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Make an as-built site record and do a first-storm check

Record where everything actually went, then check drainage and erosion controls in the first big storm.

How

1. Update the master plan with measured positions and depths of all pipes, conduits, tanks, septic components and culverts, with photos before backfill.
2. Store copies digitally and on paper with the house manual.
3. During or after the first heavy rain, walk the site: check ditches, culverts, outlets, foundation drainage and septic area for ponding, overflow or scour.
4. Fix problems immediately with extra rock, regrading or diversions.

Safety: Do not stand in flowing water or near culvert inlets in a storm.

Do these first

• site-21
• site-22

Sources

1. Low-Volume Roads Engineering Best Management Practices, Chapter 5: Hydrologic Analysis. USDA Forest Service, accessed 2026-11
2. Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems Manual, Chapter 5: Treatment System Selection. US Environmental Protection Agency (copy hosted by Iowa State University), accessed 2026-11

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