Which indicator suggests that a septic tank might be leaking?

In a septic system, the presence of green grass in areas around the septic tank or drain field can indicate a potential leak. This occurs because the leak allows effluent or partially treated wastewater to escape from the tank and saturate the soil. The added moisture and nutrients from the effluent encourage lush, green vegetation to grow, creating an abnormal patch of grass that differs from the surrounding areas.

Monitoring for unusual growth patterns, such as excessively green grass or plant health around the septic system components, is crucial for diagnosing issues. In contrast, high water levels in the tank, odors nearby, and excessive sludge accumulation each suggest different problems that do not necessarily indicate a leak. For instance, high water levels could indicate a blockage, while odors suggest malfunctioning bacteria or backflow issues in the system.