Septic in Phenix City, AL

In Phenix City, you'll notice that many homes quietly rely on septic systems tucked behind a hedge or a side yard—a practical, local solution that pairs well with our clay and loamy soils. It's the everyday reality for lots of neighborhoods here, especially where extending a sewer main hasn't been practical or affordable.

Is septic common in Phenix City? Should I expect septic if I own or buy a home? Yes to both. Septic systems are common, particularly in areas not served by a municipal sewer line or in older subdivisions that pre-date nearby sewer access. If you're buying a home here, take a moment to confirm whether the house ties into city sewer or runs on a septic system. If there isn't a sewer connection available for the property, you should indeed expect a septic system. To be sure, ask the seller for the septic permit and any maintenance records, look for a cleanout and a visible drain field area in the yard, and consider having a local licensed septic contractor review the system and any pumping history.

Why do homes in Phenix City typically use septic systems? A high-level view: expanding sewer mains to every property is expensive and logistically challenging in a growing area. A well-designed on-site septic system offers a reliable, predictable solution that supports individual lots without dragging in costly municipal infrastructure. The right system takes advantage of the region's soils and lot layouts, but it does require proper siting, installation, and regular maintenance. In Phenix City, you'll find that soil type, lot size, and proximity to sewer lines all help determine whether septic is the best fit for a home—when designed correctly, it's a clean, efficient way to manage wastewater right where you live.

A few quick reminders for upkeep: know where the tank is, keep records of inspections and pump-outs, and treat the system with care—watery, heavy-use days, grease, and harsh chemicals can upset the balance. If you ever notice slow drains, gurgling sounds, or odors, a local septic pro can help you diagnose and keep things running smoothly, preserving your investment and your family's comfort here in Phenix City.

Where Septic Systems Are Common in Phenix City

Areas where septic systems are still common

• Rural outskirts and unsewered neighborhoods within Phenix City's broader area. If a property is outside the city's main sewer service lines, septic is the practical option for wastewater treatment.
• Older parcels with small lots where extending municipal sewer wasn't economical or feasible when they were developed. Some of these areas still rely on individual systems today.
• Properties near the Chattahoochee River corridor or floodplains, where city sewer expansion hasn't kept pace with growth or where soil and groundwater conditions make extending lines challenging.
• Groundwater- or soil-constraint zones where municipal sewer coverage exists but connection is impractical for individual properties due to distance, slope, or capacity concerns.

Why these patterns exist

• Phenix City blends urban cores with rural surroundings. The city provides sewer where infrastructure has been built out, but not every parcel is within a current or planned service boundary.
• Extending sewer to every lot is expensive. When a subdivision or property sits on land that's far from the sewer main, the cost of extending lines can deter upgrades, leading homeowners to opt for septic systems.
• Local soils and groundwater influence septic feasibility. Areas with slow-draining clays, high water tables, or flood-prone soils may require specialized septic designs, which affects whether extensions are pursued and how systems are installed.

How to tell if your property uses septic

1. Check your property's sewer service status with the City of Phenix City or your county officials. If there's no active sewer connection, your home may be on a septic system.
2. Look for a septic-related permit or record on file with the county health department (common for properties that had simple wastewater solutions before modern sewer expansion).
3. Have a licensed septic professional inspect if you're unsure. They can identify tank size, drain field condition, and whether routine maintenance is due.
4. Review your utility bills and home construction records for indications of a septic system rather than a city sewer hookup.

Common site and soil considerations in Phenix City

• Floodplain and soil type effects: river-adjacent areas often have higher water tables and clay-heavy soils that affect drain-field performance and may require alternative designs.
• Lot size and slope: steeper lots or smaller parcels may complicate drain-field layout, influencing system choice and spacing.
• Proximity to wells and water sources: local regulations require setback distances from wells and watercourses to protect drinking water and the environment.
• Maintenance implications: septic systems in these areas may require more frequent pumping or specialized management if soils are slow to drain.

Official resources to learn more

• EPA: Septic systems overview and maintenance guidance.

