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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.
Valentin Exterior Washing & Painting
Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning
Building roof cleaning Building roof painting Exterior walls washing and painting Driveway cleaning Gutter cleaning Drainage jetting Other pressure washing or softwashing services upon request Own scaffold tower access
Capewell Construction & Developments LTD
Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning
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Established in 2002 as a sole trader, I have developed a number of properties ranging from barn conversions to new build apartments. I have also project managed a number of bespoke new builds and conversions for high profile clients. All trades available!
Fantastic service from start to finish. Would certainly recommend. Has every trade available and the job went smooth.
CG Building LTD , it is a small company , established back in 2016. We carry work all around UK , but now we are based in Somerset and we cover all surrounding areas. •We take small & big jobs ! •We do all aspects building •We offer a friendly and reliable service, working closely with the client to make sure they have a clear understanding of the works that are being carried out throughout the process. -Renovations- - Kitchen and bathroom insulations- Plastering. - Painting and decorating. - Carpentry-
Very professional. I would definitely recommend this trades person. Good pricing and great work. I am keeping his contract for work in the future.
Hampshire based friendly plumber, competitive prices and always here to help! Come check out my website for further information on Aquaflux services
ES Building Solutions Ltd
Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning
ES Building Solution (ESBS ) was conceptualised when Eddy Jon founding director of ESBS were disappointed by service provided by local construction companies was not at level they expected. They got to provide a better service to the local community and this has since expanded into providing higher level services to the commercial and residential sectors in the UK We are fully insure company.
ETD PICIU LTD
Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning
Groundwork businesses with many years of experience. Site Manager certificate, CPCS plant operators, first aid,and many more Qualifications.
Flickstar Plumbing
Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning
At Flickz Star Plumbing we are dedicated to providing top-notch plumbing services with a focus on reliability, quality workmanship, and customer satisfaction. With years of experience in the industry, our team of certified plumbers is equipped to handle everything from routine maintenance and repairs to complex installations. We pride ourselves on our attention to detail, transparent pricing, and commitment to completing every job to the highest standards. Whether it’s a leaky faucet, a bathroom renovation, or an emergency plumbing issue, you can count on us to deliver prompt and professional service every time. Feel free to replace "[Your Company Name]" with your actual business name and make any additional tweaks to suit your style.
KTC DRAINAGE
Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning
DeBee Joiners
Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning
We are joiners, bespoke, builders and roofers we also have had specialist training in conservatory installations and windows and doors and gutters in association casio Roofs and building, with over 30 years experience your in safe hands.
Newport Building & Home Improvements
Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning
We are a family run business with experience in all aspects of Building, roofing & home improvements. working around Newport and the surrounding area's. We provide a fast and professional service at competitive rates. No job too small, call now for a free quotation, partner to ( shield roofing specialists south wales)
Responded very quickly to my request. Very tidy work and very reasonable price
Mid Suffolk Construction and Maintenance
Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning
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.
Warmserve Services Ltd is a local company offering a wide range of heating, plumbing and electrical services that was founded in 2011. We are a team of 24 heating engineers/plumbers and 12 electricians, serving customers in all SA & CF postcodes. We are small enough to offer a personal service but large enough to carry out work quickly and efficiently. We operate a 24 hour service for emergencies for all customers domestic and commercial. The company is run from our office in Llansamlet, Swansea where we have a small admin team of 8 that deal with all enquiries and manage all jobs. Our dedication to customer satisfaction and quality work has seen the business grow from one man in a van to a recognised and respected heating and electrical company in South Wales which covers over 70% of heating home emergency claims. Warmserve covers all plumbing and mechanical services for domestic & commercial, Gas, LPG, Oil, Solid Fuel, Renewables, Air Conditioning, Electrical, Drainage, Bathroom Installations and plumbing maintenance. Warmserve are able to accept credit & debit cards and also finance. Warmserve is registered with accreditation’s: Gas Safe Register OFTEC NICEIC HETAS REFCOM F-Gas TrustMark Safe Contractor Which? approved
Very quick response to my initial post although identifying the probable source of the leak took some time. After I accepted their quotation for remediation there was quite a wait for the bathroom team to become available. When work started the team were knowledgeable, explaining the various issues that they encountered and offering sensible solutions. The work was finished in 2 days and everything was left clean and tidy. I thoroughly recommend this company.
