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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.
Hi it's Paul Robinson, I am a solo trader in the plumbing & heating industry with over 20 years experience. When it comes to gas, plumbing & heating. No job is too big or small! I cover everything, including,: - Bathroom installs - Blocked toilets, sinks & baths - Blocked drains - Shower pumps - Heating pumps - Tap repairs - New taps - Thermostatic showers/Electric showers - All plumbing repairs including tracing leaks where ever they come from - Radiators/lock shields & Thermostatic radiator valves - 2/3 Motorised port valves - Megaflo systems installs - Combi-boilers installs - New gas runs install - Power flushing - Boiler break downs - Gas certificates
Great work. Very responsive and completed work same day. A change of a kitchen tap was not as straightforward as should have been but was completed perfectly. Will definitely call again on any other plumbing jobs without hesitation.
Flexflow is a leading plumbing and drainage company with 9 years of experience in the industry. We specialise in draina and plumbing installation, repair, CCTV surveys, pump station installation and maintenance work. With our expertise and commitment to excellence, we provide reliable solutions for all your plumbing and drainage needs. Whether it's a simple repair or a complex installation, our skilled team is dedicated to delivering top-quality service. Trust Flexflow for efficient and effective solutions to keep your systems flowing smoothly. Contact us today for a hassle free experience!
Great job.
Our team consists of Painters and Decorators who takes great pride in the work we do. Our aim is to ensure a 100% customer satisfaction. We believe in quality of work and will always aim to deliver the best quotes and quality of craftsmanship possible. We are reliable, and will always aim to charge the given price at quotation. I accommodate services for both domestic and commercial clients. We offer quality advice and services. Our services include: Exterior Painting, Painting and Decorating, Wallpapering, Wooden Windows stripped and painted, Free No Obligation Quotes Guarantee of Work Carried Out Please contact us with any queries or questions.
Indrit from Reni did an excellent interior painting/decorating job for me. If you want a friendly, solid and reliable professional then he's your man. Obviously, I'm very happy with his work!
I am an experienced builder of 35 years only taking on smaller projects mainly carpentry but other aspects of building may be considered.
Since last request to rate dag ltd. We have learnt that due to an e mail hicup our quote was lost.When the problem was realised I have been more than satisfied with their prompt correspondence
West Country Drainage Services Limited
Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning
The specialists in Drains and Water We are award winning and have just been crowned National drainage contractor of the year in the National drainage awards in London 2025. We carry out all aspects of drainage including septic tank and sewage treatment plant installations. WCDS are industry leaders in sewage treatment plant, septic tank and drainage works and are renowned for our honest advice. We have to date saved our clients over 175k from incorrect advice from others. Our mission statement: putting trust back into the drainage industry is why we are the best choice. We carry out the following services: Drain unblocks CCTV Drainage repairs Lining works Septic tank installations Sewage treatment plant installations Water leak detection Water repairs Moling Home buyer survey Compliance report With our unique friendly staff and over 20 years experience we will always offer the very best to our customers.
KJR Heating are a ltd company specialising in central heating systems, unvented hot water systems, boiler breakdowns and boiler changes. We also do under floor heating. We have over 25 years experiance in this industry and are gas safe registered. and provide a hight standerd of work.
Sadly I have been let down twice in two consecutive weeks. Was initially told he would attend last Saturday but called to say he would have to reschedule, which was fine. We rescheduled for today, I messaged him yesterday to see what time he was coming. I didn't get a response. Not good at all. My review DOES NOT reflect the skills and qualifications Craig has as I can't comment on this because he never turned up. Frustrating.
Mid Suffolk Construction and Maintenance
Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning
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General Building and maintenance New builds Exstensions Restoration Renovation
We had them in to install insulation in our upstairs floor, replace the sub floor, replace some lights, install a loft hatch, and board out our loft. On top of this they discovered a problem in our roof that they fixed. We were incredibly impressed by all of the staff that attended on site. They were friendly, polite at all times, and worked really hard, to a high standard. I couldn't recommend James and his team more, and we've already started talking to them about a further project.
If you require cost effective, reliable heating and plumbing engineers then look no further. Operating throughout Melksham,Chippenham, Trowbridge, Corsham, Bath and surrounding areas we cater to all domestic and business client’s plumbing needs.
Worked hard all day . No time wasted (didn't disappear for ages )just got on with the job . Would recommend.