Septic vs Sewer: What Homeowners in Phenix City Should Know

How septic systems differ from sewer

• On-site vs centralized: A septic system processes wastewater on your property, using a tank and a soil absorption field. Wastewater from your home goes into the tank, where solids settle, and liquid effluent leaches into the drain field.
• Municipal collection: A sewer system transports wastewater through underground pipes to a central treatment plant operated by the city or utility.
• Responsibility: With septic, you're responsible for maintenance, pumping, and replacement. With sewer, the utility handles treatment and major system upkeep; you pay a monthly sewer bill as part of your water services.

Costs and maintenance expectations

• Pumping and tank size: Most homes with septic tanks require pumping every 3–5 years. Frequency depends on tank size, household size, and water usage.
• Typical pumping costs: Expect roughly $300–$600 per pump, depending on your location and tank size.
• Sewer costs: Monthly sewer charges vary by utility and usage, and cover treatment and system maintenance performed by the city.
• Installation and replacement: Septic system installation or replacement is a substantial, often one-time investment. Connecting to municipal sewer adds hookup fees and ongoing monthly charges but removes on-site field maintenance responsibilities.

Phenix City-specific considerations

• Determine your service type: Inside Phenix City city limits, many homes are connected to municipal sewer, but some properties—especially outside the core city limits or in rural pockets—still rely on septic. Check with the City of Phenix City for current sewer service status and accessibility.
  • City of Phenix City (official site):
• If you have a septic system: Your site conditions matter. Soil type, groundwater depth, and drainage influence system longevity and performance. Alabama requires appropriate siting, operation, and maintenance; consult the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) Onsite Wastewater Program for guidance.
  • ADPH onsite wastewater resources: https://www.alabamapublichealth.gov/environment/onsite-wastewater.html
• Transfers and regulations: Local regulations may require inspections, pump records, or disclosure during property transfers. Staying current on maintenance helps prevent compliance issues and protects your investment.

Signs of trouble and what to do

• Common warning signs:
  • Slow drains, gurgling toilets, or frequent backups
  • Bad odors around the drains or yard
  • Wet or soggy areas, sultry patches, or bright green vegetation over the drain field
  • Water or sewage backing up into basements or lowest drains
• what to do:
  1. Avoid driving or parking over the septic drain field to prevent compaction.
  2. Contact a licensed septic contractor to diagnose and pump if needed.
  3. If you suspect a public sewer issue, report it to your local utility (and ADPH if there's contamination risk).

Quick maintenance checklist

• Use water efficiently: spread out loads of laundry; fix leaks; install high-efficiency fixtures.
• Protect the drain field: keep heavy equipment off the absorption area; plant only grasses over it.
• Waste disposal: don't flush wipes, grease, solvents, paints, pesticides, or chemicals; use garbage disposal sparingly if you have a septic system.
• Routine care: have a professional inspect your system at least every year or per manufacturer guidance; pump when the tank is full and records are up to date.

Resources and official guidance

• EPA septic systems overview and maintenance tips: https://www.epa.gov/septic
• Alabama ADPH Onsite Wastewater Program: https://www.alabamapublichealth.gov/environment/onsite-wastewater.html
• City of Phenix City official site (for sewer service and city resources): https://www.phenixcityal.gov

Typical Septic System Types in Phenix City

Conventional septic system with drainfield

• What it is: A buried septic tank connected to a network of perforated pipes in a gravel-filled trench or bed (drainfield). Wastewater is treated as it percolates through the soil.
• How it works: Waste solids stay in the tank, liquids exit to the drainfield where soil microbes break down remaining waste.
• When it's a good fit: Most residential lots with adequate soils and groundwater depth.
• Pros/cons:
  • Pros: Usually lowest upfront cost, simple design, plenty of local manufacturing support.
  • Cons: Performance depends on soil quality; inappropriate soils or high water tables can require alternatives.
• Maintenance note: Regular pumping every 3–5 years (or as recommended) and occasional inspection of the tank and drainfield.

Mound system

• What it is: A raised drainfield built above native soil on a fill layer, with sand or other media to improve treatment.
• When it's a good fit: Shallow bedrock, high groundwater, or poor near-surface soils in Phenix City areas.
• How it works: Wastewater is pre-treated in a tank, then pumped up to the elevated drainfield where it percolates through highly filtered media.
• Pros/cons:
  • Pros: Enables treatment where conventional drainfields won't perform due to soil limitations.
  • Cons: Higher installation and maintenance costs; longer-term upkeep due to more components.
• Maintenance note: Requires a service plan with an installer for monitoring and pumping as needed.

