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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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. Ask the current owners how much their service costs, so you can work out how much it’ll cost you annually.
  4. 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.
  5. Ask for a plan of the drainage system.
  6. 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. 
  7. 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 IrelandScotland 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.

Flow 3 Drainage Services avatar

Flow 3 Drainage Services

Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning

Flow3 Drainage Services is an established emergency drainage repair and unblock service 24 hours a day 365 days a year. Our engineers have over 20 years drainage experience so no matter what the problem, we can fix it. From a blocked sink to a new drainage installation our engineers will ensure you get a first-class service at an affordable cost. Please find a list of our services below: - 24 Hour internal and external drainage unblocking with mechanical machines and high-pressure water jetting. We also include a look see CCTV to investigate the cause of the blockage within the cost. - A1 class CCTV surveys and Wincan reports with recommendations and costings. Fast turnaround service can also be provided for urgent repairs, insurance repairs and house purchase surveys. - Excavation repairs to defective sections of drainage systems or full installations of new drainage including Thames Water build over agreements to their requested spec. - Polyester and local lining works at competitive prices to repair defective sections of drainage without the need to disrupt surfaces like new patios or extensions. - Reconfiguration of drainage systems and new installations for home modifications such as new bathrooms / kitchens. - Descale / degrease and mechanical root cutting with high pressure water jetting and specialist ENZ chain flail and spinning jet nozzles. This can also be used to remove concrete or jointing compound restricting pipes. - Defective interceptor removal and replacement with new pipework. We also install vermin blockers to prevent infestation. - Replacement of defective manhole covers and frames. Up rating of manhole covers if required. - Site visit free of charge to ensure we can provide a comprehensive quotation for the works required. If you have a drainage problem our engineers are here to help whatever the circumstances. We will get you up and running in no time..

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Reviewed by Sid on 23/7/2024

Alan completed a trenchless lining fix and did a great job, he explained what was going to be done and did it. Highly recommended. Thanks Alan.

North Wales Plumbing & Heating Ltd avatar

North Wales Plumbing & Heating Ltd

Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning

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.

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Reviewed by Angie on 31/1/2019

Plumber didn't get back in the end.

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Best Choice Contractor Ltd

Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning

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Reviewed by Pranav on 7/11/2019

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.

LT CONSTRUCTION & LANDSCAPE LTD avatar

LT CONSTRUCTION & LANDSCAPE LTD

Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning

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 ????????

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Reviewed by April on 1/4/2025

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...

Plumbtech 24 Hours Ltd avatar

Plumbtech 24 Hours Ltd

Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning

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

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Reviewed by Paul on 10/11/2023

Arrived on time, did a very professional job for a good price, and we are very pleased with the result. We would thoroughly recommend.

Family run business since 1995. My son and I pride ourselves in high standards. Design - Build - Maintain. Sustainable builds including extensions and loft conversions. Renewable heating and hot water installations. Full bathroom and kitchen renovations.

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Reviewed by Russell on 19/12/2022

Very pleased with Francisco got our shower working and moved the radiator for us. Good communications arrived on time and also helped us out for another call. Thanks

E SAINT GEORGE LTD avatar

E SAINT GEORGE LTD

Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning

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

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Reviewed by neil on 26/7/2024

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.

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ALUGLASS COMMERCIAL

Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning

Bathroom renovation and installation. Tiling. Woodwork. Plumbing. Brickwork. Tiling.

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Reviewed by Eleanor on 28/5/2025

Absolutely thrilled with our new shower! Amir was fantastic—professional, friendly, and nothing was ever too much trouble. We had a radiator changed, another one removed, a boil tap installed, and our bath taken out and replaced with a sleek new shower. Amir and his team were brilliant throughout, keeping everything tidy and treating our home with great care.

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Apex Building and Joinery

Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning

Small family run building company with over 40 years experience over 2 generations as a premium general building company. All types of building work carried out to the highest standard. A one stop shop for all your building needs right from the design and planning stage to completion. Joinery, roofing specialising in flat roofs Building and Plastering A wealth of experience in remodelling and renovations, extensions and sunrooms. Landscaping and paving. All areas covered. Fully insured, trained and certified tradesmen

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Reviewed by Danny on 5/2/2025

The advertised job I have could not get much better because it has been first class.

APEX PLUMBING AND PROPERTY SOLUTIONS LTD avatar

APEX PLUMBING AND PROPERTY SOLUTIONS LTD

Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning

Apex is a maintenance service company, specialising in Plumbing, Heating and General Building. Our experienced team offer a host of skills, covering many different sectors to allow us to be your one-stop shop. So whether you're a domestic customer with a plumbing and heating issue, or, a domestic client requiring general property solutions, we can tailor your needs under one roof. Our team is fully insured and with over 30 years of experience, we're the go-to company for plumbing and heating, with a quick-to-action call-out priority covering Oxfordshire, Bucks and Berkshire.

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Reviewed by Sri on 4/1/2024

Fantastic job. Clear communication and completed the work within time. Will recommend whole heartedly.