On time, quoted agood price and repaired fault.
i have been a self employed builder since 1997 i have one employed labourer but i am able to get all trades as i do extentions, my main work is roofing but am also a good general builder, i am based in stockport but have worked all around greater manchester
Plumbserve are a family run business with over 30 years experience. We offer a comprehensive service from design-supply & Installation for all trades. we pride ourself on Quality and reliability, a company you can trust to get the job done to the best standard at a cost that wont break the bank. Our Tradesmen are fully qualified, directly employed by us Our services include but are not restricted to: > Bathrooms and wet rooms > Plumbing and drainage > Kitchens and extensions > Boilers and heating > 24 hour Emergency call out service > All trade maintenance & Repair We cover all of Edinburgh, the Lothians and west Lothian Call us today to obtain your FREE no obligation quotation
Plumbserve did a brilliant job installing a new bathroom at my house. Top quality workmanship, thorough, professional service at a very competitive price. Would not hesitate to use them again.
Friendly local family run business with over 20 years experience, specialising in exterior in home improvements to the highest standards. Including .... Roofing and Roof Repairs, Paving/Patios, Decking, Landscaping, Walls, and Fencing,
I am Alexandru Popescu, Director of the company, with over a decade of hands-on experience in the construction industry. I began my career in Italy at the age of 18, where I gained solid experience in residential construction and refurbishment works. In 2014, I relocated to the United Kingdom, continuing my professional activity in the same field and working in accordance with UK building standards and regulations. My experience covers a wide range of residential building services, with particular expertise in: Loft conversions House extensions Painting and decorating Kitchen fitting I am committed to delivering high-quality workmanship, well-organised projects, and clear communication throughout every stage of the build. Attention to detail, reliability, and respect for clients� homes are fundamental to the way I work. Each project is approached with careful planning and a practical mindset, ensuring efficient execution and results that meet both technical requirements and client expectations.
The guys did a perfect job and were very polite and respectful at all times.
Hi there, I am J Smith Landscapes offering sevices form a wide range all my work is guarenteed and done to a very high standard. I am looking forward to hear off you.
My name is Josh, proprietor of JJ Home Improvements JJ has bean tradeing for over 20 years with a team of 6 people with many years experience. We also have a demolition team of 4 people who are fully trained in this sector. We pride ourselves on giving our customers 100% and offer competitive quotes. We also have a waist carriage licence and many machines tickets
Hello everyone, I am a Civil Engineer with experience working with different companies in both France and the UK. I run my own company, COMFOROOMS LTD, where I specialise in building and groundwork. I have extensive experience in the construction industry. I am a serious and dedicated professional who takes pride in my work. I always respect my customers and do my best to ensure they are fully satisfied with every project. I am committed to delivering high-quality workmanship, always keeping the work clean and well organised. I also provide a guarantee on all jobs I undertake, so you can have full confidence in my service. I look forward to hearing from you. Thank you, H. Turki Director
Hass did a brilliant job from first meeting him to provide a quote to the end of the job. I really appreciated his honesty right at the start of the project with what was required to fix it and I trusted him completely. I was very pleased with the results of the bathroom and will definitely use him again in the future.
AMG Construction & Maintenance. Home - Garden - Pools - Spa
Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning
AMG Construction & Maintenance is the Home~Garden~Pool~spa construction and maintenance specialist . We have 20 years experience working in the pools and spa industry both in the UK and Australia and 10 years combined roofing and property maintenance. In that time we have also carried out numerous landscaping and garden & home maintenance projects including, driveway construction, facia/sofit boards, guttering ,earthmoving and drainage. We pride ourselves on doing a good job and we stand by our motto of do the job right first time . AMG C & M can and will do what ever you need.. one call to us and we do it all !!
Lee and Chris of AMG were friendly and knowledgeable. They carried out repairs to our porch and roof thoroughly and efficiently. Thank you.
Hi I’m Shaun from cbo property services. I have over 20 years experience in the building trade. There is no job to small for the cbo team.
CBO Property Services were great. They were punctual, polite and did a very good job repairing my garden wall and they cleaned everything up after they had finished. I would certainly recommend them!
NM PLANT AND SCAFFOLDING LTD
Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning
We offer Plant hire Excavations Foundation work Demolition Scaffolding We are based in kinsley we have over 10years experience
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