Grant assistance is available in specific circumstances to support householders where defective Domestic Waste Water Treatment Systems (DWWTS), including septic tanks, pose a significant risk to the environment or to public health.

That's according to Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne.

He was responding to a parliamentary question from Brian Brennan TD, who asked the minister to provide an update on the review of the grant support arrangements for septic tanks, especially for those currently not eligible.

“The grants are targeted at areas of greatest environmental priority and are only available in specific circumstances,” Minister Browne said.

“In particular, grants may be accessed where a system has failed an inspection under the National Inspection Plan and an Advisory Notice has been issued, or where a dwelling is located within a designated area identified as particularly vulnerable to the impacts of defective systems,” he added.

Minister Browne also clarified that the operation and maintenance of DWWTS “remains the responsibility of the property owner, who must ensure that their system functions effectively and does not pose a risk to human health or the environment”.

He continued: “My department is currently finalising a review of the grant support arrangements in light of evolving environmental objectives, including consideration of additional areas now identified as priority areas for action.

“The outcome of this review will help ensure that the available resources continue to be used to best effect, delivering the greatest environmental and public health benefits.”

All domestic waste water treatment systems, including septic tanks, must be registered with the homeowner's local authority.

Homeowners may be able to get a grant to repair, upgrade or replace your waste water treatment system.

The homeowner can apply for funding for 85% of the cost of the repairs to your system or a new system, up to a maximum of €12,000.