Aerobic Treatment Units (ATU) and package plants

• What they are: mechanically aerated treatment systems that boost breakdown of waste before disposal to an absorption area or irrigation system.
• How they work: An air source (or enclosed reactor) keeps microorganisms thriving, producing a higher-quality effluent than traditional septic systems.
• When it's a good fit: Lots with challenging soils, limited space, or when a more reliable effluent quality is needed.
• Pros/cons:
  • Pros: More tolerant of soils with limited absorptive capacity; compact footprint.
  • Cons: Higher energy use and ongoing maintenance/ service contracts; need for regular inspections.
• Maintenance note: Requires regular professional service; keep a log of service visits and pump-outs as recommended.

Sand filter systems

• What they are: An above- or below-ground treatment unit where effluent from the tank passes through a bed of sand to remove contaminants.
• How they work: Treated effluent from the septic tank feeds the sand filter, where biological and physical processes further clean it before disposal.
• Pros/cons:
  • Pros: Effective in areas with marginal soils; can handle higher loading when paired with a proper drainfield.
  • Cons: More components to maintain; may require periodic sanding or media replacement.
• Maintenance note: Schedule routine inspections and follow the manufacturer's guidance for media replacement.

Chamber systems and drip dispersion

• What they are: Prefabricated, modular chamber systems replace traditional gravel trenches; drip irrigation disperses treated effluent to landscape areas.
• How they work: Chambers create a network for uniform distribution; drip lines deliver effluent to plants, reducing surface seepage.
• Pros/cons:
  • Pros: Easier installation, potential for smaller footprint, versatile in constrained sites.
  • Cons: Drip systems are subject to local regulation; some layouts require careful design to prevent irrigation-related issues.
• Maintenance note: Regular inspection for clogs, leaks, and proper emitter operation.

Holding tanks and other alternatives

• What they are: Non-dispersal tanks that store wastewater for disposal at a later time or at a remote treatment facility.
• When it's a good fit: Extremely restrictive sites or when connectivity to a conventional system isn't feasible.
• Pros/cons:
  • Pros: Simple structure, good for short-term needs or permitting contingencies.
  • Cons: Not a long-term disposal solution; frequent pumping is essential; space and regulatory constraints apply.
• Maintenance note: Very schedule-dependent; strict pumping and disposal logs are important.

Getting the right system for Phenix City: 5 steps

1. Have a licensed contractor perform a soil/site evaluation and percolation test for your lot.
2. Check local permits and inspections required by the state and Russell County/Phenix City regulations.
3. Compare system types based on soil, groundwater, space, and budget.
4. Confirm ongoing maintenance requirements and service contracts before installation.
5. Establish a maintenance plan with a qualified professional and keep records.

Official resources:

• EPA Septic Systems: https://www.epa.gov/septic
• Alabama Department of Public Health – Septic Tank/Drainfield guidance: https://www.alabamapublichealth.gov/environment/septic-tank-drainfield.html

Common Septic Issues in Phenix City

Common Sources of Problems

• Age and condition of components: Tanks, lids, baffles, and drain fields wear out over time. In Phenix City, older homes may have septic systems that are reaching the end of their useful life, increasing the risk of leaks or failures.
• Soil and groundwater realities: Phenix City sits near flood-prone areas and has soil profiles that can include clay layers and high water tables in certain neighborhoods. These conditions can flood or saturate the drain field, causing effluent to back up or surface.
• Heavy seasonal rainfall and flooding: Scrambling water in the landscape during wet seasons can saturate the drain field, reducing its ability to absorb effluent and speeding up system failure.
• Tree roots and landscape: Large trees and robust root systems near the septic drain field will seek moisture and nutrients, potentially clogging or breaking underground pipes and the drain field.
• Improper disposal habits: Flushable wipes, feminine products, grease, solvents, and chemical cleaners can clog or kill beneficial bacteria in the tank, leading to backups and longer pumping intervals.
• Overloading the system: Large households, frequent short-cycle uses (dishwashers, garbage disposals), and irrigation or car washing near the drain field all increase the load on a septic system and hasten failure.

