Wastewater Program
What to do if you have a septic system failure
All septic systems have a limited life expectancy so one can expect that they will fail at some point in time. Failing septic systems can expose you, your family and your neighbors to sewage. Sewage contains pathogens and viruses that can cause disease. Sewage can also contaminate ground and surface water possibly polluting wells, rivers, streams or lakes near your home.
- Bad odors around the drainfield area especially after heavy water use or rainfall
- Very wet spots with lush green grass growth over the drainfield or septic tank areas
- Standing water in the drainfield area
- Plumbing or septic tank back-ups
- Slow draining fixtures
- Gurgling sounds in the plumbing system
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Trench failure anatomy
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Trench failure detail
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Trench failure - surface detail
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Trench failure - during repair
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If you think your septic system is failing, contact one of the following professionals to confirm the location and possible cause of the failure. They will also propose a repair solution. Remember: all septic system repairs require a repair permit from Public Health - Seattle & King County.
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A certified Installer is usually the first and best person to contact to investigate the problem but a licensed Designer or qualified professional Engineer is also available. |
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A certified Pumper/Sludgehauler can inspect the septic or pump tank to investigate causes of septic system backups or slow draining fixtures. They may recommend contacting a certified repair person if the septic system is failing. |
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Public Health - Seattle & King County can confirm the failure by inspecting the septic system. If necessary, a dye test may be performed to check if the sewage is from your septic system. Contact the Eastgate Public Health Center for assistance at 206-296-4932. |
- All septic system repairs require an approved repair proposal and a repair permit from Public Health - Seattle & King County.
- If you have septic system problems, contact a certified Installer, licensed Designer, or qualified professional Engineer who will look at the septic system and turn in a repair proposal to Public Health.
- A failing septic system may not have to be replaced with a new system. Your septic system professional can advise you on your repair options.
- Pumping a failing system is only a temporary solution. While it may be necessary to ahve the tank pumped during the repair process, pumping the tank alone may not correct a failing septic system.
- Click here to learn how to clean indoor sewage spills.
- Contact the Eastgate Public Health Center for technical assistance and advice at 206-296-4932 or click here to send an email.
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