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After initial assessment I was told it was a two man job who duly arrived in a couple of days with a jetting machine to clear the limescale. They worked very hard to jet the blockage one in the bathroom one outside at the manhole with the jetter. When they were satisfied the soilpipe was clear they inserted a camera so we could all see the there was now no obstruction. They were pleasant and informed me what was happening all the time, I would recommend them to others.
PAT
Very high standard of work carried out by Mark. Solved my issue,very knowledgeable,punctual and tidy. Would recommend & certainly use again.
Patrick
Very good and efficient job, excellent standard of work, well satisfied.
Jeremy
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Septic Tank Emptying, Installation & Cleaning | Find a Septic Tank Service Near You
What is a septic tank?
A septic tank is a type of sewage system for the home, and is generally used in rural properties that can’t be connected to a larger sewer system.
How does a septic system work?
All sewage and wastewater leaves the house via a main pipe, and goes into the septic tank which is buried underground. The tank is usually made of concrete, fibreglass, PVC, or plastic.
Inside the tank, solid waste sinks to the bottom and is partially decomposed by bacteria. Other elements like fat and plastics rise to the top, creating a crust. What’s left in the middle is relatively cleaner water – and we stress the word ‘relative’ here. It’s a long way from being drinking water, but it can be drained into the ground, which disposes of it naturally in the local ecosystem, rather than contributing to the work of a large sewage facility.
When the water leaves the septic tank, it goes into a distribution box. This box feeds the water into a set of underground pipes, which then releases the water into the soil. The ground above these pipes is known as the draining field or soakaway.
The whole system can easily work using gravity, with each component being lower than the last, but if this isn’t possible then pumps can assist in getting the water where it needs to go.
Some water evaporates into the air, and the rest soaks down into the soil. The soil itself filters out chemicals and minerals, while microbes in the soil break down impurities in the same way the septic tank does.
Releasing water back into the ground keeps it moist, and helps plants grow.
The system also requires a vent to release noxious gasses from the septic tank, as well as allow air into the system.
What can a septic tank specialist help with?
Cleaning
The most important thing you’ll need a septic tank specialist for is to clean out the system. The solids at the bottom of the tank, as well as the crust at the top, build up faster than it decomposes. These elements need to be removed from the tank periodically, which is why the tank has access hatches built in. About once a year, you’ll need to arrange for someone to pump out the excess waste. If this is ignored, then the waste will build up and eventually block, backing up into the house.
Installing or replacing a septic tank
Over time, you might need to replace parts, or all, of a septic system. If the system requires cleaning every few months then that’s a sign of blockage or inefficiency. Maybe you can see waste water or sewage coming up from the ground, which could be a sign that the tank is no longer watertight. These are severe cases but they’re the biggest reasons why you might need to replace the system.
You might have a large house with a lot of water usage, in which case you could consider a larger tank. It’s also possible to link two or more tanks together if you need larger capacity.
Costs for septic tank installations and maintenance
- Tanks start at around £800.
- Installation is around £1500.
- The drainage field, or soakaway, costs about £5000 to lay, for about 100 metres of drains. This is the total length of the pipes – you don’t need a 100-metre stretch of land to accommodate it.
- Emptying the tank annually will cost around £150.
Maintenance of your septic tank system
If you want to maintain your system in the best possible way, there are 3 things you need to know.
How the system works.
Everything happens underground and out of sight, so it’s important you know what’s going on. This page tells you everything you need to know, so you’ve got that covered.
Where the pipes are.
If you’re installing a septic tank system, get your installer to show you where everything is, plus you should always keep plans of the work for future reference. If you’re buying a house that already has a system installed, you should ask for the plans. If they’re not available then use a septic tank specialist to help you find out where everything is.
Potential ways you could damage the system.
You shouldn’t build anything on top of the drainage pipes. If you put any sort of shed or building on top of the pipes, you’re almost definitely going to cut or damage them. Also it stops air from getting into the soil, which would hinder the soil’s ability to filter the water.
