HOW TO AVOID SEPTIC TANK PROBLEMS If you have a septic system installation then chances are that your home is not connected to the centralized sewer system, meaning you have got to take great care of your septic system. While centralized sewer systems are maintained by the municipality or local government, septic system maintenance is the responsibility of the homeowner. To make matters worse, if ground water is contaminated due to your septic system, then you may be legally liable for those damages.