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.
'%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}
A hands-on Senior Manager with over fourty years’ track record of building conversions, renovations and ground-up builds. Highly analytical in examining building projects; a fastidious note and record taker who enjoys problem solving at a very practical level. Started as a welding Engineer and quickly progressed into a variety of Managerial roles. Able to inspect all aspects of building work in construction processes whilst reducing build time and expenses. Ability to assess and quickly advise on relative legislations and cost-cutting issues, with safety always in mind. Extensive people experience on both sides and having the ability to mentor and explaining legal aspects and complex issues to all levels of the team. • On- and off-site Experience • New Buildings, Alterations, Extensions • Carpentry • Plastering • Tiling • Boilers, Plumbing, Gas Safety and Electrical Experience
That’s not true and our rating remains the same as unsatisfactory and disappointed I’m afraid.
ETS PROPERTY SOLUTIONS Hassle free haggle free service Services we offer - Electrical - Plumbing - General maintenance - Gardening - Flooring Feel free to contact us now for a free no obligation quote Thanks - ETS Team
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.
Great work from Carl and his brother. They communicated with me well before arriving, were friendly and explained the work needed and cost before starting. Their work was of a high standard and I would happily recommend them.
Andrey's Roofing and Building Services
Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning
We are a family run company which specializes in flat roofing, all chimney repairs Loose bricks, re-pointing work, roof repairs, lead work, leaking roofs, pitched roof's Replacing Chimney Caps Repairing flat roofs etc We have experience on private and commercial contracts, Learning avast experience in the roofing trade there are very few problems we haven't come across before and would be happy to give you a free, no obligation quote for fixing any problems big or small. We are fully insured for your peace of mind. We pride ourselves on our reputation. Most jobs we take before and after photos so you can see exactly what we are doing We pride ourselves on customer satisfaction For a free no obligation quotation and advice please feel free to call. Kind regards,Andrey We can provide the following services: Flat roof repairs and replacement GRP fibreglass roofing Firestone rubber roofing Guttering cleaned, repaired or replaced Ridges repointed Fascia’s, soffits & guttering Exterior painting All roof repairs Pitched roofing Roof leaks Repointing New roofs Moss removal All Chimney repairs Replacing broken tiles slates etc We are also skilled in services such as: Shed roofs re-felting guttering cleaning service. High pressure cleaning roofs walls, etc. All exterior maintenance Bricklaying Wall repairs Cleaning facias and soffits Andrey ,free quotation
Absolutely brilliant! Great job with excellent trades and prompt time-keeping. Sensible suggestions when issues were uncovered and well resolved. Tidy and professional. Very hard working. Would definitely recommend.
SKG CONSTRUCTION LTD is a family run company with over 10 years of experience in creating high quality loft conversion, Extensions, complete home renovations. We offer a full package from conception through to completion. Our services range from providing you with your architectural drawings, involving buildings regulations and obtaining the necessary planning permissions through to allocating you a construction team and issuing a full guarantee for the completed project. Our loft conversion, Extension architects offer cutting edge design solution and will work closely with you to maximise the space without compromising on quality. They will guide you through the whole process. Catalin will ensure smooth running of the project, being on hand every step of the way making sure projects is delivered on time and most importantly on budget. We’ve perfected the loft conversion, extensions over the years to keep it as simple as possible from start to finish, making sure your aware every step of the way. We offer a 10 years insurance backed guarantee on all major works carries out by SKG CONSTRUCTION LTD all work is fully insured comes with a 10 years workmanship warranty. we carry out all types of building works Loft, Extensions, home renovations, tiling, flooring, plumbing, painting, rendering, brickworks, plastering, carpentry, roofing, steel structural works
I have money. I asked if you had a PayPal account so I could send you the deposit and you told me to “forget it” and to “find someone else”. You also gave me 1 week to get the work done before you left for 3-4 months. As I said, my feedback was accurate. You seemed nice and willing to help, but the minute I asked for a different more secure way to get you money you told me to forget it. PayPal is tracked, and secure.
Optimum Drain offers rapid emergency drainage solutions for residential, commercial, and industrial.With a skilled team and cutting-edge technology, we swiftly unblock all drains. Emergency Drains Unblocking Service 1. Commercial enquiries please contact us 2. Fast and reliable call out (same day service) if necessary 3. No call out fee 4. Free advice and quotations 5. Fast and stress free unblocking of drains 6. General drain CCTV surveys 7. Commercial crawler CCTV surveys 8. Pre-purchase CCTV home buyers surveys 9. New drainage installations 10. Water main repair and install 11. Rain water soakaways 12. Septic tanks and drainage fields 13. Treatment plants 14. Pitch fibre re-rounding and bursting 15. We specialize in drain repairs including all aspects of drain relining 16. Insurance repairs carried out 17. All maintenance remedial work will have a standard 10-year warranty 18. Our rates are set to a half hourly basis 19. Full reports issued on request
They came the next day. Diagnosed the problem & fixed it quickly.
A & L Ever Ready Cleaning & Building Maintenance LTD
Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning
I've been working in the maintenance Industry for the past 19 years and i've worked for 6 different councils in London, I've been trading since 2012 with this company.