Likewise, don’t drive over the pipes, or park a vehicle there. This weight will compact the soil and stop it from being able to accept water at all. In severe situations, the weight of a car could even crush the pipes. You shouldn’t keep large animals there – like horses or cows – for the same reason.
Don’t pour waste chemicals, paints, or cooking oils down the sink. These can kill the microbes in the septic tank that break down the solid substances. They can also clog the drainage field which would eventually fill the tank, and back up into the house.
Always know where your access hatches are too, and keep them clear of obstruction.
Lastly, don’t plant any trees or bushes too near the system as the roots could disturb the pipes too.
8 things to check when buying a property with a septic tank
- Ask if the septic tank has been maintained regularly – ask for invoices or receipts for tanker visits or service calls. A septic tank usually needs to be emptied annually.
- Find out how often the system is currently being emptied. If it’s being emptied every few months, this could be a sign of a problem.
- Ask the current owners how much their service costs, so you can work out how much it’ll cost you annually.
- Don’t rely on homebuyer surveys to tell you what’s going on underground – they only take a basic look at drainage systems. It’s crucial you get a full pre-purchase drainage survey before buying somewhere with a septic system. Get the tank emptied at the same time, to make sure the walls and pipework of the tank can be inspected.
- Ask for a plan of the drainage system.
- Find out if any part of the system is on someone else’s land. You need to know what the relationship is like with the landowner as you’ll need access for repairs, replacements and maintenance.
- Think about access to the property. Tankers need to be within 30 metres of the tank to empty it. Are you planning an extension or similar? If so you’ll need to make sure this access is maintained.
Where does the waste water go when it leaves the tank? If it goes straight to a watercourse or a ditch, this isn’t legal any more. By 2020, you’ll need to have it
Planning permission for septic tanks
If you’re installing a new septic tank system
For installations in England, you need planning permission and building regulations approval.
There are different rules for septic tanks and treatment plants in Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.
If you have a system that didn’t get permission and approval
In England, you need to apply retrospectively for both planning permission and building regulations approval.
You don’t need to do this if your system was installed before 1 January 2015.
Regulations for operating a septic system
You must follow the general binding rules if you’re the operator of a septic tank or small sewage treatment plant.
The sewage must:
- Be domestic, for example – from a toilet, bathroom, shower or kitchen of a house, flat or business – contact the Environment Agency if you’re not sure if the sewage is classed as domestic.
- Not cause pollution – find out how to check for pollution.
There are other rules depending on whether you’re releasing sewage to the ground, or into surface water.
Releasing to the ground
You have to use a septic tank or a small sewage treatment plant and a drainage field (infiltration system).
You need to apply for a permit if you release (‘discharge’):
- To a well, borehole or other deep structure.
- More than 2 cubic metres (2,000 litres) per day.
- In a groundwater source protection zone (SPZ1).
Releasing to a surface water
You must use a small sewage treatment plant. You must apply for a permit if you’re discharging more than 5 cubic metres (5,000 litres) per day. Use the calculator to work out how much you discharge per day.
Find out more on the government’s website.
Insurance for skill work
All tradespeople should have public liability insurance, which protects you, and them, against any accidents or injury.
www.kbaconstruction.online MAKE YOUR HOUSE INTO A HOME TODAY WITH KBA CONSTRUCTION'S We are a building company with many years combined experience. working as Builder in London (UK), we help to make your house a home or property investment you can rely on.
Did a fantastic job and at good price
Ruhulla Test
We are general builders and groundwork contractors going the extra mile ,we have many satisfied customers more info can be supplied on request , check out my website all work has been completed by.uS. To a very high standard
MWE Builders removed our old garage, re built a new larger block construction garage, and we are very pleased with all of the work completed. Throughout the build we were kept informed of every stage, Matt was on site every day, even through some horrible wet weather. I would highly recommend MWE Builders, for price, quality, and friendliness. Thank you Matt, we appreciate all of the work you have done. Many Thanks Will and Wendy Kingswood Bristol
hello I have 15 year in the trade I am a multi skilled tradesmen who takes pride in what I do I love my job I work on a basis you not happy with my work you don't pay simple as that I am fully insured and vetted
Top class service really friendly people ..love our flooring thank you very much we will use again.
