Drainfield repair and replacement
When the drainfield stops absorbing water, sewage has nowhere to go. Here's how drainfield repair works.
The drainfield, also called the leach field or absorption field, is where wastewater leaving the tank soaks into the soil and is treated. When it clogs or the soil can't accept water, wastewater surfaces in the yard or backs up into the house.
Signs of a failing drainfield
- Soggy ground or standing water over the field
- Sewage odors outdoors
- Grass that's greener and faster-growing over the lines
- Backups that return soon after pumping
What are the options?
- Repairing lines or the distribution box when the problem is limited to one part of the field
- Adding or replacing field lines in the permitted repair area
- A pump system to send wastewater to a better area of the lot
- An alternative or advanced system where soils or the water table are a problem
Replacement design depends on the soil and site, and a new or relocated drainfield needs a permit. Brunswick County offers several permitting routes, including working with private soil scientists and authorized evaluators.
Protect a new drainfield
Keep vehicles and structures off it, direct downspouts away from it, and keep up with pumping so solids never reach it.
The septic company prices the job after learning about your system and, for repairs, seeing it. We don't quote prices, and any number given over the phone is only a rough starting point.
Where we connect you with help
Common questions
Can a drainfield be repaired or does it need replacing?
It depends on the cause. Broken lines or a bad distribution box can be repaired. A field that's clogged throughout usually needs to be replaced or expanded.
Why do some Brunswick County homes need pump systems?
Where soils or the water table near the house aren't suitable, a pump can send wastewater to a better part of the lot.
Related services
More background: Brunswick County septic guide.
Slow drains, soggy yard or a septic alarm going off?
Call now and a local septic company will help you sort it out.