Water surfacing around lateral lines

Diagnosing and Restoring a Failing Septic System

When septic issues arise, the earlier they are addressed, the better the outcome. Recently, a homeowner contacted us after noticing wet spots in their yard over the lateral field - a clear warning sign that something was wrong.

Upon arrival, we performed a full system assessment. Our findings revealed two major problems:

• The tank’s internal baffle was in disrepair, allowing solids to potentially enter the drain field.
• The distribution box (D-box) was no longer functioning correctly, preventing even distribution of effluent to the lateral lines.

These issues, if left unaddressed, could have caused significant damage to the drain field and resulted in costly repairs down the road.

Step 1: Septic Tank Pumping & Baffle Replacement
We began by pumping the septic tank to reduce pressure on the system and create a safe work environment. A new baffle was installed to stop solids from entering the drain field, and we added a new riser and secure lid to bring the tank access to grade—making future maintenance easier and fully compliant.

Step 2: Distribution Box Replacement & Leveling
We removed the failing D-box and installed a new one, carefully adjusting the speed levelers. These levelers are critical for balancing wastewater flow to each lateral line, helping extend the life of the drain field.

Step 3: Site Restoration
Once repairs were complete, we finished grading the disturbed area to restore proper drainage, then seeded and strawed the site to encourage healthy regrowth and leave the property clean and presentable.

With the new baffle, riser, lid, and D-box in place, the septic system is now operating as intended, efficiently, evenly, and in compliance with regulations. The homeowner can enjoy peace of mind knowing their system has been fully restored and protected against future problems.