Growing up, we were immersed in the building trade through our father’s work. Tom in particular, would assist our father on weekends, serving as his labourer. Tom’s main specialism is plumbing please see below ratings and reviews. After forging separate career paths in customer care, the NHS, and the plumbing industry we decided to pool our collective skills in customer service management and building services industry knowledge. During this time, Beth also founded an independent cleaning business while still maintaining her full time employment, with a primary focus on changeover cleans. We identified a niche for a building services company that offers an integrated cleaning service. We help you improve your home, whilst treating it like our own. If it wouldn’t happen in our own house it won’t happen in yours, remember we are great problem solvers with 50+ years of experience. As well as helping home owners on a regular basis, we specialise with holiday let management focusing on package bundles of cleaning, maintenance, and health and safety compliance to streamline processes to allow owners more freedom and let go of the day to day. Plumbing charges are as follows: Minimum charge per visit excluding parts is £155.00 including call out (no vat) Our minimum hourly rate chargeable is £45.00 (no vat) Minimum Call Out Fee £95.00 (no vat) After 6pm and Weekend Call Out Fees Minimum Charge: £180.00 (no vat) Replacement of toilet siphon Min Charge £280 inc. parts and fittings (no vat)
A successful, tidy plumbing solution. Recommended professional.
Valentino has done a fantastic job of bathroom and kitchen refurbishment. He has delivered what he had promised no hidden charges and no false promises. Very reliable and soft spoken. He uses the best material in the market so quality of product is very good. He did the facia as well which is also of very good specifications. Overall he is a fantastic builder and I would 100% recommend him.
FINISHERS. You're complete building & decorating solutions. Established 1995 , finishers is a family ran business in the centre of Cambridge we guarantee any work undertaken will be completed to the highest standards. For a free quote contact FINISHERS
Michael replaced the window in the garage with a glass door on time and on budget. He is easy to communicate with, cheerful , efficient, and tidy. We liked his positive attitude.
Here is a description about my company testing 2 updating just testing
Test without the bad word
Welcome to JBLB Plumbing and Heating Services . We are a small family-run plumbing company who specialise in domestic plumbing repairs and installations, radiator and boiler upgrades, bathroom installation and mobility / walk in showers. As a company, we pride ourselves on delivering all of our customers with a prompt and reliable service, no matter how small the job may be. We also offer discounts to OAPs for most small plumbing repairs and installations.
Job done on time and quickly. Arrived when they said they would. Easy to deal with. Would recommend.
No job is too big or too small for Builder Brothers! With over 15 years of experience in the field our company is confident that we can provide the best service that meets your expectations.
Simply the BEST! I would give them 10 stars if I could. Outstanding work, outstanding service, outstanding quality, outstanding level of detail and outstanding people. Shadi, Rabee and team, not only sorted out my leak, they undertook a major project to repipe my home, fix electrics, paint , put up new storage space, carpentry work , fixing walls etc. The first time that I have seen any builder finish weeks ahead of schedule. They are extremely well organised and operate to the highest degree of precision.
We are a small company focusing on client satisfaction. I have worked in every aspect of the landscaping industry for 35 years. During which i have achieved 2 medals at Hampton court palace flower show. We keep it personal and we build what the client wants. We are also fully qualified civil engineers and drainage engineers which comes in very useful when landscaping as we can asses drainage issues and design problems before they arise A full design service is also available with a massive portfolio to back it up with We design and build for you not for us and we make sure your garden should be exactly what you want it to be at a budget you set
Frank and his team were professional and efficient throughout. He made interesting suggestions to the design at the outset. They arrived to start the job when agreed and explained how the tasks would be completed. All work was carried out to a high standard, and it was noticeable how organised and tidy they were. The final result is brilliant, exceeding our expectations. We thoroughly recommend Frank and his team.
All aspects of heating and plumbing LPG GAS OIL
Arrived on time, work completed professionally.
Very fast service. Well within my budget.
