Local authorities completed 1,466 septic tank inspections in 2025 targeting  areas of greatest risk from an environmental and health perspective. Of these, 59 percent (863) failed inspection with many posing a risk to  nearby rivers and drinking water wells.  

Since 2013, 7,212 septic tanks failed inspections, with 84 percent fixed by  the end of 2025. Improved resolution of faulty septic tanks by homeowners has been aided  by increased Government grant support.  

Joining Anton to discuss the problem, and what’s being done about it, is Noel Byrne, EPA’s Drinking Water and Wastewater Enforcement team