Phenix City-Specific Considerations

• Flood-prone areas and high water table pockets: In low-lying parts of Phenix City, drain fields are more likely to be overwhelmed after heavy rain or flood events, causing surfacing and backups.
• Clay-rich soils in some neighborhoods: Areas with dense clay slow down drainage, making drain fields more susceptible to saturation and longer recovery times after wet spells.
• Proximity to the Chattahoochee River: Groundwater movement near the river can elevate the water table, particularly during wet seasons, increasing the risk of effluent surfacing or system backups.
• Older installations: Some Phenix City homes may have septic systems installed decades ago, which may no longer meet current standards or handle modern daily loads without maintenance.

Signs a septic issue is present

• Slow or gurgling drains and toilets
• Sewage odors around the tank lid or drain field
• Wet, marshy ground or lush green growth over the drain field
• Backups or discharge of effluent into tubs, sinks, or toilets
• Frequent need for pumping in a short time frame

Quick action steps if you suspect a problem

1. Note all symptoms (drains, odors, wet spots) and their locations.
2. Limit water use and avoid heavy irrigation or dumping chemicals down drains.
3. Call a licensed septic contractor for an inspection and pumping if indicated.
4. Do not attempt to excavate, probe the drain field, or pressure-test the tank yourself.
5. If there is a sewage backup into the home, minimize usage and contact a professional plumber immediately.

Maintenance and prevention plan (engineered for Phenix City conditions)

1. Schedule proactive pumping every 3–5 years for standard residential systems; shorter intervals may apply for older systems or higher loads.
2. Arrange annual or biennial inspections focusing on tank integrity, baffles, effluent filters, and the drain field's condition.
3. Protect the drain field: keep vehicles off, plant only shallow-rooted grass, and avoid building structures or installing drives over it.
4. Use water wisely: install low-flow fixtures, fix leaks promptly, and spread out irrigation to reduce peak loads.
5. Mind your disposals: avoid grease, solvents, pesticides, and flushing wipes or "flushable" products.
6. Keep records: store pumping dates, inspections, and repairs to guide future maintenance.

When to seek professional help

• You notice surfacing effluent, a strong sewage odor, or wet areas in the yard near the drain field.
• Drains are repeatedly slow or backups occur despite pumping.
• You suspect root intrusion, cracking, or tank damage, or your system is older than 20–30 years.
• You've had multiple wet seasons with drain-field saturation and repeated recoveries are taking longer.

Resources

• EPA Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems:

Septic Inspection, Permits & Local Oversight

Who Oversees Septic Systems in Phenix City

• In Phenix City (Russell County), septic systems are regulated primarily through the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) On-Site Sewage Program, which sets state standards for installation, maintenance, and repairs.
• Local oversight and inspections are typically handled by the Russell County Health Department in coordination with ADPH.
• City-level permits related to construction that could affect septic performance may involve the county health department or the city's building/planning staff. If you're planning major site work, check both county and city requirements early.

Permits You Might Need

• New installation or replacement of an on-site system: permit required.
• Significant repairs, expansions, or changes to the drainfield or tank: permit required.
• Site evaluation, soil testing, and septic design plans: permit and approval required.
• Routine maintenance or non-disruptive repairs typically do not require a new permit, but documentation and inspections may still be requested during work.
• If you're buying, selling, or remodeling, obtain and review permit history and system records as part of the transaction.

The Inspection Process (What to Expect)

1. Hire a licensed or certified onsite wastewater professional to assess the system.
2. Contact the Russell County Health Department to schedule the inspection and determine what documents are needed (maps, past permits, pumping records).
3. On-site review includes: tank condition and pumping history, pump and mechanical function, setback compliance, soil conditions, and the drainfield's integrity.
4. The inspector issues a report with findings and any required corrections or permit actions.
5. Complete any required corrections and obtain final clearance before closing out the permit.

What to Have Ready for Inspections

• Recent pumping or maintenance receipts and dates.
• System location sketch or property plat showing the tank and drainfield.
• Previous permits, design plans, and any repair invoices.
• Any photos of the system in service or during recent work.
• A list of outdoor obstructions or landscaping changes that could affect the drainfield (as-built accuracy helps).

What to Expect During a Home Sale or Transfer

• Many transactions benefit from an upfront septic inspection to identify issues before closing.
• Some buyers and lenders require a current inspection and proof of permit status.
• Ensure all older or repaired components have valid permits and that the records match the physical system.

