A septic system usually is made up of a septic tank and a drainfield. The septic tank is usually made of reinforced concrete, is buried and watertight. This tank receives untreated household waste. Although even the best designed and installed system eventually fail, proper maintenance will ensure a longer lasting waste disposal system. A failure of a septic system can cause serious problems.
Sewage can pond on the ground near the drainfield or back up into buildings.
Animals and people may become ill from contact with these discharges. Pollution from failing septic systems of contaminate ditches, creeks and shallow drinking water supplies. In addition to public health concerns, there are costly repair bills to repair or replace the system. Normal use of the system is interrupted while the system is uncovered for repairs or replacement. Lighter wastes such as oil and grease rise to the top and form a scum layer.