Find a local septic tank installer or cleaner
Over 10,000 rated tradespeople
are ready to help you get your job done
Over 3 million happy homeowners
have found a quality tradesperson
Over 1 million ratings
with 88,000 5* ratings in the last 12 months
Our most popular drainage specialist jobs
Join our group of happy customers
Thousands of 5 star reviews
Read real reviews from customers about their service experiences.
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
This page has everything you’ll need to know about finding and hiring a local septic tank specialist.
Browse Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning specialists
Take a look at our Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning specialists profiles, read reviews and request quotes directly.
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.
Father's House Carpentry/Painting & Decorating Services
Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning
Based in Bath, Father's House Carpentry/ Painting & Decorating is a trusted, rated and reliable team of Carpentry specialist.
Very good
Are you in search of a reliable and experienced building and landscape company? Look no further than LT Construction & Landscape Ltd! With over 20 years of experience, we have established ourselves as a professional, family-run business dedicated to providing top-notch services to our clients. From painting and decorating to new build extensions and garden services, we offer a wide range of construction and landscaping solutions to meet your needs. Whether you are looking to renovate your home or create a stunning outdoor space, we have got you covered. At LT Construction & Landscape Ltd, we take pride in our work and strive to exceed our clients' expectations. Our team of experts is committed to delivering high-quality results, ensuring that every project is completed to the highest standards. What sets us apart from other companies is our dedication to customer satisfaction. We understand that every project is unique, and we work closely with our clients to ensure that their vision comes to life. We prioritize open communication, transparency, and integrity in all our interactions, creating a seamless and stress-free experience for our clients. As a token of appreciation for choosing us, we promise to beat any quote you've had. This is our way of saying thank you for trusting us with your project. We are confident in the value we bring to our clients and are committed to providing affordable solutions without compromising on quality. So, if you're in need of reliable and professional construction and landscape services, look no further than LT Construction & Landscape Ltd. Contact us today for a free quote and let us help you bring your vision to life. #construction #landscape #building #renovations #freequote ????????
Contractors made arrangements to call, arrived on time, they seemed very nice & efficient; however we did not receive a quote as promised, when I queried it; he apologized saying he thought he had emailed me to say it would be late as he had broken his collarbone. Then I received a text saying he wasn't going to quote as he was off sick for 6 weeks, so unfortunately we are unable to rate his work...
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
From taps to central heating, no job is too big or small. A fully qualified plumber with over a decade of experience in plumbing, heating, and total building solutions. Certified with a C&G 6129 in General Plumbing since 2010, I pride myself on delivering fast, reliable, and friendly service you can trust.
Did the work quickly and efficiently.
General maintenance
All work completed on time and on budget and to a very high standard. Couldn’t have asked for better.
Buster Construction and Renovations
Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning
We are a family run business with over 15 years in the building trade. From joiners, plumbers, electricians, painting/decorators, landscapers and plasterers we have it all. We take great pride in our work and customer care is priority.
Great service and very efficient, friendly and helpful - very happy with the work!
22 YEARS EXPERIENCE ON BUILDING and construction. With my team we did from Garden Landscape all the way to new build yet making sure Clinet saves as much as possible on they projects cost . We are qualified Gas safety Electrical Plumbing We specialaise on: Loft conversion Bathroom Kitchen Extensions Paiting and Decorating Plumbing Roofing Garden Landscaping Insured and insurance backed services
Prompt efficient service. Left area clean after work completed.
My company has over 40 years experience in plumbing, Heating and Drainage from the ground up, from 1st and 2nd fix building following drawings to 1mm tolerance to maintenance skills and knowledge of older systems. Our specialties are the whole spectrum of commercial and domestic services maintenance from tap washers to finding troublesome leaks. Blockages are one of our favourite plumbing issues to attend to, the satisfaction of getting your maintenance problems sorted is second to none.
Brilliant work, friendly, reliable and a reasonable price too. Would highly recommend, will use again.
We are a family run business and pride ourselves on a prompt, reliable and friendly service. Fully Insured, time served Tradesmen with over 35 years experience Plumbing and Gas Safe registered. Property Refurbishment Specialists. 24 Hour call outs
Arrived on time, did a very professional job for a good price, and we are very pleased with the result. We would thoroughly recommend.