Local Oversight Details

• The Russell County Health Department, with support from ADPH, administers most on-site wastewater permits and inspections in Phenix City.
• Keep in mind: local offices may request specific forms, setback confirmations, or soil evaluation documentation depending on site conditions.
• For questions or to schedule inspections, start with your county health department and reference ADPH guidelines.

Resources

• Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) – On-Site Sewage Program (official guidance and contact points): https://www.alabamapublichealth.gov/
• Russell County Health Department (local oversight and inspections): https://www.alabamapublichealth.gov/russell/

Septic Maintenance for Homes in Phenix City

Phenix City-specific considerations

Phenix City sits near the Chattahoochee River, which can influence groundwater levels and drain-field performance. Soils in the area can vary, with clay and silt zones that slow leachate or trap moisture after heavy rains. A rising water table during wet seasons or flood events can reduce absorption capacity and increase the risk of surface seepage or backups. Understanding your property's soil type, slope, and flood risk helps you tailor maintenance and drainage practices to keep the system healthy.

Regular maintenance you can count on

• Pump every 3–5 years as a baseline, sooner if you have a large family, a garbage disposal, or frequent use. A professional pump removes both liquid and solids that can accumulate and reduce tank efficiency.
• Schedule inspections every 1–2 years to verify tank integrity, baffles, and the condition of the distribution box and drain field.
• Keep a simple map of where the system components sit (tank lid locations, drain-field trenches, and backup access points). This helps avoid accidental damage during yard work.

Daily practices that protect your septic

• Conserve water: spread laundry across the week, fix leaks, and use low-flow fixtures. Less daily volume reduces the load on the system.
• Be mindful of what goes into the drain: only human waste and toilet paper; avoid flushable wipes, feminine products, grease, coffee grounds, kitchen fats, and chemicals.
• Use the garbage disposal sparingly. It adds solids that must break down in the septic tank and can accelerate tank buildup.
• Protect the drain field: keep vehicles, heavy equipment, and parking off the absorption area. Plant only shallow-rooted grass and avoid trees or shrubs with aggressive roots nearby.

Seasonal and flood-aware tips

• After heavy rains or flood events, observe for signs of surface dampness, gurgling, or backups in drains. Groundwater saturation reduces absorption and can overwhelm the system.
• If your property lies in a flood-prone area near the river, raise awareness of potential drainage constraints and consider proactive pumping or field maintenance if advised by a septic professional.
• Maintain proper surface grading to direct runoff away from the drain field, especially on sloped Phenix City yards where rainwater can pool around the absorption area.

Signs of trouble and what to do

• Slow drains, gurgling sounds in pipes, sewage odors, or sewage surfacing on the ground are red flags.
• If you notice backups or unusual liquid pooling on the drain field, minimize water use and contact a licensed septic professional promptly.
• Do not attempt DIY repairs on the tank or field beyond basic routine maintenance; improper handling can cause further damage.

Troubleshooting steps (simple, non-technical)

1. Shut off unnecessary water-using appliances temporarily to relieve pressure.
2. Avoid fertilizers or lawn chemicals near the drain field, which can harm beneficial soil bacteria.
3. Schedule an inspection with a licensed septic service provider to evaluate tank integrity, baffles, and distribution system.

Regulations and official resources

• Alabama Department of Public Health – Onsite Sewage (Septic) information and regulations: https://www.alabamapublichealth.gov/septic/
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency – Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems guidance: https://www.epa.gov/septic
• For general soil and water guidance relevant to septic health in Alabama: https://www.epa.gov/septic/what-septic-system

Cost Expectations for Septic Services in Phenix City

Septic Tank Pumping

• What it includes: removing sludge and scum from the tank, inspecting baffles, and ensuring access ports are clean. In Phenix City, pumping is commonly done every 3–5 years for typical residential tanks (1,000–1,500 gallons), with more frequent service if usage is high or the system shows signs of trouble.
• Phenix City specifics: clay soils, high water tables, and seasonal rains can affect the drain field's recovery after pumping. Narrow access or hillside lots may require longer hoses or specialized equipment.
• Typical cost in Phenix City: roughly $250–$500 for a standard 1,000–1,500 gallon tank; $500–$900 for larger or harder-to-reach tanks.
• Official resources: EPA Septic Systems (epa.gov/septic); Alabama environmental and public health guidance (adem.alabama.gov, alabamapublichealth.gov).

