What happens when a septic system fails and how does it create liability and health risk?
The common sign of septic system failure is a foul odor accompanied by surfacing wastewater (“puddling”) on the ground surface in the area of the septic leach field. There are many causes of septic system failure including overuse of the system, age of the system, neglecting to periodically inspect and pump the solids out of the septic tank, etc. Raw, untreated sewage contains disease-causing bacteria and viruses which can harm unsuspecting people, (particularly children), pets, and can contaminate crops. Diseases such as hepatitis, amoebic dysentery, polio and host of other diseases have been linked to drinking water contaminated with raw sewage. Back To FAQ List If there is a failing septic system in our neighborhood, who do we complain to? What are the indicators of a failing system? If you smell a foul odor accompanied by “puddled” water on the ground surface, contact the Department of Environmental Health (510)567-6700. Back To FAQ List What impact does site geology play? Soil cha
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- What happens when a septic system fails and how does it create liability and health risk?
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