Upfront Septic completed a septic system inspection at a property in Lakebay, WA, to evaluate the condition of the tank, access points, and distribution box and identify any necessary maintenance. Upon arrival, our technicians found an existing riser over the main lid of the first compartment. The outlet lid had a homemade access point constructed from bricks with a metal sheet serving as the cover.
Our team excavated the inlet, the main lid for the second compartment, and the distribution box to inspect these components. We found that the distribution box lid was broken into pieces and needs to be replaced. The inlet, second-compartment, and outlet lids were also not airtight or watertight, making them vulnerable to water and soil entering the system. Proper risers are recommended for these access points to provide secure, accessible covers.
The 1,125-gallon septic tank had been pumped five days before our inspection. At the time of service, the first compartment was full while the second compartment was nearly empty. Our technicians also found that the outlet baffle had deteriorated and needs replacement to help prevent solids from moving out of the septic tank and into the drainfield.
Because the drainfield had not received wastewater flow recently, our team performed a 450-gallon stress test to evaluate its ability to accept water. The system passed the test. Although the exact location of the drainfield is unknown, our technicians walked the surrounding area and found no visible signs of drainfield failure or other deficiencies.
The recommended follow-up work includes installing two 12-inch risers and one 24-inch riser, along with replacing the deteriorated outlet baffle. These repairs will improve access to the septic tank and help protect the system's components from unwanted water infiltration. This project has been marked for additional work (MWTF) so the recommended repairs can be completed.
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