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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.
I have been working on all types of drain care for over 25 year and take pride in the work i do not only for me but also for my customers. I like to exceed the expectations of the customer and value there custom .all work is carried out to a high standed. I am fast affordable. and most of all reliable. Drainage Services (NW) Ltd covers a large area of the North West and North walse with prices cheaper than most main competitor. Find us on Facebook Drainage Service (NW) Ltd
Very clean and tidy and reliable, job done in a very professional way ....highly recommended " did exactly what was asked to do "
Complete Jetting
Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning
Complete Jetting will unblock your drains quickly and efficienty. Providing profession jet clearing and pressure washing across Medway and Kent. General plumbing work undertaken
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
Very happy with our “new garden”. We were kept informed each day about what to expect. They worked hard and fast and the end result is fantastic. They cleaned up each day and were very accommodating. I think we were lucky to find James and his gang. Thank you ???? would definitely recommend this company.
Our company brings together highly qualified specialists with professional education and extensive experience in plumbing and carpentry. We successfully handle projects of any complexity, from minor repairs to large-scale installation and restoration work. All our craftsmen regularly undergo advanced training, mastering modern technologies and tools, ensuring the highest quality and reliability of our services.
Professional, hardworking . Reliable . Ruslan came , saw and conquered
Hi. My name is George and I have built a trustworthy business over the last 15 years based mostly on recommendation.We are a team of experienced carpenters,tilers,plumbers,plasterers,painters and decorators. Professional, reliable, clean and tidy Why Choose Me? I guarantee a good price for a high standard of work.Thank you
This was my first time employing a tradesman and using Rated People. George and his team from AG Building did the job.
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 can help out with the following: GARDENING AND LANDSCAPING Garden clearance: -removal of weeds and all kinds of bramble; -trimming and cutting back hedges; -pruning or complete removal of small and medium trees, any bushes and or ivy; -lawn mowing; -tidy up of flower beds -removal of any other unwanted items from your garden Groundwork and lanscaping; -digging/turnover soil; -ground levelling; -turf&artificial grass installation; -terracing and levelling a sloping garden; -installation of patios, walkways, decks, borders, etc; -building of raised beds and borders/delimitations. -fencing&gate installation; -pergola installation; RUBBISH REMOVAL: -domestic&garden waste; -commercial waste; -builders waste.
Roman did an outstanding job. Communication was excellent and the job was competitively priced and expertly done.
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.
Super team to work with. The shed was put up beautifully and they arrived on time and put up the 7x5 shed without any hassle! Will ask them again when ever I need another shed. Thanks and would recommend Mark 100%! Thank you!!
Welcome to this site. The client is the most important visitor on our premises. They are not dependent on us, we are dependent on them. They are not an interruption to our work, they are the purpose of it.
Fitted some lintels for me. Michael was friendly, knowledgeable and easy to work with. Turned up when agreed and did an excellent job. Would highly recommend this Company.
Taylors Building Contractors is your go-to solution for comprehensive property maintenance services. From routine upkeep to emergency repairs, here to ensure your space remains in optimal condition. With a focus on quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction, we take the hassle out of property care.we cover all traditional trades to plastering, carpentry, plumbing, and general building maintenance. Roofing, Brickwork,Fully insured, Credit & Debit cards excepted.
Steve and team did a fantastic job, fixing a few issues in the house for my tenant. Really good service and communication, and will ask him to do jobs in the future.
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Called immediately and sent someone within 2 hours, when id asked for 2 days - unbelievably quick. Really reasonably priced, professional job, handyman was polite and fixed my cupboard and drawer. Highly recommend.
LITA CONTRACTORS LTD We are a family owned construction company with over 10 years of successful commercial and residential building projects. Based in London, we help clients with all kinds of construction needs, with existing plans or brand-new designs and solutions. Some of our services include: - Ground work - Drainage - Basements - First Fix & Second Fix - Kitchen & Bathroom Fit Out - RC Frame & Steel Frame We are specialised in delivering reliable and best quality services that will last a generation.
I needed my shed reducing in size urgently. Haki came in half an hour and gave a very reasonable quote. He and his brother worked tirelessly over 2 days to do the job. It looks great and they tidied up after themselves too.
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
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!
We are an interior and exterior cleaning company. We are new to Rated people but have excellent reviews on Bark. We are committed to good service and cost effective cleaning solutions.
Thomas is absolutely fantastic. Our conservatory has had a new lease on life and is gleaming, inside and out. Thomas and his colleague was polite and friendly. They were on time. Communication throughout was fabulous. Cannot recommend him and his team enough. Would use again.
Five Star Construction is a family run business with the aim to provide affordable handyman and development works. We are full insured and all our operatives are fully trained for the work we carry out. Our friendly team are awaiting your call
Good value Very profession Quick and tidy workman Would definitely use them again. Regards Thomas
Highly-skilled engineers offer quality clearances for all drain blockages internal,external we operate 24/7
Lee attended the job very quickly. He communicated well via WhatsApp to keep me Informed of progress. Thank you!
Pyramids is a high end building contractor based in the Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham, specialising in conversions, extensions, and full home refurbishments. We keep our practices trustworthy, honest, organised and friendly. We strive to deliver the very best in quality work for our clients. Our team have worked together for many years, which makes for a healthy atmosphere on site and around the office. We are really approachable too. Please feel free to call or send an email today so we can arrange a time to meet that works around your schedule. We will meet with you on site, listen to your ideas in detail, carry out a full site survey, discuss the building process and confirm the brief with you. Following on, we will be able to give you advice for the next steps and provide you with a detailed quotation and proposed timeline.
With very short time to get the work done they did a great job, and I was quite happy with the result.
Reactive Drains
Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning
Reactive Drains Birmingham are plumbers specialising in drain unblocking services in Birmingham, Sutton Coldfield and the surrounding area. Our engineers are fully trained and possess years of specialist experience in drain unblocking, jetting, drain surveys, and general plumbing work. We respond to a number of issues, including blocked drains, sinks and toilets, plumbing leakages, and more. Available at short notice, our aim is to resolve your plumbing issues as quickly as possible. In need of a plumber in the West Midlands? Then don't hesitate to contact Reactive Drains Birmingham!
Very happy with the work and good communication and will definitely use again
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