Hi welcome to my company, I've been in the building trade for 15 years with vast experience in the building and tree surgery/landscaping industry, all my work is always carried out to the highest of standards to over exceed customer expectations
Bellhurst Construction gave me a very detailed quote and were able to start the job promptly. Darrel worked with me on adjusting he quote in order to prioritise the things that needed the most attention. We were held up a few days by the weather initially, but once things were underway I was very happy with how things progressed. The team were polite and worked hard through some of the hottest days of the year! The end result is wonderful and really makes the most of the garden.
17+ years doing plumbing and electrics. City & Guilds • Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Plumbing and Heating: Suitable if you have some relevant knowledge and skills, focusing on domestic hot and cold water systems, central heating systems, sanitation, and gas safety. • Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Installing and Maintaining Domestic Heating Systems: Covers safe working practices, installation and maintenance of hot water systems, drainage systems, and domestic heating systems. • Level 3 NVQ Diplomas: Aimed at those with considerable experience, offering pathways in domestic plumbing and heating, including gas, oil firing, and environmental technologies like solar thermal hot water systems . I am also accredited by these associations. • Chartered Institute of Plumbing & Heating Engineering (CIPHE): CIPHE is a professional body for the UK plumbing and heating industry, aiming to ensure high standards of practice and professionalism. It offers various resources and training opportunities to its members . • Engineering Council: The Engineering Council is the UK regulatory body for the engineering profession, including gas engineering. It oversees the Engineering Accreditation Board (EAB), which accredits academic programs for Chartered Engineer and Incorporated Engineer status. This accreditation process assures the competence, ethics, and professionalism of engineers in the UK and abroad . • APHC Certification Ltd.: Accredited by the United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS), APHC operates several government-authorized plumbing and heating certification schemes. These include the Competent Persons Scheme, which allows businesses to self-certify their compliance with building regulations, and the Microgeneration Certification Scheme, certifying the installation of renewable technologies . These bodies play crucial roles in maintaining high standards within the plumbing and gas engineering sectors, offering pathways for professionals to demonstrate their competence and professionalism. For further details, you may visit the respective websites of CIPHE, the Engineering Council, and APHC.
We are a building company that have been in operation for over 25 years We are mostly architect or customer recommendations based We can organise a local architect to produce your plans or price plans you already have We are a little old school where we will give you a competitive estimate and then show you the works we are doing also a job we have finished recently
Excellent guys, no fuss and got the job done quick and to an excellent level of quality! Highly recommend!
D.A.V. BUILD LTD
Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning
Stanley's Roofing & Property Maintenance
Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning
Stanley's Roofing & Property Maintenance offer a wide range of services including but not limited to: All aspects of roofing, fencing, drainage, all aspects of guttering, chimney repair, chimney capping, chimney replacement, cladding, repointing, rebedding, patios, pressure washing and moss removal we pride ourselves on good customer service and workmanship call us for a free no obligation quote.
Building and maintenance company specialising in carpentry and plastering.
Had Adam down for a chimney breast removal and they’re talented, friendly guys with fair prices. Can’t ask for much more. The plastering was very smooth!
Am a handyman who is specialised in different trade like plumbing roof works both new and repairs,kitchen specialists, bathroom fittings, painting and decorating, gardening, brickwork, plastering, drainage, guttering, And I have trading for 2o years in construction industry. I treat my costumers with care and respect.
Great job and service. Thank you
Clear Flo Drainage
Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning
Over 10 years experience in the trade Our Key Services: - 24/7 Drainage Unblocking: Prompt assistance for urgent drainage issues. - CCTV Drainage Surveys: In-depth inspections with detailed reports. - Line Patching: Modern repairs that eliminate the need for excavation. - High-Pressure Water Jetting: Effective cleaning solutions for clogged systems. - Root Cutting: Removal of intrusive roots affecting your drainage. - Civil Work: A broad spectrum of civil engineering services.
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