When a property served by a septic system experiences a fire, it's crucial for pumpers and installers to take specific actions to ensure the system's safety and functionality. Here's a guide on what professionals need to do and how they can inform their customers.

Assessing Damage

1. Initial Inspection:
   • Septic Tanks: Check for structural integrity, including cracks and leaks in the tank. Inspect baffles, effluent filters, water levels, scum and solids.
   • Lids, Accesses and Risers: Examine for heat damage or warping that could compromise the system's integrity.
   • Distribution Boxes and Proprietary Products: Assess for damage and ensure they are functioning correctly.
2. Soil and Drain Field Evaluation:
   • Soil Absorption Areas: Look for signs of damage to the soil structure, such as compaction or contamination.
   • Reserve Areas: Check for any impact on areas designated for future system expansion or replacement.
3. Water Tightness Testing: Ensure that all components of the system are watertight to prevent leakage and contamination.

Informing Customers

1. Post-Fire Inspection Requirement:
   • Explain the importance of a thorough inspection after a fire to identify and address potential damage.
   • Recommend contacting their insurance adjuster to include septic system evaluation in their claim.
2. System Functionality and Safety:
   • Inform customers that even if the house is being rebuilt with the same number of bedrooms and in the same location, an evaluation by a professional can prevent future issues.
   • Advise them to schedule an inspection with a certified septic system professional as they approach the permitting phase of rebuilding.
3. Rebuilding in New Locations or Expanding the House:
   • If the customer plans to rebuild in a different location or increase the number of bedrooms, explain that a new system design and permit will be required.
   • Emphasize the need to work with a professional engineer or onsite sewage system designer to evaluate and potentially expand the system.

Additional Steps

1. Documentation and Records:
   • Advise customers to request and keep records of their septic system, including any past evaluations or reports. This can help in assessing the current state of the system and planning for any necessary repairs or modifications.
2. Future Maintenance:
   • Encourage customers to establish a routine maintenance schedule post-rebuild to ensure ongoing system health and prevent issues that could arise from any residual fire damage.

By following these steps and effectively communicating with customers, pumpers and installers can ensure that septic systems affected by fire are safely and properly restored.