In Vermont’s rural and suburban communities, many homes rely on onsite wastewater systems (septic systems) to manage household wastewater safely. But when a system fails, it can lead to serious health, environmental, and financial consequences. According to Vermont’s DEC, a failed system can cause surface pooling, odors, backups, and contamination of groundwater or nearby waterways.
Before things get worse, homeowners need to know what steps to take — and what mistakes to avoid. Below is your practical guide to handling a failed wastewater system the right way.

📄 View the full Vermont DEC pamphlet on failed wastewater systems

What Is a Failed Wastewater System?

A wastewater system is considered “failed” when it can no longer reliably transport, treat, or dispose of household sewage without causing environmental or health hazards. Common signs include:

• Sewage surfacing on the ground
• Strong, persistent odors
• Backups in plumbing
• Saturated or soggy drain field areas
• Algae growth in nearby water bodies

In Vermont, failed systems are governed by state and local regulations to protect drinking water, wetlands, and public health.

The Do’s & Don’ts After a System Fails

✅ DO: Act Quickly & Safely

• Stop using the system until repaired (minimize water use, shut off nonessential plumbing).
• Isolate the problem if possible (e.g., shut off valves or divert certain drains).
• Contact a qualified professional (like Taplin Septic) to inspect, diagnose, and propose solutions.
• Notify local authorities if required. In some cases, reporting to your town health or DEC may be necessary.

❌ DON’T: Ignore the Problem or Use Temporary Band-Aids

• Don’t keep running water through the system — it can worsen damage and spread contamination.
• Avoid DIY fixes like pouring chemicals or attempting invasive repairs without proper permits or expertise.
• Don’t bury the problem or cover up smell/surface issues — the underlying failure remains.
• Avoid excessive use of additives or “miracle” treatments that claim to restore failed systems.

Planning a Repair: Key Considerations

1. System Assessment & Diagnosis
   Use sewer camera inspections, soil tests, and flow measurements to determine what’s failing: tank, pipes, drain field, or combination.
2. Repair or Replace?
   For some systems, repairs or partial fixes may be possible; in other cases, full replacement is safer and more sustainable.
3. Permit & Regulatory Compliance
   In Vermont, system repairs or replacements often require permits or oversight from the local health or environmental agency. Work with professionals familiar with DEC rules.
4. Site Preparation & Drain Field Design
   The new or repaired system must suit soil conditions, lot slope, setback requirements, and seasonal high groundwater levels in Vermont.
5. Budget & Financing
   System fixes can be costly. Ask for multiple proposals, and check for any grant, loan, or cost-sharing programs in your municipality or through state programs.

Preventive Steps to Avoid Failure

• Routine Pumping & Maintenance
  Follow a 3–5 year pumping schedule, inspect system components, and repair issues early.
• Water Conservation
  Fix leaks, use water-saving fixtures, and spread out high-water-use activities.
• Proper Waste Disposal
  No grease, non-biodegradable wipes, or harsh chemicals down drains.
• Protect the Drain Field
  Don’t park vehicles or place heavy structures over it; maintain surface drainage away from the field.
• Be Mindful of Trees & Landscaping
  Avoid planting deep-rooted trees near system lines; roots can invade pipes or fields.

Why Vermont Conditions Matter

Vermont’s climate, soil types, and seasonal freeze-thaw cycles impose constraints on design, repair timing, and system durability. During spring thaw or heavy rains, failed systems can worsen quickly. That’s why quick action in the fall — before ground frost and snow — helps reduce repair complications and protects groundwater.

How Taplin Septic Can Help

For homeowners across Vermont — from Newport to Stowe, Lyndon, Barton, Craftsbury, and nearby towns — Taplin Septic offers:

• Professional inspections & site evaluations
• Sewer camera diagnostics
• Repair or replacement services that meet DEC and local regulations
• Preventive maintenance plans to catch issues early

Don’t let a failed wastewater system turn into a disaster. Let Taplin assess your system and guide you toward a durable solution.
🚛 Taplin Septic — Clean, Reliable, Vermont