30 years plus of experience, all general work carried out. Clean and tidy worker always reliable.
Would definitely use Dave again, he was prompt with his quote, he arrived on time, did the job without any fuss - left me an invoice to pay and went on his way - if only all trades people could be like Dave.
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
Luke Taylor Construction
Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning
Before anything else, preparation is the key to success!!! All jobs require the highest level of effort and attention to detail, my belief is every customer deserves the service I would expect for myself. I can offer professional advice and assistance to the keen DIY’er or self builder. Alternatively, I can take on and complete your home improvement projects. No job too big or small. Exterior jobs include but not limited to: •Painting •Patios & Decking •Driveways •Fencing •Drainage •Sheds and bases •Raised planters •Landscaping •Garden clearance •Demolition work •All small jobs including garden furniture assembly Interior jobs include but not limited to: •Painting and decorating •carpentry work •Light fittings and socket replacement •Flooring, skirting boards, door hanging & architraves •Blinds and curtain poles •Shelving and wall mounted TV’s •Bespoke built in wardrobes & media walls •Wooden furniture Repairs •Furniture and flat pack assembly I have the experience and knowledge to deliver most home projects. All jobs considered
Welcome to this site. The client is the most important visitor on our premises. They are not dependent on us, we are dependent on them. They are not an interruption to our work, they are the purpose of it.
Fitted some lintels for me. Michael was friendly, knowledgeable and easy to work with. Turned up when agreed and did an excellent job. Would highly recommend this Company.
Plumbing, groundwork and Underground water services At gcb utilities we strive to provide our customers with a high quality end to end service. we know it can be stressful dealing with leaks, repairs and improvements But with our expertise and professional staff we get the job done in good time and with as little disruption to you as possible. From the first contact our friendly staff have you covered. Whether your looking for a leak fixing,you have pressure issues, need pipe work installing or moving, new water supply or external leak repair With our wiaps, chas,constructionline and water safe approval, guaranteed work your in safe hands Give us a call or message for a free no obligation quote
Enthusiastic to sort-out our problem. Planned to meet and it happened bang on time. Came-up with the solution and had the job done within their own time estimate.. Problem solved on time and around the estimated budget. Well done!
Reactive Drains
Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning
Reactive Drains Birmingham are plumbers specialising in drain unblocking services in Birmingham, Sutton Coldfield and the surrounding area. Our engineers are fully trained and possess years of specialist experience in drain unblocking, jetting, drain surveys, and general plumbing work. We respond to a number of issues, including blocked drains, sinks and toilets, plumbing leakages, and more. Available at short notice, our aim is to resolve your plumbing issues as quickly as possible. In need of a plumber in the West Midlands? Then don't hesitate to contact Reactive Drains Birmingham!
Hi, We are a small local company with over 35 years of trading behind us in the building industry. Our website has loads of customer reviews, and you can speak with previous clients where we have carried out work, and also visit some of our completed projects. You are guaranteed an excellent service, reliable and trustworthy guidance, and will be totally satisfied with any work which we carry out for you. My aim is to please 100% every time, and you will not be disappointed. Our specialist work currently is garage conversions to habitable rooms. We can also offer remedial advice on condensation and damp issues. We love a challenge! Anything unusual is welcome. You can trust us to work in and around your home. I assure you of my personal attention at all times.
