How should an inspector document any observed hydraulic overloading of a drainfield?

• A. Note Surface Flow, Odors, Wet Areas, and Infiltration Rates, and Recommend Repair or Replacement as Needed.
• B. Ignore If Not Severe.
• C. Replace the Entire System Without Assessment.
• D. Only Measure Infiltration Rate, Nothing Else.

Answer: (A)

When a drainfield is hydraulically overloaded, you document what you observe and how the soil is behaving, then note what should be done to fix it. The best approach is to record surface flow, odors, and wet areas around the drainfield, and also assess how the soil is absorbing water by noting the infiltration rate. This combination shows both surface symptoms and actual soil performance, helping determine the extent of failure or risk. Based on what you find, you should recommend repair or replacement as needed to restore proper function and protect health and the environment.

Ignoring symptoms, replacing the entire system without assessment, or measuring only one aspect (like infiltration rate) would miss important signs and could lead to inappropriate or incomplete remedies.