Septic Tank Cleaning Lismore

A cartoon plumber wearing blue overalls and a grey cap with a water drop icon, standing with hands on hips and smiling.

The plumber locals Trust

Why Locals Choose TJM Plumbing

Locals choose TJM Plumbing for our experience, trust, and consistently high standards. Our team has the right knowledge, the right qualifications, and a standard of work that speaks for itself.

A solid black water drop icon with a small white crescent highlight on the lower right side.

15+ Years of Experience

A solid black water drop icon with a small white crescent reflection on its right side.

Fully Licensed & Insured

A black water drop icon with a small white crescent reflection on the side.

Locally Owned & Operated

A black droplet icon with a small white highlight curve.

Competitive Prices & Free Quotes

A simple black silhouette of a water droplet icon with a white highlight curve.

Quality Workmanship

A solid black droplet icon with a small white curved highlight on the lower right side.

AWTS Certified

If you’re a homeowner in Lismore relying on a septic system, keeping it clean and functioning properly is essential. At TJM Plumbing, we provide professional septic tank cleaning in Lismore designed to prevent breakdowns, protect your property, and ensure your wastewater system operates safely year-round.


We work with rural and residential properties across the Northern Rivers, delivering reliable septic pumping, maintenance, and expert advice tailored to local conditions. Whether it’s routine servicing or an urgent clean-out, we make the process simple and stress-free.


At TJM Plumbing, we specialise in septic tank cleaning and ongoing maintenance services across Lismore and surrounding areas. Our team understands the unique demands of properties not connected to mains sewerage, and we provide practical, long-term solutions that keep your system performing at its best.


From standard septic tanks to aerated wastewater treatment systems, we clean, inspect, and maintain all system types with precision and care.

Professional Septic Tank Cleaning in Lismore

A person in blue protective gloves uses a green hose to clean an open manhole, with a bucket and tools nearby.

Why Regular Septic Tank Cleaning is Essential

Your septic system plays a critical role in managing all wastewater on your property. Without regular cleaning, sludge and waste build up, increasing the risk of system failure and environmental damage. 

Prevents System Failure

Over time, sludge and scum accumulate inside your tank, reducing capacity and forcing solids into your drainage field. This can lead to blockages, overflow, and expensive repairs.

Protects Your Health

A neglected septic system can expose your household to harmful bacteria and pathogens, especially if wastewater backs up or contaminates surrounding areas.

Safeguards the Environment

Routine septic tank cleaning helps prevent pollution of local soil, groundwater, and waterways across the Northern Rivers region.

Preserves Property Value

A well-maintained septic system is essential when selling your property. Lismore City Council often requires inspections and compliance documentation during property transfers.

Regular septic tank pumping ensures your system runs efficiently for years, avoiding major issues and protecting your investment.

A service vehicle parked near an open septic tank lid and a hole in the sandy ground in an outdoor, arid setting.

Our Septic Tank Cleaning Services

Residential Septic Tank Cleaning

We provide reliable septic tank cleaning for homes throughout Lismore and the Northern Rivers. Whether you have a conventional septic system or an advanced treatment unit, we tailor our service to your setup.


  • Cleaning for all septic system types and sizes
  • Flexible scheduling to suit your household
  • Clear advice on ongoing maintenance
  • Customised service intervals based on usage

Commercial Septic System Cleaning

For businesses, a functioning septic system is critical to daily operations. We deliver dependable commercial septic cleaning services across Lismore and the Richmond Valley.


  • Minimal disruption to your business
  • Compliance with wastewater regulations
  • Grease trap cleaning for high-use sites
  • Scheduled maintenance plans with priority service
A cheerful worker in a blue uniform and cap kneeling while holding a large adjustable wrench.

10 Warning Signs Your Septic Tank Needs Cleaning

If you notice any of the following, your septic tank may be due for cleaning:

  • Slow drains throughout your home
  • Gurgling sounds in pipes or toilets
  • Unpleasant odours inside or outside
  • Pooling water near your tank or drain field
  • Bright green grass over the drainage area
  • Sewage backing up into drains or toilets
  • Toilet gurgling when using other fixtures
  • Increased nitrates or bacteria in water supply
  • Visible scum or solids near tank outlets
  • It has been more than 3 years since your last clean

Acting early can prevent costly repairs and system failure.

Our Professional Septic Tank Cleaning Process

01

Site Assessment & Preparation

We begin by locating your septic tank and assessing site conditions. Many properties in Lismore have tanks that are buried, difficult to access, or impacted by terrain or past flooding. We ensure safe access and identify any risks before starting.

02

Thorough Tank Pumping

Using specialised vacuum equipment, we remove all waste, sludge, and buildup. We also clean tank components, including baffles and filters, to restore proper system function.

03

Proper Waste Disposal

All waste is transported to licensed treatment facilities in line with NSW EPA and local council requirements. We provide documentation for compliance and peace of mind.

04

System Inspection & Advice

After cleaning, we inspect your system for damage, leaks, or blockages. We also provide clear, practical advice on maintaining your septic system and recommend your next service interval.

With over 10 years of experience servicing Lismore and the Northern Rivers, we understand the local environment, soil conditions, and council requirements that impact your septic system.


At TJM Plumbing, we deliver prompt, reliable septic tank cleaning with transparent pricing and no surprises. Whether you need routine maintenance, urgent service, or expert advice, we’re here to help.


Regular septic tank cleaning protects your home, your health, and the local environment.


Contact us today.

Contact TJM Plumbing Today

An open concrete manhole revealing a dark interior with metal steps along the wall and a pipe at the bottom.

Real Reviews from Local Customers

Five black stars in a row.

Tom and his crew are all top blokes, couldn’t recommend a better bunch of plumbers. My job was completed very timely and I’m really happy with the outcome. Thanks Tom.

Five black stars in a row.

Tom and the rest of the team did an amazing job. I really appreciate the communication and understanding throughout the process. Very professional!!!

Five black stars in a row.

I recommend TJM Plumbing. Jamie did a very good job which took a bit of working out. I am very happy with the results.

Five black stars in a row.

We are so impressed with Tom and his team at TJM Plumbing in Lismore. They did an amazing job fixing our septic system, and left everything looking perfect when they finished. The team was very friendly and easy to communicate with. Would 100% recommend, and will be using them for any future work that we need done.

Frequently Asked Questions

septic tank cleaning faqs for lismore homeowners

  • How often should I get my septic tank cleaned in Lismore?

    For most households, septic tank pumping every 3-5 years keeps your system functioning properly. However, factors like household size, water usage, and tank capacity affect this schedule. Smaller tanks or homes with heavy water usage may need more frequent servicing—sometimes every 2-3 years. After our inspection, we provide personalised recommendations based on your specific system design and usage.

  • What happens to the waste after pumping?

    All liquid waste and sludge from your tank is transported to a licensed treatment facility that meets NSW EPA standards. We provide full documentation of proper disposal, which is required for compliance with Lismore City Council’s On-site Sewage Management regulations. Our responsible waste handling protects local waterways and the surrounding environment.

  • Can you access septic tanks in difficult locations?

    Absolutely. Our team handles challenging access situations across the Northern Rivers region daily. We use mobile vacuum trucks with extended hoses, remote cameras for pipe inspections, and appropriate equipment for steep terrain or heavily vegetated properties. Whether your tank is buried, behind fencing, or on difficult ground, we have the experience and equipment to complete your septic tank cleaning efficiently.