Dean and his team completed several jobs for me including solar outside lights, putting up blinds, TV on wall, garden mirror., taps dripping and sink leaking, and replacement taps. Great to get all these jobs done at the same. Friendly and professional service. Would recommend Jean Pierce, Hockley
North Wales Plumbing & Heating Ltd
Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning
'%3e%3cpath%20fill-rule='evenodd'%20clip-rule='evenodd'%20d='M12.5%2020.392a1%201%200%2001-.54.888l-5.274%202.73a1%201%200%2001-1.435-1.109l1.494-6.588a1%201%200%2000-.306-.964l-4.723-4.254c-.65-.586-.287-1.666.585-1.74l6.105-.514a1%201%200%2000.846-.629L12.5%200v20.392z'%20fill='%23F7DB34'%20/%3e%3c/g%3e%3c/svg%3e){kind=small}
Welcome to North Wales Plumbing & Heating Ltd, your premier destination for top-notch plumbing and heating services with over 20 years of dedicated experience. Our firm commitment to customer service and unwavering focus on delivering high-quality workmanship have made us a trusted name in the North Wales region. Specializing in all aspects of plumbing and heating, our skilled professionals bring a wealth of expertise to every project, ensuring your home or business receives the attention it deserves. At North Wales Plumbing & Heating Ltd, we go beyond the basics, offering a comprehensive range of skilled trades to address all your property maintenance needs. Whether it's installation, repair, or maintenance, our team is dedicated to providing efficient, reliable solutions. We take pride in our transparent communication, integrity, and commitment to client satisfaction, making us your go-to partner for plumbing, heating, and a variety of skilled trade services. Experience the assurance of quality and professionalism with North Wales Plumbing & Heating Ltd – where expertise meets excellence.
Plumber didn't get back in the end.
Ruhulla Test
We are a small development company moving into property maintenance to keep our trusted tradesman busy. We can provide trusted, qualified and experienced tradesman to carry out the work required and are contactable 24 hours a day.
We chose Buildway to do this important work at our house replacing a 42 year old timber balcony. Bill came over and gave us a very thorough assessment of the options and then produced a fair quote for the work. The dates were agreed and stuck to. The job threw up some complications that couldn’t have been foreseen and they were handled professionally by the team. We are very happy with the whole experience and wouldn’t hesitate to use them in the future
E SAINT GEORGE Ltd is a London & Essex based construction company. We specialise in all aspects of Home Improvements and strive to provide excellent work in order to achieve each individual clients vision. Our Customer Focused Service, ensures that we Communicate-Resolve-Produce superb tailor made projects. E SAINT GEORGE Ltd has an outstanding track record for delivering projects on Time and on Budget. All of our surveys are thoroughly analysed and concisely priced. Our pledge is to deliver all clients with Flat-Rate Costs for all of our contracted services. At E SAINT GEORGE Ltd, we value our highly-skilled team members as the core ingredient to completing every project successfully. HOME IMPROVEMENT SERVICES: - Kitchen Installations - Bathroom Renovations - Flooring (Laminate/Wood) - Tiling - Painting & Decorating - Structural Engineering & Design Services BUILDING WORK SERVICES: - Loft & Basement Conversions - Extensions (Single/Double) - Rendering / Plastering - Patio & Driveway Installations - Gardening & Landscaping - Gas Safe Services - Electrical Services (NICEIC) - Handy Man Services
Endrit and his team were wonderful to work with - friendly and professional and nothing was too much trouble for them, despite me changing aspects of the kitchen renovation and install during the process. They went above and beyond to ensure that everything was perfect and that I was happy with all aspects. My new kitchen looks amazing and I can't recommend Endrit and his team highly enough - I have already recommended E Saint George to friends and will be getting them back to install my bathroom.
