21 NCAC 39 .1005             ON-SITE WASTEWATER SYSTEM COMPONENTS

(a)  When inspecting an on-site wastewater system the inspector shall inspect and describe the following in a report as set forth in Rule .1002 of this Chapter:

(1)           any part of the system located more than five feet from the primary structure that is part of the operations permit;

(2)           septic tanks;

(3)           pump tanks;

(4)           distribution devices;

(5)           dispersal fields;

(6)           treatment units;

(7)           control panels;

(8)           any other components required as part of on-site wastewater system permit, including drainage; and

(9)           any vegetation and grading with respect only to their effect on the condition of the system or system components.

(b)  The inspector shall:

(1)           uncover tank lids and distribution devices so as to gain access, unless blocked as described in Rule .1004(b)(5) of this Section. The distribution box may remain covered if the inspector has an alternate method of observing its condition;

(2)           probe system components where deterioration is suspected;

(3)           report the methods used to inspect the on-site wastewater system;

(4)           open readily accessible and readily openable components as defined in Rule .1001 of this Chapter;

(5)           report signs of abnormal or harmful water entry into or out of the system or components; and

(6)           conduct the inspection using the rules promulgated under Article 11 of Chapter 130A in effect at the time of the initial construction or renovation of the system, whichever occurs later, and any subsequent installation or replacement of any system or component of the system.

(c)  The inspector shall not be required to:

(1)           conduct dosing volume calculations;

(2)           evaluate soil conditions beyond saturation or ponding;

(3)           evaluate for the presence or condition of buried fuel storage tanks;

(4)           evaluate the system for proper sizing, design, or use of approved materials pursuant to Article 11 of Chapter 130A and the rules promulgated therefrom; or

(5)           perform a hydraulic load test on the system.

History Note:        Authority G.S. 90A-72; 90A-74;

Eff. October 1, 2011;

Amended Eff. January 1, 2013;

Pursuant to G.S. 150B-21.3A, rule is necessary without substantive public interest Eff. January 9, 2018;

Amended Eff. July 1, 2019.