Septic System Publications

Your Septic System, Bulletin #7080 [7080 PDF version]
Maintenance is the key to a lasting septic disposal system. Read and use this fact sheet series to learn:

• How a septic system works

• Why and how to maintain your septic system

• How to keep your own maintenance record

What To Do If Your Septic System Fails, Bulletin #7081 [7081 PDF version]
Discovering that your septic system is failing is a miserable experience.  This fact sheet is designed to help you recognize this problem, determine what to do if it happens and, most importantly, learn how to prevent it. Use these tips in conjunction with the information in "Your Septic System," a water quality fact sheet.

Maintaining Your Septic System: Special Considerations for Shoreline Property Owners, Bulletin #7082 [7082 PDF version]
If you live on shorefront property, maintaining your septic system requires more care than maintaining a similar system located elsewhere.  Soil and water conditions near the shoreline may make the system less efficient, which could, in turn, cause harmful pollutants to get into your lake, stream or pond.

Conserving Water at Home, Bulletin #7083 [7083 PDF version]
This bulletin is designed to help you save money, protect your health and reduce the risk of damaging your septic system and the quality of your drinking water, lake, pond or stream. Use these tips in conjunction with "Your Septic System," a water quality fact sheet.

What to Know About Septic Systems When You Buy or Sell a House, Bulletin #7084 [7084 PDF version]
Decisions about purchasing new homes are based on the looks of the house, size, location and price, but not the septic system. Since the septic system is half of the home's life support system, it warrants attention. Just imagine what would happen if you moved in, feeling financially strapped, then you discovered you needed to install a new septic system. Or you found a buyer, closed the deal and discovered the new owner was suing you because the septic system failed. This fact sheet lists major points to consider when you buy or sell a house. It is not a substitute for professional inspection, which is recommended.

Septic Systems: Considerations When Building or Remodeling a Home, Bulletin #7085 [7085 PDF version]
This fact sheet is designed to help you understand what is included in a household septic system, the types available and the process of installing one.

The Safe H(2)OME Program Fact Sheet Series
A series of fact sheets and worksheets that give ideas for reducing the risk of groundwater contamination. Included is information on well construction, hazardous wastes, household wastewater, lawn and garden care, and lead. (Note: These fact sheets are available in PDF format for free download at the Maine Department of Environmental Protection's The Safe Homes Program Web site.)