'%20rx='20'%20/%3e%3cg%20fill='%23FFF'%3e%3cpath%20d='M29.376%2016.914c-.555%200-1.006.454-1.006%201.013v37.416c0%20.578.472%201.014%201.097%201.014h34.109a1.007%201.007%200%200%200%20.972-.83%201.012%201.012%200%200%200-.161-.76l-6.446-9.416c-.375-.548-.567-1.085-.586-1.642-.034-.977.516-1.952%201.402-2.483%204.8-2.878%205.808-7.575%205.808-11.009%200-7.335-5.925-13.303-13.207-13.303H29.376ZM63.594%2059.75H29.467c-2.505%200-4.467-1.936-4.467-4.408V17.927c0-2.43%201.963-4.408%204.376-4.408h21.982c9.14%200%2016.577%207.49%2016.577%2016.698%200%205.879-2.46%2010.687-6.944%2013.607l6.17%209.017c1.37%202.002.868%204.752-1.12%206.132a4.336%204.336%200%200%201-2.44.778h-.007Z'%20/%3e%3cpath%20d='M38.767%2027.797c0-.749.603-1.357%201.347-1.357h6.427c3.979%200%206.426%201.72%206.426%205.099v.123c0%203.132-2.325%205.098-6.365%205.098h-3.848l-3.985%203.998V36.76h-.002v-8.963'%20/%3e%3c/g%3e%3cpath%20fill='%23FFF'%20fill-rule='nonzero'%20d='M18.176%2069.2h2.156v3.878h3.976V69.2h2.156V79h-2.156v-3.934h-3.976V79h-2.156v-9.8Zm16.428%207.98c.43%200%20.826-.08%201.19-.238a2.72%202.72%200%200%200%20.931-.658c.257-.28.457-.604.602-.973a3.21%203.21%200%200%200%20.217-1.183V74.1c0-.42-.072-.817-.217-1.19-.145-.373-.35-.7-.616-.98a2.96%202.96%200%200%200-.945-.665%202.873%202.873%200%200%200-1.19-.245c-.439%200-.838.08-1.197.238-.36.159-.667.378-.924.658s-.457.604-.602.973a3.21%203.21%200%200%200-.217%201.183v.028c0%20.42.072.817.217%201.19a2.959%202.959%200%200%200%201.554%201.645c.36.163.758.245%201.197.245Zm-.028%201.988a5.343%205.343%200%200%201-2.086-.399%205.187%205.187%200%200%201-1.645-1.078%204.823%204.823%200%200%201-1.078-1.596%205.029%205.029%200%200%201-.385-1.967V74.1c0-.7.13-1.356.392-1.967a5.075%205.075%200%200%201%201.085-1.61%205.05%205.05%200%200%201%201.652-1.092%205.395%205.395%200%200%201%202.093-.399c.756%200%201.451.133%202.086.399a5.187%205.187%200%200%201%201.645%201.078c.462.453.821.985%201.078%201.596.257.611.385%201.267.385%201.967v.028c0%20.7-.13%201.356-.392%201.967a5.075%205.075%200%200%201-1.085%201.61%205.05%205.05%200%200%201-1.652%201.092%205.395%205.395%200%200%201-2.093.399Zm8.14-9.968h2.324l2.576%204.144%202.576-4.144h2.324V79h-2.142v-6.398l-2.758%204.186h-.056l-2.73-4.144V79h-2.114v-9.8Zm13.152%200h7.392v1.918h-5.25v1.988h4.62v1.918h-4.62v2.058h5.32V79h-7.462v-9.8Zm13.866%209.94a6.49%206.49%200%200%201-2.198-.385%205.817%205.817%200%200%201-1.96-1.183l1.274-1.526c.448.364.908.653%201.379.868.471.215.987.322%201.547.322.448%200%20.796-.082%201.043-.245a.771.771%200%200%200%20.371-.679v-.028a.85.85%200%200%200-.077-.371.778.778%200%200%200-.294-.301%203.079%203.079%200%200%200-.602-.28c-.257-.093-.59-.191-1.001-.294a12.201%2012.201%200%200%201-1.344-.406%203.787%203.787%200%200%201-1.022-.553%202.237%202.237%200%200%201-.651-.819c-.154-.327-.231-.733-.231-1.218v-.028c0-.448.084-.852.252-1.211.168-.36.404-.67.707-.931a3.183%203.183%200%200%201%201.085-.602c.42-.14.882-.21%201.386-.21a5.86%205.86%200%200%201%201.981.322%205.743%205.743%200%200%201%201.659.924l-1.12%201.624a7.1%207.1%200%200%200-1.288-.707%203.292%203.292%200%200%200-1.26-.259c-.42%200-.735.082-.945.245-.21.163-.315.366-.315.609v.028c0%20.159.03.296.091.413.06.117.17.222.329.315s.376.182.651.266c.275.084.623.182%201.043.294.495.13.936.278%201.323.441.387.163.714.36.98.588.266.229.467.497.602.805.135.308.203.677.203%201.106v.028c0%20.485-.089.917-.266%201.295a2.66%202.66%200%200%201-.742.952%203.353%203.353%200%200%201-1.134.588%204.924%204.924%200%200%201-1.456.203Z'%20/%3e%3c/g%3e%3c/svg%3e)
Get our app for homeowners
- Send messages and get notifications from tradespeople
- Add photos to get more accurate quotes
- View tradespeople's profiles