Do-It-Yourself Septic System Inspection 201 Course
Field Guide for homeowners to accompany the Do-It-Yourself Septic System Inspection 201 Course
DISCLAIMER
Septic system owners are ultimately responsible for the operation, monitoring, and maintenance of their onsite septic system. Washington State and local public health regulations require septic system owners to have a complete evaluation of their septic system performed every one to three years (depending on the type of system) and to report the condition of their system to the local health jurisdiction. The do-it-yourself (DIY) septic system inspection training program is designed to teach homeowners how to perform a basic inspection of their home septic system. If the homeowner finds that their system is malfunctioning, it will be necessary for them to contact a licensed professional with the necessary skills and equipment to repair the system. Septic system repairs require a permit from the local health jurisdiction and must conform with state and local public health codes that regulate septic system repair. This program is not intended as training for onsite professionals or for the inspection of community or commercial septic systems. Any mention of trade names, private companies, or commercial products in this training program is for illustrative purposes and does not constitute an endorsement by the State of Washington or Clallam County. Inspecting or maintaining a septic system can be dangerous. If you choose to inspect or maintain your septic system, you do so at your own risk and are personally responsible for your own safety. You may be exposed to health hazards including, but not limited to, infectious diseases, hazardous gases, and electrical shock. Sewage carries harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can cause infection and illness, especially in people with weakened immune systems, pregnant women, children, and the elderly. Proper hygiene, protective clothing, and safe work practices help reduce exposure risks. A homeowner performing a DIY septic system inspection is responsible for taking all necessary precautions to minimize the risks of illness or injury associated with the inspection or maintenance of the system. If at any time you are concerned about your ability to safely inspect or maintain your septic system, you should stop what you are doing and hire a licensed professional to perform the work. Contact your local health jurisdiction for a list of licensed professionals working in your area. In consideration for using this field guide, you understand and agree that the State of Washington and Clallam County, its officers, employees, agents or volunteers are not liable or responsible for any injuries or damage which may result from your using the materials or ideas, or from your performing the procedures depicted in this field guide. If you do not agree, do not use this guide.
INTRODUCTION
This field guide is intended to accompany the “Do It Yourself” (DIY) septic system inspection video and is to be used after viewing the video. Homeowners should have the field guide in hand during the inspection of their septic system. Checklists are provided in the guide to help homeowners go through each step of the process. Once the inspection process is complete, homeowners can use the field guide’s checklists to report their results to their local health department. The training video and this field guide depict on-site septic systems that have installed risers to make septic systems easily accessible for inspections. Risers greatly add to the ease of locating and inspecting your system. Riser installation is highly recommended if your system does not already have them. When inspecting your septic system be sure to wear protective clothing (that is eye protection, gloves, sturdy outerwear and steel toed boots if possible). Use the proper equipment and decontamination procedures, and use caution to avoid injuries when excavating soil to uncover tanks and lifting heavy lids. If you encounter any problems along the way, stop and call a professional.
Download the Septic System Field Guide PDF here
Major funding for this guide is provided by the Centennial Clean Water Fund and Section 319 Nonpoint Source Fund through a grant from Washington State Department of Ecology. Funding is also provided by Washington State Department of Health. Clallam County wishes to acknowledge Jones Advertising for production, Kitsap County Health District for some of the illustration source material, and numerous stakeholders and onsite professionals in both government and private industry for their objective reviews and comments in developing this septic system inspection guide.