Septic Tank Repair in the Lower Mainland & Fraser Valley
Like many critical components of our everyday lives, your septic tank often performs its duties without you giving it much thought. Unfortunately, like every essential system that sees constant use, it can experience issues over time, sometimes with little warning.
Having your septic tank system fail can be a nightmare, with untreated sewage coming to the surface on your property, or worse, backing up into your home. When this happens, you need expert help for quick and effective septic tank repairs.
Sod Crew repairs septic systems for homes and properties across the Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley. We find the source of the problem, fix it properly, and restore your yard when the work is done.
Signs Your Septic System Needs Repair
A damaged or failing system doesn’t always give much warning, so it’s important to watch for:
- Strong odours that persist in your yard
- Slow-draining sinks, tubs and toilets
- Unusually green patches or standing water over the drain field
- Sewage backing up into your home
Any of these signs can point to a serious problem with your septic system. Don’t delay. Getting help quickly minimizes damage to the system and reduces health hazards on your property.
Common Septic Problems We Repair
While septic systems are generally very reliable, these are the issues we see most often:
- Clogged or blocked pipes. Debris and solid waste can build up over time, blocking the pipes between your home, the tank and the drain field.
- Drain field damage. A heavy vehicle driving over the drain field can crush a pipe, and tree roots can work their way into pipes or the tank, blocking the flow of water or even causing the tank or a pipe to burst.
- Damage from improper use. Septic systems are built to handle human waste and toilet paper. Flushing items like feminine products, so-called flushable wipes and paper towels can cause blockages and damage.
- Problems from improper installation. A system that was not installed correctly can experience numerous issues that keep wastewater from draining efficiently.
Our Septic Tank Repair Process
It’s vital to act promptly when your septic system needs repair. Our team has the training and experience to get the job done quickly and efficiently.
Troubleshooting
We begin by troubleshooting the issue and gathering as much information as possible about the system and the symptoms you’re seeing.
Pumping, If Needed
Depending on the nature of the problem, a pumper truck may need to remove excess effluent from the tank before the issue can be fully diagnosed.
Diagnostics
Once the system is fully accessible, we perform a series of diagnostics on all the components that may be responsible for the malfunction.
Estimate and Timeline
With this information in hand, we provide an estimate and timeline for the work that needs to be done, so you know what to expect before any repairs begin.
Repairs
We carry out the repair, whether that’s clearing a blockage, replacing damaged pipes, or fixing problems in the drain field. If the system needs more than a repair, we’ll explain your options (see Repair or Replacement below).
Restoring Your Yard
Repairs often mean digging up part of your property. When the work is complete, we cover the area with topsoil and return it to its original condition by installing sod or planting grass seed.
Repair or Replacement?
In British Columbia, some repairs require a new septic system design and filing documents to be submitted to the appropriate health authority. These include replacing the existing tank, upgrading the system from trickle gravity distribution, and replacing the treatment and/or dispersal system.
Our team can handle any situation that arises, from a simple repair to a more involved replacement. If your system needs to be replaced, learn more about our septic tank installation process.
Why Choose Sod Crew for Septic Repairs
Most septic repairs leave you with torn-up ground where the crew had to dig. Because landscaping is what we do every day, Sod Crew finishes the job properly. The same team that repairs your system restores the area with fresh sod or seed, so your property looks good and is usable again right away.
Our licensed professionals work with homeowners and property owners throughout the Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley, on everything from blocked pipes to drain field repairs and full system replacements.
Septic Tank Repair FAQs
Can a septic tank be repaired, or does it need to be replaced?
Many problems, such as blocked pipes or damaged drain field pipes, can be repaired. If the tank itself has failed or the treatment or dispersal system needs replacing, a new design and health authority filing may be required. We’ll diagnose the system and explain which option makes sense.
Do septic repairs need a permit in BC?
Some do. Under BC’s Sewerage System Regulation, work like replacing a tank or replacing the treatment or dispersal system requires a new design to be filed with your regional health authority by an Authorized Person, either a Registered Onsite Wastewater Practitioner (ROWP) or a Professional Engineer. Simpler repairs generally don’t require a new filing.
Why is there standing water or a green patch over my drain field?
Soggy ground or unusually lush grass over the drain field can mean effluent isn’t soaking into the soil the way it should. It’s often a sign of a blocked or damaged drain field and should be checked as soon as possible.
Can tree roots damage a septic system?
Yes. Roots are drawn to the moisture in septic pipes and tanks. Over time they can grow into pipes, block the flow of wastewater, and even cause a pipe or tank to crack.
What should I do while I wait for septic repairs?
Cut back on water use as much as possible, keep vehicles off the drain field, and keep children and pets away from any area where sewage has surfaced.
How can I prevent septic problems?
Only flush human waste and toilet paper, keep heavy vehicles off the drain field, avoid planting trees near the tank and pipes, and have your system pumped and maintained regularly according to its maintenance plan.
Contact the team at Sod Crew to get your septic system working again.
CONTACT SOD CREW
For quickest response, please text 778-809-0506 for a call back, otherwise complete the form here.
If you are having trouble completing this form, please email us at sales@sodcrew.com.