Septic systems have the potential to contaminate your well - or your neighbour's. Like all systems, it can be abused and neglected, resulting in considerable trouble and inconvenience, especially if it stops functioning in the wintertime. A system may become inefficient because of improper location, faulty construction, lack of attention, overloading, and other factors. Poorly maintained or damaged septic systems can contaminate ground water with E.coli bacteria or nitrate. A septic tank does not purify sewage, but only prepares it in a form ready for final disposal into the soil.

The Health Unit is mandated by provincial legislation to ensure safe water supplies, prevent disease and eliminate health hazards. The Sewage Systems Land Development Program Sewage System program is conducted under Part 8 of the Ontario Building Code to protect the environment specifically protection of ground (drinking) water and surface water supplies and, prevention of disease by controlling the planning and installation of sewage systems.