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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.
JSF Plumbing Services is a full-service plumbing company that offers a wide range of services to residential, commercial, and industrial clients. We have been in business for over 20 years and are proud to be one of the most trusted and reliable plumbing companies in the industry. Our team of highly trained and experienced plumbers are committed to providing excellent customer service and delivering high-quality workmanship. • Residential Plumbing Services: Our residential plumbing services include everything from fixing leaky faucets to installing new plumbing systems. We also offer emergency services for urgent plumbing issues. • Commercial Plumbing Services: We provide a wide range of commercial plumbing services, including installation, repair, and maintenance of plumbing systems for office buildings, retail stores, restaurants, and more. • Water Heater Services: We offer installation, repair, and maintenance services for all types of water heaters, including tankless water heaters, gas water heaters, and electric water heaters. • Drain Cleaning Services: Our drain cleaning services include unclogging blocked drains, fixing slow drains, drainage jetting and repairing damaged sewer lines. • Leak Detection Services: We use the latest technology to detect leaks in your plumbing system and provide efficient and cost-effective solutions. • Emergency Services: We offer 24/7 emergency plumbing services to address urgent plumbing issues. Why Choose Us: • Experienced and highly trained plumbers • Reliable and efficient service • Competitive pricing • High-quality workmanship • 24/7 emergency services • Excellent customer service • Free estimates
Construction and brickpaving company...we have been In business since 2005 with over 100 happy customers to date no job too small.... James eves JLE paving ????
James is a fantastic tradesman: he is highly skilled and knowledgeable. James is a great communicator and he talked me through all the options. What a hard working and friendly person. I highly recommend James
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Blocked Drains If you have a blocked drain, our expert technicians have the knowledge to help you. Our vans are all fully equipped with all the tools we could need to unblock your drain including high pressure jets. In the rare occasion when lime-scale has built up to the point the drain is blocked and rodding does not work, the use of high power water jets, dislodge build-ups so that the drain can flow smoothly again. This saves the need for expensive excavations allowing you to have peace of mind. Drain jetting is also useful for non-emergency servicing of your drains. Asap Drainage are able to use drain jetting to service the drains on properties in order to find any problems. We believe that regular checks on your drains are even as important as servicing your car. Your drains are always being used for various appliances such as sanitary fittings or washing machines. Over time they could block itself with deposits or lime-scale which could be costly in the future. It’s prudent to have your drains regularly cleaned and inspected. Our service can help maintain your system effectively to save you money down the line.
Great efficient job, 24h after I advertised on RP Homes !
1st Choice Landscaping and Groundwork
Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning
Family run business, with thirty years experience in the industry. We are a friendly and reliable service.
A good job, expertly carried out, but not quite up to our expectations with clearing the debris. It took us two days to get the garden back to normal. The second phase of the order is yet to be done and I’m sure that they will satisfy our requirements.
Brad Tyler plumbing & drain services
Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning
Carry out clearance of drains , cctv surveys , patch repairs , no dig technology , all leaks on cold and hot water supply's new installs showers , baths , taps , toilets , siphons , and inlet valves , ball cocks , free quotes
Only reason it isn't a 5star is because it took a while to get it booked in however Brad is incredibly professional courteous and did a grate job went above and beyond to try and help us will use again in the future without a doubt.
GLG Contractors Building And Plastering
Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning
I am an experienced builder. i have built my business up through a good reputation. I have 21 years of experience within the building trade with qualifications within all aspects of plastering and rendering. I have a small team of skilled tradesmen, including roofers, carpenters, and plumbers, which enables us to take on a wide variety of jobs and complete them to a high standard.
Excellent work. They really go the extra mile to make sure the work is done right. Very happy with what they have done for us. I've already recommended them to people and I will 100% use them again.
TTL Draincare is a family owned business established in 2020. With over 25 years experience across our team we cover all aspects of drain repair and maintenance. From blockages to excavations, surveys to septic tanks we cover it all. For any further information please do not hesitate to give us a call.
Plumbing Company Southwest UK A COMPANY Covers Exsternal&Internal plumbing work, From Lead replacements mains cold water service to Drainge work Internal plumbing, demestic & Heating , pipeworks, Pipefitting/Plumbing industry for 35years experance NVQ 3 certs ,
Andrew Did outstanding work. Andrew assessed the situation explained what needed to be done then did it. Andrew is a highly experience plumber who enjoys doing excelent work
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
We have been trading for 23 years in plumbing. We offer all plumbing needs. We also have an emergency call out.
