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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.
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.
Plumbing, groundwork and Underground water services At gcb utilities we strive to provide our customers with a high quality end to end service. we know it can be stressful dealing with leaks, repairs and improvements But with our expertise and professional staff we get the job done in good time and with as little disruption to you as possible. From the first contact our friendly staff have you covered. Whether your looking for a leak fixing,you have pressure issues, need pipe work installing or moving, new water supply or external leak repair With our wiaps, chas,constructionline and water safe approval, guaranteed work your in safe hands Give us a call or message for a free no obligation quote
Enthusiastic to sort-out our problem. Planned to meet and it happened bang on time. Came-up with the solution and had the job done within their own time estimate.. Problem solved on time and around the estimated budget. Well done!
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
The advertised job I have could not get much better because it has been first class.
At Cymraeg Construction, building work has been at the heart of our family for generations with skills, knowledge and training passed on from one to another, even in the day to day running of the business we can call upon over 40 years experience from my father who is an integral part of the company and has made us what we are today with a passion for quality that shines through on every job we undertake. Covering all of South Wales, you can be sure to rely on us to undertake any project you may have from conception to completion, we can take care of all aspects of the build including planning and skilled tradesmen in all trades, let us deal with all the complications and timings as we project manage the process to ensure everything is done correctly and to schedule all while keeping you informed every step of the way. Please feel free to contact us for a free no obligation estimate on any work you may have. Cymraeg Construction.
Gareth and his team were amazing and professional throughout. He was very knowledgable regarding the options available to us. All work was completed quickly and efficiently. Gareth kept in contact with us throughout our garage renovation and even kept in touch afterwards to check everything was ok for the fitment of the garage door. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Gareth and his team and would definitely use them again for any future building work on my home. Great job completed.
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 answered the ad promptly and arrived when he said he would and gave a very reasonable quote. He completed the job efficiently and to a high standard the same day. He was really helpful and tidy. Very pleased with the result and I would definitely use Newport Building and Home Improvements for future jobs.
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 !
Quick reponse North west are a newly formed company covering a range of different services in and around the north west. We have over 25 years experience gaining knowledge and expertise. We offer high quality workman ship at competitive rates.
30 years plus of experience, all general work carried out. Clean and tidy worker always reliable.
We are a professional building and plumbing firm with over 10 years experience in the trade. we are a family run business and are highly skilled and we are fully insured. Honest and reliable
wall was rebuilt within 2 days Brilliant services they have gone above and beyond I would highly recommend Dan and callum these are the builders you. Need. And are also got them in to do more work thank you guys. Fast turn around 10/10 Punctuation 10/10 Workmanship 10/10
DMH Group is a family-run business with over 15 years of expertise in providing comprehensive landscaping and building solutions. Covering a large area in the south east our team takes pride in offering a diverse range of services, catering to all aspects of landscaping and building work. From transforming outdoor spaces into beautiful landscapes to undertaking building projects of varying scales, DMH Group is committed to delivering excellence. No project is too big or too small for us as we strive to bring creativity, quality craftsmanship, and personalized attention to every detail.
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.
Kernow Plant Hire & Skips & Groundworks
Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning
We offer a range of services from groundworks, tarmacking and concreting, drainage, we also have our own mini Digger and dumper aswell as we hire 2,4,6 & 8 yard skips
Very professional and was able to start sooner than expected would definitely hire them again
TP Building Services & Property Management
Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning
Working with our customers to create their ideas into reality!
Sorry to add this bad report but I’ve waited quite a long time for Tom to come and amend his bad work. Still hasn’t come and is now ignoring all calls etc. First rainfall my patio has two areas, one side of the house the patio has a massive pool of water standing not draining away. I’ve repeatedly called and asked Tom to come. He came once and drilled a couple of holes, that hasn’t solved the problem. He is not responding to me now so I’m stuck with it. Paid a lot of money and so dissatisfied
Drainage Facilities Management LTD
Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning
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Drainage Facilities Management Was formed in September 2016 With the Management Team having Over 40 Year’s Experience of Working in the Drainage Industry
Rating on value was our reaction to the job as priced. In the event at Matthew's suggestion we claimed on the house insurance and with his help with a comprehensive report they paid out without a quibble and very quickly.
Reliable plumbing services from a qualified plumber. Over 12 years experience! Any type of plumbing issue from leaks to new installations. -Booster pumps -Central heating issues -Radiator repair or replacement l -Repair or replacing bath, toilet, basin or kitchen sink. -Immersion heater/ boilers -Taps, mixers, bidet spray. -Install kitchen appliances
Great customer service and very professional
My name is Jamie. I run j.smith & son roofing and building Ltd. We are a family run business that's been running for almost 30 years. I have been running it myself for the past 14 years. We also offer free quotes and all work comes under guarantee and also fully insured. Fascia/soffits Guttering Porches Aluminium guttering Cast guttering Lead work Lead roofing Flat roofs Dry ridge Dry verge Roof repairs New roofs Chimneys removed Conservatory tiled roofs plus much more We also give a 15 year quarantee with most work. We will beat any like for like, genuine quote by 20% These are the services we can provide: -Block Paving -Slabbing -Gravel -Driveways -Patio's -Fencing -Tarmac -Patio/Driveway Cleaning -Landscaping
Excellent communication, friendly and professional. The work was completed to a great standard and at a good price. I would recommend, great job.
Welcome to JBLB Plumbing and Heating Services . We are a small family-run plumbing company who specialise in domestic plumbing repairs and installations, radiator and boiler upgrades, bathroom installation and mobility / walk in showers. As a company, we pride ourselves on delivering all of our customers with a prompt and reliable service, no matter how small the job may be. We also offer discounts to OAPs for most small plumbing repairs and installations.
Job done on time and quickly. Arrived when they said they would. Easy to deal with. Would recommend.
We are a small company focusing on client satisfaction. I have worked in every aspect of the landscaping industry for 35 years. During which i have achieved 2 medals at Hampton court palace flower show. We keep it personal and we build what the client wants. We are also fully qualified civil engineers and drainage engineers which comes in very useful when landscaping as we can asses drainage issues and design problems before they arise A full design service is also available with a massive portfolio to back it up with We design and build for you not for us and we make sure your garden should be exactly what you want it to be at a budget you set
Frank and his team were professional and efficient throughout. He made interesting suggestions to the design at the outset. They arrived to start the job when agreed and explained how the tasks would be completed. All work was carried out to a high standard, and it was noticeable how organised and tidy they were. The final result is brilliant, exceeding our expectations. We thoroughly recommend Frank and his team.
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.
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
Work was done efficiently and quickly, and to a high standard . We will definitely use this company again.
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