What is the potential consequence of inadequate OSSF maintenance?

Inadequate maintenance of an On-Site Sewage Facility (OSSF) can lead to less effective treatment of wastewater. When OSSF systems are not properly maintained, it can result in the accumulation of solids and other materials that can clog the system, preventing it from functioning as intended. This inefficiency means that wastewater may not be treated adequately, potentially leading to the discharge of untreated or partially treated effluent into the environment, which can harm local water bodies and groundwater resources.

The other options address scenarios that do not align with the consequences of poor maintenance. For example, increased operational costs may occur as a result of repairs needed for a failing system, but it does not directly reflect the primary consequence of untreated wastewater. Similarly, improved environmental impact and a longer lifespan of the system are outcomes that would typically result from proper maintenance rather than from neglect, making these options inconsistent with the core issue of inadequate OSSF maintenance.