Documenting Root Intrusion in Septic Systems

Root intrusion is one of the most common and most overlooked issues found during onsite wastewater treatment system inspections.While many inspectors recognize the symptoms, few take the time to fully document the extent of intrusion or understand the implications for system function, property owners and long-term maintenance planning. With renewed industry attention on chemical and mechanical root control, this topic is an important part of every inspection report and a central element of NAWT’s updated Inspection Standards Course.Roots seek out moisture and oxygen. This makes tanks, risers, distribution boxes and laterals a natural target. Even small openings at joints, cracks