Image library: System Failures

• This is a picture of a failed system which "burst", spewing sewage onto the lawn. Just because raw sewage is not surfacing onto your lawn does not mean the on-site system is working.
  
  
  
  
  
• A system failure. Many older homes have a septic tank or a 50 gallon drum and then a pipe to a ditch, field tile, wooded or remote area. These illegal systems are a serious source of ground and surface water pollution. Although it is not a law in Indiana, it is a good idea to get the on-site system inspected before purchasing a home. Additionally, have the well water tested for fecal coliforms, nitrogen, and lead by a certified lab. (Lead is not related to the on-site system.) Contamination is so severe in certain areas, that residents are drinking bottled water to avoid disease.
  
  
  
  
  
• Evidence of sewage in the woods.
  
  
  
  
  
• Many old barrels were buried for "storage" or "disposal". Many now leak.
  
  
  
  
  
• Here is a close up of a hole in the barrel. These are sometimes found in yards at the time of on-site system repair.
  
  
  
  
  
• This basement is sure to leak later.
  
  
  
  
  
• This house has a problem.