Septic Tank Inspection

• What it includes: visual tank inspection, checks of inlet/outlet baffles, sludge/scum assessment, and record-keeping. May include dye testing or camera inspection of lateral lines if issues are suspected.
• Phenix City specifics: common during home sales and refinancing; buyers often request a formal inspection to accompany disclosures.
• Typical cost in Phenix City: $100–$250 for a basic inspection; $150–$350 if a camera/lateral line review is included.
• Official resources: EPA Septic Systems; Alabama public health guidance (ADPH/ADENV resources).

Drain Field Evaluation and Soil Testing

• What it includes: soil tests or percolation tests to determine absorption capacity, dye tests, and assessment of current drain field performance.
• Phenix City specifics: heavy clay soils and proximity to groundwater can limit field performance; local ordinances may require evaluation before upgrades or replacements.
• Typical cost in Phenix City: $300–$600 for a professional evaluation; separate lab tests may add cost.
• Official resources: EPA Septic Systems; ADEM Onsite Wastewater Program information.

Drain Field Repair

• What it includes: trench repair or reconstruction, replacement of damaged lateral lines, venting adjustments, and restoring proper drainage and grading.
• Phenix City specifics: repairs may be complicated by clay soil, lawn/planning constraints, and access across driveways or landscaping.
• Typical cost in Phenix City: $1,000–$5,000 for standard fixes; more extensive repairs can rise to $8,000–$15,000.
• Official resources: EPA Septic Systems; ADPH/DEQ guidance for repairs and permits.

Drain Field Replacement

• What it includes: full field replacement, possibly relocation of the absorption area, or installation of a mound system if soil conditions require it.
• Phenix City specifics: soil challenges or high groundwater can push projects toward mound or advanced treatment options; planning and permits are especially important.
• Typical cost in Phenix City: $5,000–$20,000 for conventional replacement; $20,000–$40,000+ for mound or advanced systems.
• Official resources: EPA Septic Systems; ADEM/ADPH guidance on replacement and permitting.

Septic System Installation (New System)

• What it includes: site evaluation, soil testing, system design, permit application, trench layout, and installation of the complete system.
• Phenix City specifics: lot shape and soil type drive design; river-adjacent properties may require enhanced treatment or alternate layouts; permit fees apply.
• Typical cost in Phenix City: $6,000–$15,000 for a conventional system; $15,000–$40,000+ for mound or aerobic systems.
• Official resources: EPA Septic Systems; Alabama public health and environmental management resources.

Aerobic Treatment Unit (ATU) Service

• What it includes: maintenance of ATU components (aeration chamber, pumps, filters), regular pump-outs, and filter/media changes.
• Phenix City specifics: ATUs are more common where soil and groundwater limit conventional systems; they require ongoing maintenance and scheduled service.
• Typical cost in Phenix City: installation/upgrade around $7,000–$20,000; annual maintenance typically $600–$1,000.
• Official resources: EPA Septic Systems; Alabama public health guidance for ATUs.

Permitting, Planning, and Inspections

• What it includes: permit applications, plan reviews, and scheduling inspections with the appropriate local or state agency.
• Phenix City specifics: Russell County Health Department oversight is common; exact fees vary by project size and scope.
• Typical cost in Phenix City: $150–$500 for permits and reviews.
• Official resources: EPA Septic Systems; Alabama Department of Public Health and Alabama Environmental Management resources.

Emergency and Back-Up Repairs

• What it includes: diagnostic visit, temporary containment if needed, and rapid repair of backups or pump failures.
• Phenix City specifics: rural-urban mix can mean varying response times; plan for seasonal weather that may complicate access.
• Typical cost in Phenix City: $500–$4,000 depending on issue and required parts.

Getting started in Phenix City

1. Identify the service you need (pump, inspection, repair, or new system)
2. Check with your local county authority for permits (Russell County/ADPH)
3. Get multiple written estimates and verify contractor licensing
4. Schedule access and consider seasonal weather impacts

Official resources: https://www.epa.gov/septic, https://www.adem.alabama.gov/, https://www.alabamapublichealth.gov/