Sebastien and his colleague came and definitely delivered! They cleared my garden from all the weed, overgrown grass and thornbushes so well I forgot how big my garden was. I could see how meticulous and careful they were with their work and also cleaned up after themselves before they left the premises. 5 stars all around!
Stafford & Lloyd heating plumbing - solar hot water systems
Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning
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.
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
DX Construction ltd is a building company based in sheffield south yorkshire with Experienced and qualified builders With over 11 years experience in the trade we pride ourselves on perfection & 5 STAR quality. We have the skills, knowledge and creativity to solve your site specific problems. References available. Please get in touch for a great reliable and professional service We cover following areas: - Sheffield - Rotherham - Doncaster - Chesterfield - and other surrounding areas SERVICES WE PROVIDE 1 Extension 2 Loft conversions 3 Refurbishments & full house renovation 4 Roofing 5 Chimney removal 6 Landscaping and garden work 7 Carpentry & joinery 8 Kitchen & bathroom fitting 9 Electrical & plumbing Please get in touch for a great reliable and professional service
Andrea and his team were excellent. He is very reliable, efficient and hard working. He made a very challenging job look easy and did some extra things for me that weren’t included in the quote, without charging extra. He got back to me quickly and the whole job took less than 2 weeks from me posting to completion. I would definitely recommend this company and I’m sure I will ask him to do other jobs for me.
FINISHERS. You're complete building & decorating solutions. Established 1995 , finishers is a family ran business in the centre of Cambridge we guarantee any work undertaken will be completed to the highest standards. For a free quote contact FINISHERS
Michael replaced the window in the garage with a glass door on time and on budget. He is easy to communicate with, cheerful , efficient, and tidy. We liked his positive attitude.
We are a family run company with over 40 years in the building trade. We offer a complete Building service with All trades being covered. A prompt friendly service. All jobs no matter how big or small, One-Call covers it all.
Did not finished the job properly some things left undone. Promised an electrictral certificate which wasn't forthcoming . Sent an email and left a message on their phone did not reply . Can use the new room but not a hundred percent satisfied
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
Paul did a number of jobs for us, namely a roof repair. He was efficient, calling out promptly, and took the time to explain some of the issues we were having with the property.He completed all jobs to a high standard and at reasonable price. Would highly recommend!
At Baymore we pride ourselves on providing a professional and high standard service at an affordable price. We are a small local business with the intentions of growing along side our community. With our fair prices and combined 20 year experience, our customers satisfaction has and always will be, top priority.
Tommy and Paddy were professional from the initial site visit through to the completion of the job. They kept me informed throughout and left everything spotlessly clean. Thoroughly recommended.
Welcome to Hands-on Maintenance, a family-owned and operated maintenance business with a passion for quality service and customer satisfaction. With over 20 years of experience, we specialise in providing reliable, efficient, and personalised maintenance solutions for both residential and commercial properties. Our business was founded on the principles of hard work, integrity, and a commitment to treating our clients like family. From small repairs to large-scale projects, we take pride in delivering exceptional results that exceed expectations. At Hands-on Maintenance we believe that trust and transparency are the foundations of lasting relationships, and we strive to be your go-to partner for all your maintenance needs. Let our family take care of yours!
Choosing Hands-On Maintenance for decorating our home was a wise decision. They created a vibrant and welcoming home for us. I highly recommend these guys.
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. newporthomeimprovmentscom
Luke was incredibly fast and fitted a new tap in our kitchen. A very professional job. I would recommend him to everyone.
We are a new and uprising company, which has very experienced workers of 10+ years in everything to do with Gardening. From cutting weeds, grass, branches and hedges to floral designing, moulding hedges and using the hard earned skills to make your garden look the best way possible. For our clients we don’t just tidy the garden we transform the garden. We can also give an artistic approach. We also have specialists in building, with cement, concrete, bricks, wood such as fencing, decks, path ways made from any material wanted, etc. We can do everything there is to do about gardening, and Some more! Such as waste removal. Like furniture or anything else. We’ll asses it, give you a quote and help you out.
Taps to Central Heating, no job is too small or too big, Qualified Plumber with many years experience in Plumbing & Heating Division with Total Building expertise, C&G 6129 in General Plumbing since 2010. Delivering fast, reliable, and friendly service.
Quick response to message, quick turnaround to job and problem solved. Thank you Leo. Happy to use your services again
BAM plumbing and heating are a plumbing and heating company that have been going for 2 years we cover any plumbing work no matter how big or small in the kent area
Ben was exceedingly speedy in contacting me on a Thursday afternoon & had diagnosed my faulty boiler shortly after arriving. He was able to source the necessary parts and completed the repair on the Sunday morning although was willing to do this earlier. The boiler has been running very smoothly ever since. Ben demonstrated professionalism & knowledge. Will use again although hopefully not too soon!
Over 20 years of experience in commercial and domestic construction projects.
Paul and artur are amazing guys, job done with perfection always on time and even stayed longer to prioritise completing the job. Very genuine guys and reasonable price
We are a friendly family run business of 3 generation's We offer a complete building service with all of our trades men in house. we have completed some major restorations such as Vermont hotel 108 bathrooms county hotel full conversion many extensions and house builds also maintenance for landlords and home owners give us a try and hope to see you soon.
Quick efficient service - job completed next day by friendly workers.
'%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