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R & B Refurbishment LTD

Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning

R&B refurbishment ltd For a decade, a Proficiency building company based in London has led all aspects of construction, luxury design and build. Whether you're looking to expand or refine your home with a loft conversion, rear or side extension, basement excavation, cellar conversion or a top to bottom refurbishment, our ethos is quality-first craftsmanship for the very best in residential design and build in London. When it comes to the quality and care that we put into every project, we think of ourselves as one of the leading building companies in London. This means that, as the right builder, we have the team, the expertise and the commitment to a high quality that sets us apart. Fully insured with Public and Employers Liability, Professional Indemnity, Contractors All Risk and high-risk basement works. We offer a 15-year guarantee on all of our structural building work. Proficiency only uses the highest quality building materials ensuring everything is built to standard and will last.

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Reviewed by Andrew on 19/5/2025

Fired him for appalling work, no-shows and delays; see his other bad reviews. He's a middle man; does not do any work; got others to do it like a plumber, then a tiler the next day; slow work made worse when someone messed up or did not show up. Ali only shows to deliver materials or check work. Quick to reply when wanting the job. Slow/no response once job starts thinking you wont cancel. Materials I paid not returned; take every receipt and check you keep/use every item as he will even for wipes/tape

RMR BUILDING & RENOVATION LTD avatar

RMR BUILDING & RENOVATION LTD

Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning

Our building services company RMR Building & Renovation Ltd has over 15 years’ experience in the industry. We have been helping customers in London/Essex and the surrounding 10-mile radius by providing professional, trustworthy building services. We know it can be hard to find a builder that you can rely on. RMR Building & Renovation Ltd has a wealth of experience and is known as one of the best builders in Essex. We pride ourselves on providing a professional, caring and high-quality service and always meet our customers’ needs. Each contractor that works for RMR Building & Renovation Ltd is fully qualified and insured and delivers on timekeeping, quality of work and value. We offer a full range of building services, from major rebuilds to smaller jobs such as masonry repairs, including: New Builds Alterations, Extensions & Conversions Brickwork Concrete Plastering & Screeding Tiling Painting & Decorating Kitchens & Bathrooms Roofing Services Re-pointing Septic Tanks Excavation Services Soakaways Foundations External Works Drainage If you are trying to find a builder near you, why not give us a call? Our friendly, professional team will be happy to talk through your needs and give you a free, no-obligation quote.

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Reviewed by Geethumol on 31/7/2024

Professional, quality work,worth money

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IMPRESS EUROPE LTD

Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning

Impress Europe Ltd is a full service construction company offering comprehensive solutions for residential, commercial and industrial projects. From design and planning to building and finishing, we handle everything - including new builds, extensions, loft conversions, renovations, landscaping and custom projects. Our team of skilled professionals are committed to delivering quality, safety and excellence in every job. We pride ourselves on reliability, clear communication and building long lasting relationships with our clients. Choose Impress Europe for all your construction needs - one company, every solution.

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Kernow Plant Hire & Skips & Groundworks

Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning

We offer a range of services from groundworks, tarmacking and concreting, drainage, we also have our own mini Digger and dumper aswell as we hire 2,4,6 & 8 yard skips

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Reviewed by Clare on 22/6/2022

Very professional and was able to start sooner than expected would definitely hire them again

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Pocock Developments

Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning

Pocock developments has been trading in and around Berkshire and the home counties for some 30 years with great references. its a family run business with myself and my wife Kerry. We Produce fixed price quotations. we are Elecsa certified.

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Reviewed by Susanne on 25/3/2025

Spencer at Pocock Developments project managed our work very well. From the fully detailed quote, to advising on any pricing changes and providing some extra plastering work - got to say everything was managed smoothly and transparently, and the one hiccup over the roof tiles was put right quickly. Plus we appreciated Myron and Ivan's eye for detail and managing their work around the weather. Our two dormers look great, so thanks Pocock Development and we'd definitely use them again ????

Dorel Marian Olteanu avatar

Dorel Marian Olteanu

Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning

Install, repair, and maintain pipes, valves, fittings, drainage systems, and fixtures .Collaborate with general contractors, electricians, and other construction professionals.Follow building plans and blueprints.Respond to, diagnose, and resolve plumbing emergencies.Perform routine inspections of plumbing and drainage systems.

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Reviewed by Cathie on 16/1/2025
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Rated Peoples - EM

Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning

Here is a description about my company testing 2 updating just testing

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Reviewed by Rated on 29/10/2024

Test without the bad word

3B Joiner avatar

3B Joiner

Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning

Over 20 years of experience in commercial and domestic construction projects.

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Reviewed by Ann on 14/3/2025

Excellent work. Friendly and meticulous. We will use Artur again if we need him. It was a big job but very well executed. We had a complete new kitchen installed including new flooring.

JMG Building and Landscaping avatar

JMG Building and Landscaping

Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning

We have over 20 years of experience in ground work and landscape gardening and building services and our aim is to put our 20 year experience into your home so you can have a good experience using our service

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Reviewed by Jacqueline on 20/5/2025

Thanks James for completing an excellent job, very pleased with the work carried out. The team were excellent, friendly but professional. James knew exactly the issues and gave great advice and guidance. The team worked none stop throughout the day and the outcome is exactly what I wanted. I would definately recommend J M G Building Services to anyone and will be using them again in the future.

Westridge Builders avatar

Westridge Builders

Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning

30 years plus of experience, all general work carried out. Clean and tidy worker always reliable.

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Reviewed by Zamin on 27/1/2025

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