Frequently Asked Questions
HSTP Installation
Most HSTP installations can be completed within 1-2 days, depending on the size of the system, site conditions, and weather. We’ll give you a clear timeframe upfront so you know exactly what to expect.
Yes. We take care of the entire process, including council applications, approvals, and final certification, ensuring your system is fully compliant with all regulations in the Moreton Bay region.
Yes. A wastewater design (site and soil evaluation) is required before installation. We can organise this for you and guide you through the process from start to finish.
The size and type of system depend on your household size, property layout, and soil conditions. Jamie will assess your property and recommend the most suitable HSTP system for your needs.
Yes. Jamie oversees every installation and remains your main point of contact throughout the process. While his team carries out the work, you can speak directly with Jamie at any time.
Costs can vary depending on the system type, site conditions, and installation requirements. We provide clear, upfront pricing after assessing your property so there are no surprises.
If you’re upgrading, we pump-out and decommission your existing system as part of the installation process.
Yes. Modern HSTP systems are designed to treat wastewater safely and efficiently, producing water that can be reused for irrigation in many cases, making them a great long-term solution.
Absolutely. We specialise in installations across rural and semi-rural areas in Moreton Bay, where reliable wastewater solutions are essential.
Once your system is installed and approved, we also provide ongoing servicing and maintenance to keep it running efficiently for years to come.
Pump Outs
Yes. While HSTP systems require pump outs less often than septic tanks, they still need to be emptied periodically to remove built-up solids and maintain proper performance.
On average, most HSTP systems require a pump out every 7–10 years, depending on usage and how well the system has been maintained. We monitor this during regular servicing and will let you know when it’s due.
Signs can include reduced system performance, sludge build-up, or poor water quality. However, the best way is through regular servicing, where we can accurately assess when a pump out is required.
The tank is emptied by a vacuum tanker, removing accumulated solids. During this process, we have a technician on-site to oversee the work and inspect the system internally while it is empty. Click here for more information.
Having a technician present ensures the job is done correctly and safely. It helps prevent damage to internal components and allows us to carry out a detailed inspection that isn’t possible when the tank is full.
After a pump out, the tank must be refilled to maintain structural stability and proper operation. Leaving it empty can lead to damage or the tank lifting out of the ground.
No. We organise a water carrier to refill the tank quickly and efficiently. This avoids high water bills and ensures the tank is filled safely without putting pressure on your home’s water supply.
Delaying a pump out can lead to reduced system performance, increased wear on components, and potentially costly repairs. Regular maintenance helps avoid these issues.
Yes. We manage the entire process for you — including organising the pump-out contractor, water carrier, and having a technician on-site to oversee everything.
Costs can vary depending on system size and site access. We provide clear, upfront quotes when a pump out is required.
Absolutely. As part of our servicing, we keep track of your system’s condition and will advise you when a pump out is needed — so you don’t have to guess.
Yes, but we recommend having it managed professionally to ensure it’s done correctly. We’re happy to organise the entire process and oversee it for you.
Wastewater Design
Yes. In Queensland, a site and soil evaluation (wastewater design) is required before installing or upgrading any septic system or Home Sewage Treatment Plant (HSTP). This ensures your system complies with local council regulations and is suitable for your property.
Timeframes can vary depending on the property and availability of assessors, but generally a site and soil evaluation and design report can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks. At Maxfield’s Wastewater, we help organise the process to keep things moving as quickly as possible.
A qualified assessor will inspect your property and test the soil to determine how well it absorbs wastewater. They will also assess slope, drainage, and layout to decide the best location for your tank and irrigation area. Click here for more information.
Getting the design right is critical. A properly designed system will:
– Perform efficiently long-term
– Meet council requirements
– Reduce the risk of system failure
– Save you money on future repairs or upgrades
No. Council approval is required before installation, and this approval is based on a compliant wastewater design. Skipping this step can lead to fines, failed inspections, or costly rework.
Costs can vary depending on your property size and complexity. We can help organise your site and soil evaluation and provide guidance on expected costs upfront.
Yes. We handle the process for you — from arranging the site and soil evaluation through to recommending the right system and completing the installation.
Once your wastewater design is approved, we can move forward with installing your septic system or HSTP, ensuring everything is completed to council standards and ready for long-term use.
Wastewater Servicing
Yes. We service and repair all major brands of Home Sewage Treatment Plants, regardless of who originally installed your system.
Absolutely. Switching is simple, and we can take over your servicing schedule to ensure your system remains compliant without any gaps.
Yes. We keep track of your servicing schedule and will notify you when your next service is due — so you don’t have to chase it yourself.
Most systems require servicing every three months (quarterly) to meet council requirements and ensure proper operation.
Each service includes a full system check, testing of components, inspection of pumps and aerators, and ensuring your system is running efficiently. We also provide a detailed report and handle any required council reporting. Click here for more information.
No. Chlorine is included as part of our service — we don’t charge extra for it like some providers do.
If we identify any issues, we’ll explain the problem clearly and provide honest advice before carrying out any repairs. We aim to fix problems early to avoid.
We believe great service isn’t just about maintaining your system — it’s about keeping you informed the entire time.
When your service is scheduled, you’ll receive a text notification when your technician is on the way, including live tracking so you know exactly when we’ll arrive — just like tracking a delivery.
While we’re on-site, we keep things moving efficiently:
– Service reports are completed and sent to you in real time
– Invoices are issued while we’re still at your property
– Any quotes or recommendations are provided promptly
If anything needs attention, we’ll either send through clear information or speak with you directly to discuss the best option.
No chasing, no guessing — just clear, reliable communication from start to finish.
Because at Maxfield’s Wastewater, we know communication is just as important as the service itself.
Because we focus on the Moreton Bay region, we can respond quickly to breakdowns and urgent issues compared to companies covering wider areas.
### How much does servicing cost?
We offer simple, upfront pricing:
– $100 per service
– Or $380 for four prepaid quarterly services
No hidden fees, no surprises.
Our main focus is the Moreton Bay region, which allows us to provide faster, more reliable service. We may assist nearby areas depending on availability.
We focus on reliability, communication, and quality workmanship. You’ll deal with a local team that shows up on time, keeps you informed, and takes pride in doing the job properly.