After the flood waters have receded:
- Use the septic system very sparingly until water over the septic tank and drainfield areas is no longer evident on the ground surface.
- If the system is damaged and in need of repair, contact your local health department (828-884-3139). Signs of damage to your system may include:
- Soil settling around tanks and in disposal field area, especially in well-established areas.
- Wastewater system components have shifted (are not level) or floated (partially or completely) to the ground surface.
- System not accepting wastewater, such as sewage backups or sewage surfacing on top of the ground.
- Have your septic system inspected by a certified wastewater system inspector (https://ncowcicb.info).
- Examine the electrical system (e.g., includes electrical connections, pumps, alarms, etc.) for damage before restoring power to the system. If your system requires an operator, check with them before operating the system.
- Check the effluent filter/screen.
- The system may need to be serviced and/or pumped out to remove solids, sediment, or debris. When having the tanks pumped out, make sure to pump out both chambers if applicable.
- Make sure all tank access covers are in place and secure. Check any system inspection or sampling ports/locations for damage and blockage.
- Do not turn on water softening units and limit the use of clothes washing machines and handwashing of dishes until the septic system has been determined to be operating properly.
- Check for erosion at the tank and drainfield areas. Replace or repair vegetative cover as needed.
- DO NOT compact the soils in the drainfield area. Keep vehices and heavy equipment from driving over the drainfield area. DO NOT place dumpsters, trailers, or building materials over the wastewater system.
- If you have had sewage backup into the facility, use rubber gloves, boots, and eye protection to clean and disinfect any impacted areas. Discard any items that cannot be cleaned and disinfected in an approved manner.
- DO NOT dump flood waters or disinfectants into the wastewater system.
CONTACT YOUR LOCAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT (828-884-3139) IF YOU HAVE QUESTIONS, CONCERNS, OR ARE IN NEED OF ADDITIONAL ADVICE OR ASSISTANCE.