Septic System Repair Procedures
The process for repairing or upgrading a septic system involves:
- Design of a septic system that complies with the requirements presented below. If a property owner desires to design their own septic system, they are urged to contact licensed contractors, septic system consultants or the Environmental Health Service (EHS) for information on soil types and water table levels in their area.
- Submittal of the permit application and design for review by the EHS Specialist. Significant changes may be required in order to meet the requirements specifically applicable to the property. Soils, percolation and winter water table observation tests may be required to receive approval of the permit. Modification of the original design may be required if site conditions warrant changes.
- Construction of the system may only begin after approval of the permit is given by the Environmental Health Specialist. 24 hours’ notice must be given to the Specialist prior to commencing work. Failure to comply may result in issuance of a stop work order and rendering the permit null and void.
- Installation of the septic system must be done with inspections by an Environmental Health Specialist including a final inspection and permit sign-off.
Since the septic system design initially proposed by an owner or contractor may differ from the design ultimately approved by the Environmental Health Service, it is recommended that any contract between a property owner and a contractor reflect that possibility. When getting bids, property owners should make sure that contractors are bidding on the same septic system design (getting bids on an approved septic permit will ensure this).