pumps, downspouts, etc. from draining onto the drainfield

These helpful maintenance tips should help you to keep your septic tank in optimal condition for as long as possible and help you to avoid any costly damage.


If you have any questions about insurance coverage for septic tanks, call Atlantis Plumbing today at 770-505-8570. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.