The Drain Engineers
Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning
The Drain Engineers Provide Expert Blocked Drain Repairs And Cleaning Services To Ensure Your Drainage System Functions Smoothly. Our Skilled Technicians Use Cutting-Edge Equipment To Clear Blockages And Perform Thorough Cleaning, Preventing Future Issues. From Minor Clogs To Major Obstructions, We Handle It All With Precision And Care. Additionally, We Offer Reliable Repair Services To Fix Any Damage Caused By Blockages, Restoring Your Drains To Optimal Condition. Count On Us For Efficient, Professional, And Long-Lasting Solutions To Keep Your Drains Flowing Freely. Your Satisfaction And Convenience Are Our Top Priorities. Fully insured and all work guaranteed for your peace of mind
A & L Ever Ready Cleaning & Building Maintenance LTD
Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning
I've been working in the maintenance Industry for the past 19 years and i've worked for 6 different councils in London, I've been trading since 2012 with this company.
The quote from Sebastien/A and L ever ready was competitive. They were willing to tailor the job to what I could afford. They filled me with confidence, unlike some others, and did more than I expected for the price. The team couldn't have been nicer. I really can't praise them enough for the work they did on my Jungle/garden.
Apex Residential & Commercial Cleaning
Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning
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Here at Apex we take pride in all our work and focus on maintaining customer satisfaction. All jobs are thoroughly checked to ensure the highest standard of work has been carried out before it’s signed off.
Really helpful and quickly did the work which I'm delighted with would definitely recommend and I'll be using him again
Prestige London Construction Ltd
Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning
"Our extensive experience in construction ranges from simple bathroom renovations to large home extensions, loft conversions, and new builds. We collaborate with architects and structural engineers who can visit your home, take measurements, and quickly turn your vision into reality. Whether you already have designs but need pricing, or require budget-friendly solutions, we offer online quotes. Share your plans or ideas, and we'll provide guidance. Perhaps you're just starting with an idea for interior renovation, kitchen extension, loft conversion, or creating designs with architects, builders, or investing in real estate to increase property value – we welcome any inquiry. Feel free to contact us!"
We have over 50 years of experience in the construction industry. Specialising in high pressure cleansing/ jetting, with hot water or media blasting if required. Paths, patio's drives, walls, maintenance contracts. Drain jetting, 24 hour availability
They arrived when they said they would. Very friendly and got on promptly with the works. Left the premises clean and tidy and was happy with the cost - not forgetting they sorted the issue out we had. would and will recommend.
17+ years doing plumbing and electrics. City & Guilds • Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Plumbing and Heating: Suitable if you have some relevant knowledge and skills, focusing on domestic hot and cold water systems, central heating systems, sanitation, and gas safety. • Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Installing and Maintaining Domestic Heating Systems: Covers safe working practices, installation and maintenance of hot water systems, drainage systems, and domestic heating systems. • Level 3 NVQ Diplomas: Aimed at those with considerable experience, offering pathways in domestic plumbing and heating, including gas, oil firing, and environmental technologies like solar thermal hot water systems . I am also accredited by these associations. • Chartered Institute of Plumbing & Heating Engineering (CIPHE): CIPHE is a professional body for the UK plumbing and heating industry, aiming to ensure high standards of practice and professionalism. It offers various resources and training opportunities to its members . • Engineering Council: The Engineering Council is the UK regulatory body for the engineering profession, including gas engineering. It oversees the Engineering Accreditation Board (EAB), which accredits academic programs for Chartered Engineer and Incorporated Engineer status. This accreditation process assures the competence, ethics, and professionalism of engineers in the UK and abroad . • APHC Certification Ltd.: Accredited by the United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS), APHC operates several government-authorized plumbing and heating certification schemes. These include the Competent Persons Scheme, which allows businesses to self-certify their compliance with building regulations, and the Microgeneration Certification Scheme, certifying the installation of renewable technologies . These bodies play crucial roles in maintaining high standards within the plumbing and gas engineering sectors, offering pathways for professionals to demonstrate their competence and professionalism. For further details, you may visit the respective websites of CIPHE, the Engineering Council, and APHC.
30 years plus of experience, all general work carried out. Clean and tidy worker always reliable.
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