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Procedure for Repair of Failed Septic Systems

My septic system is in need of repair, how do I go about getting it repaired?

The first step that the home owner needs to take is to call a septic system pump company to have the tank pumped. A representative from this company will usually confirm that you have a problem.

Next you will have to call either a septic system installer or septic system designer both are licensed in the State of New Hampshire. (They are listed in the yellow pages). They will make the arrangements for the required test pit.

A test pit must be dug beside the existing leaching area to determine the distance between the bottom of the leaching area and the seasonal high water table. This determination must be done by a licensed septic system designer. In the town of Kingston, the Health Officer is also required to be present.

If the system meets the following criteria then an as-built system may be done:

  • If the system is more than 75 feet away from wells, wetlands, ponds, etc.
  • If the bottom of the leaching area is more than 2 feet above the seasonal high water table.
  • If this system is for residential use only.
  • The existing use is not being changed or expanded.

An as-built system is replacing the failed leaching area with an identical leaching area. The size, shape, and type of material used can not change.

If there is less than 2 feet of separation between the seasonal high water table and the bottom of the leaching area then the results of the test pit is used by the septic system designer to design a system that meets today's standards.

Once the system has been designed, then it is submitted to the Town Health Officer to review to insure that it meets town requirements. Once it has been approved by the town, it is then forward to the State subsurface division for their review and hopefully approval.

After the system has been approved by both the town and the state, then the system can be installed.

The Town requires that the system be inspected at bed-bottom, after construction but before backfill, and after backfill.