We have good news: Earth Care (formerly Kaiser-Battistone, both are now part of Wind River Environmental) is offering a discount on septic pumping and maintenance to Truesdale Lake area residents. Cost for pumping tanks 1,000 gallons or smaller is $280.00 (regular cost is $320.00) with an additional environmental disposal fee and a digging fee. I have attached their Truesdale Lake letter to this article.

Westchester County law REQUIRES septic systems be pumped at a minimum every 5 years. Septic pumping companies in Westchester have been required to report their pumping activities to the county since 2011. Starting in May 2016 if you have not pumped your septic in the last 5 years, you will be fined starting at $200 and increasing from there.

Most households need pumping done more frequently than every 5 years. Recommendations are at least every 2-3 years to maintain an optimal working septic system. This is dependent on the number in the household and the size of the septic tank. Many lake area septics are smaller capacity and need more frequent pumping — some as much as once a year.

A septic system is not something you want failing at your house. It is very expensive ($10-20,000 and up) to rebuild a failed septic system, especially with limited acres to place a new field.

They also included a brochure for septic systems that has helpful information on septic systems. Contact name and number for Earth Care is Angela Warren at 800-428-6166 ext. 101.

If you have a question about septic systems and the law in Westchester County, call Patty Tornello-Adams at (914) 864-7360. Continue reading →