If you use an on-site sewage system, or if you are buying a home with an on-site system, this owner's guide can help you be sure that your on-site sewage system is used and maintained properly.

Periodic Maintenance and Repair

Home and yard:

• Repair dripping faucets and toilets. Leaking fixtures can significantly add to the loading of an absorption field.
• Cut down and remove trees that like wet conditions. The roots can disable the drain field.
• Landscape the yard to divert surface waters away from the tank and drainfield.
• Be sure that the water from the roof, gutters, and foundation drains does not flow over the system.
• Install a terrace and/or curtain drain if needed.
• Maintain terraces, curtain drains, sub-surface tiles and drainage outlets so that water can flow freely.