Plum Building Services Ltd is a building company based in London. We work for both landlords and private home owners on new builds, extensions, refurbishments, repair and maintenance. No job is too big or too small. Quality is our guarantee.
Darren Kelleher plumbing &maintenance
Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning
We are a small company based in cardiff with twenty years in the industry ,we cover any thing from a small leak to full installations of bathrooms and kitchens,we also incude tiling,plastering ,carpentry etc in our skill set.
Darren did a great job on the bathroom. Would recommend for anyone considering hiring him
drainage specialist with 25yrs experience. all works carried out from unblocks,high pressure water jetting,cctv,patching,lining and excavations. fair prices,we treat every job as it is our own home all work guaranteed 24/7 availability
McGinleys Services has over 25 years of experience in commercial and residential Landscape and building maintenance within the Berkshire area. We can help you maintain your property or help you create your dream landscaped garden.
I am a independent Plumbing and heating Engineer, I have been in the field for around 8 years. I take my work seriously and take pride in my work, and want to be of best service to each customer I meet. thanks wayne
Excellent service!
Specialist in all aspects of Groundworks/civils. Well established business with over 50 years combined experience with groundworks, civils and building. We own and operate our own machines and equipment. All operators are NPORS/CPCS ticketed and trained to high standards, this enables us to be properly insured and have correct health and safety in place.
Great to deal with, very knowledgeable and did a cracking job. Highly recommended - will use again for sure if I need anything else doing.
We are a family run business specializing in various types of gardening/landscaping/tree/property maintenance services/roofing, lawn care, garden designing, pressure washing, patios, driveways and much more. Please contact us for more in depth information and advice or for a no obligation quotation.
We used Kingz for clearance of a very overgrown garden and new fencing. They did exactly what they said they would do in their quote. They worked hard, left the garden tidy, and took away all the waste. They were very pleasant and Emma, in particular, gave good advice regarding ongoing after care of the garden. We were very happy with the results and would definitely recommend this family team!
Trading as intrendbuilders and tesscon co uk search us on google We are a friendly, hard working & affordable company who specialise in All forms of roofing and general building, maintenance, fencing and landscaping, waste removal, end of tenancy property clearances, wooden & laminate flooring and more in all areas of Birmingham & surrounding areas.
Richard and his team did a great job of replacing our garden gazebo roof. Pete and the lads who worked at the property were professional and courteous throughout and I’d have no hesitation in recommending them.
DUE TO THE COVID-19 VIRUS WE NO LONGER DO INTERNAL PLUMBING WORKS EXEPT FOR BLOCKED TOILETS & WASTE PIPEWORK KEEPING THINGS FLOWING" in & around Barton upon Humber, Scunthorpe, Grimsby & Hull areas 24hr Emergency Service : NO CALL-OUT FEE : Competitive Rates & Discounts Available : We are a local independent family run business based in Barton upon Humber. Having 20yrs experience in the trade we pride ourselves on giving a speedy, high class service. We provide "Free Estimates" & offer "Fixed Rates" that is both fair & competitive so you always know what you are paying in advance with no hidden extras. Our Technical Engineer will always keep you informed throughout the process. Selling or Buying your house ? ... then take advantage of our "Home Buyers / Sellers CCTV Drainage Report" completed by our fully qualified "N.A.D.C" Certified Drainage Surveyor. Services Available are : • Drainage Emergencies & Pipe Cleaning • Domestic & Commercial • High Pressure Water Jetting • Electro-Mechanical Drainage cleaning • Drainage Repairs & Installations • NADC Certified CCTV Drain Inspections & Surveys • Ingressed Root Cutting • "No-Dig" CIPR Patchlining & CIPP Re-lining • Sonar Drain Tracing • Water Leak Detection • Blocked drains • Blocked toilets • Blocked basins & baths • Blocked sinks • Blocked gully's • Blocked soakaways • Rodent investigation & prevention
Very good
Hi there, we aim to look after our customers to make sure there happy with price & job to completion. If any problems occur on our side we will sort out free of charge. Give us a try and get a professional service from start to finish.
I thought the job had been completed satisfactorily so I paid for the work in full. It then became apparent that problems existed. Scot did not dispute the issues and agreed to return to resolve them. There then followed 9 separate dates when we agreed for the work to be done. Scot failed to turn up for any of the dates. A variety of excuses were given for some, others he just didn't arrive. Despite giving 7 working days to return the money paid this has also been ignored. Be warned!
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