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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.
Best choice contract to Ltd we specialise in top and quality construction project in Wiltshire and London we cover all areas of building work from renovation and extension and conversion through to entire managed construction project whether you want a larger kitchen open plan living area and extra bedroom a house extension we could take you one step closer to having the home of your dream we work throughout Wiltshire and London area providing reasonable price quality construction and building services to a wide range of satisfied clients we pride ourselves on our reputation by offering a high standard of workmanship friendly and professional advice and making your project with us as hasslefree as possible Valentino
Valentino has done a fantastic job of bathroom and kitchen refurbishment. He has delivered what he had promised no hidden charges and no false promises. Very reliable and soft spoken. He uses the best material in the market so quality of product is very good. He did the facia as well which is also of very good specifications. Overall he is a fantastic builder and I would 100% recommend him.
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
APEX PLUMBING AND PROPERTY SOLUTIONS LTD
Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning
Apex is a maintenance service company, specialising in Plumbing, Heating and General Building. Our experienced team offer a host of skills, covering many different sectors to allow us to be your one-stop shop. So whether you're a domestic customer with a plumbing and heating issue, or, a domestic client requiring general property solutions, we can tailor your needs under one roof. Our team is fully insured and with over 30 years of experience, we're the go-to company for plumbing and heating, with a quick-to-action call-out priority covering Oxfordshire, Bucks and Berkshire.
Fantastic job. Clear communication and completed the work within time. Will recommend whole heartedly.
Formation Groundworks
Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning
Foundations to finishings and everything inbetween; Concreting, Drainage, Patios, Driveways, Fencing, Turfing & Artificial Grass. 18 years experience, going into our 4th year as Formation Groundworks.
Lorenzo Building Services
Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning
We are a hard working team with great experiance
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.
Did a great job, door looks perfect.
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Growing up, we were immersed in the building trade through our father’s work. Tom in particular, would assist our father on weekends, serving as his labourer. After forging separate career paths in customer care, the NHS, and the plumbing industry we decided to pool our collective skills in customer service management and building industry knowledge. During this time, Beth also founded an independent cleaning business while still maintaining her full time employment, with a primary focus on changeover cleans. We identified a niche for a building services company that offers an integrated cleaning service. We help you improve your home, whilst treating it like our own. If it wouldn’t happen in our own house it won’t happen in yours, remember we are great problem solvers with 50+ years of experience. As well as helping home owners, we specialise with holiday let management focusing on package bundles of cleaning, maintenance, and health and safety compliance to streamline processes to allow owners more freedom and let go of the day to day.
Brilliant service. Would recommend and I would absolutely use again. Very efficient.
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.
I am extremely happy with the work Carl carried out over the two days. It was only supposed to take a couple of hours but Carl found additional issues. Although it meant being without the use of the toilet over the weekend, Carl was back on Tuesday morning to finish the job. Attention to detail and going the extra mile are excellent attributes for this plumbing expert! Thank you Carl.
WHITE PEAK PAVING LTD
Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning
Paving, groundwork and landscaping business based in Chesterfield and covering everywhere within a 25 mile radius, including; •Chesterfield •Sheffield •The Peak District And more! Established 2015 We own our own plant and machinery and undertake work including; Groundwork Footings dug and extensions and properties built to DPC Paving Patios Driveways Fencing Gates Drainage work including lawn and land drainage schemes General building Property maintenance Tree and garden clearance Digger and dumper hire Full garden landscaping Refurbishment of existing paving etc. Metal handrails and fencing We aim to offer a quality service and do a quality job for an affordable price NPORS qualified SSSTS site supervision
Mr Mower is a small family run business and we do a range of garden services. Lawn mowing Fencing Hedge Cutting Landscaping Decking Turfing Patios Garden clearance
Carl is an excellent professional. He installed super fast a beautiful deck in our garden. Thank you very much, Carl, no more muddy garden, we will enjoy the decking and the outdoor living thanks to you! Definitely, I would recommend you for any outdoor work.
We put heart in everything we do . We deliver best ratio on quality/pricing . With experience ranging from 5 to 25 years in the Construction Industry our team can manage any job , small or big .
I have been a builder for 42 years. I do brickwork, repointing, drainage, block paving, patios, concreting, landscaping, stone work, exterior painting etc.. I cover all aspects of building work. and all aspects of groundwork and we specialise in lime mortar pointing
Job done well within the week.
Pocock developments has been trading in and around Berkshire and the home counties for some 30 years with great references. its a family run business with myself and my wife Kerry. We Produce fixed price quotations. we are Elecsa certified.
Then why is your new company Studio Construction Ltd being forced to close. Why have you not replied to my many requests to complete works. Why did you tell me that my money was in a secure bank account. Why did you tell me that materials were paid for to lock the price. Why have I needed to redecorate the whole house as the painting is a disaster. I have photos as proof and theres more. Too many to mention. You tell me that I need to pay for already paid for materials theres more.
With over 25 years of experience, and with Danny Walker at the helm of W2.0 Developments Ltd has become a trusted name in construction and development in The Home Counties. As a reputable principal contractor, we specialise in delivering high-quality construction services to both residential and commercial clients. Our commitment to excellence and client satisfaction sets us apart as one of the top construction companies in The Home Counties. Founded on the principles of quality, reliability, and innovation, W2.0 Developments Ltd has grown from a small local contractor into a leading force in the construction industry across The Home Counties. Our journey has been driven by our dedication to delivering exceptional results, building lasting relationships with our clients, and continually raising the standards of construction.
Promptly response to enquiry and the work is professionally done.
Hi,my name is vathi and i am a hardworking, well-organized and experienced handyman with a keen eye for details,physical stamina and apt in problem-solving.Moreover,i perform various repairs and maintenance tasks, including appliance installation, routine landscaping on the grounds and carpentry
Vathi contacted me promptly and followed up with a call. He visited the following day to examine the job and provide a quote. I appreciated this level of customer service.
Heating and plumbing specialist
Cannot recommend enough. Diagnosed the problem as a broken fan. Got the part and replaced all in the same day.
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.
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.
We are a groundwork’s and building company with 20 years experience
Jay and his team connected our garden house to the water supply and sewer network. They worked fast and did a very good job. Our terrace looks better now than before! The quote was honest for the amount of work. I really recommend them.
Drain fix Ltd we are the cheapest and most professional drainage company as we are very small and independent we give our customers the best deals we can and still achieve perfect results every time ? Polite, fast and reliable Call us first Blocked drains power jet cleaned start price £125 camera surveys with same day reports. £75. Groundworks , gutter cleaning with the new sky Vac system
would recommend these guys,they no what there doing,honest,trustworthy and reliable
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