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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.
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.
Hi there, we aim to look after our customers to make sure there happy with price & job to completion. If any problems occur on our side we will sort out free of charge. Give us a try and get a professional service from start to finish.
S&P did a great job on the plumbing issue I've had. They spent all the time require and resolved the matter. Very competitive and fair price. Provided a report and invoice promptly. Friendly and well presented. I have and would recommend them!
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
TTL Draincare is a family owned business established in 2020. With over 25 years experience across our team we cover all aspects of drain repair and maintenance. From blockages to excavations, surveys to septic tanks we cover it all. For any further information please do not hesitate to give us a call.
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!
We are a family run business and pride ourselves on a prompt, reliable and friendly service. Fully Insured, time served Tradesmen with over 35 years experience Plumbing and Gas Safe registered. Property Refurbishment Specialists. 24 Hour call outs
Arrived on time, did a very professional job for a good price, and we are very pleased with the result. We would thoroughly recommend.
We are general builders and groundwork contractors going the extra mile ,we have many satisfied customers more info can be supplied on request , check out my website all work has been completed by.uS. To a very high standard
MWE Builders removed our old garage, re built a new larger block construction garage, and we are very pleased with all of the work completed. Throughout the build we were kept informed of every stage, Matt was on site every day, even through some horrible wet weather. I would highly recommend MWE Builders, for price, quality, and friendliness. Thank you Matt, we appreciate all of the work you have done. Many Thanks Will and Wendy Kingswood Bristol
R&B refurbishment ltd For a decade, a Proficiency building company based in London has led all aspects of construction, luxury design and build. Whether you're looking to expand or refine your home with a loft conversion, rear or side extension, basement excavation, cellar conversion or a top to bottom refurbishment, our ethos is quality-first craftsmanship for the very best in residential design and build in London. When it comes to the quality and care that we put into every project, we think of ourselves as one of the leading building companies in London. This means that, as the right builder, we have the team, the expertise and the commitment to a high quality that sets us apart. Fully insured with Public and Employers Liability, Professional Indemnity, Contractors All Risk and high-risk basement works. We offer a 15-year guarantee on all of our structural building work. Proficiency only uses the highest quality building materials ensuring everything is built to standard and will last.
Fired him for appalling work, no-shows and delays; see his other bad reviews. He's a middle man; does not do any work; got others to do it like a plumber, then a tiler the next day; slow work made worse when someone messed up or did not show up. Ali only shows to deliver materials or check work. Quick to reply when wanting the job. Slow/no response once job starts thinking you wont cancel. Materials I paid not returned; take every receipt and check you keep/use every item as he will even for wipes/tape
Heating and plumbing specialist
Cannot recommend enough. Diagnosed the problem as a broken fan. Got the part and replaced all in the same day.
Taylor Made Gardens is a family run, friendly company. All jobs taylor made to suit at reasonable prices. free no obligation quotes. fast and Efficient. all work guaranteed. Fully Insured
So very pleased with the 35 metre feather board fence installed by Taylor Made Gardens. Will certainly use them again. Roger was easy to get along with and worked steadily with total attention to quality. The new fence looks great. Thanks.
Am a handyman who is specialised in different trade like plumbing roof works both new and repairs,kitchen specialists, bathroom fittings, painting and decorating, gardening, brickwork, plastering, drainage, guttering, And I have trading for 2o years in construction industry. I treat my costumers with care and respect.
Deo was wonderful. Immediate response. Arrived early did a great job and left everything clean and tidy. Highly recommended
Gudfort fencing ltd have been erecting fences for 25 years ,no job to big or small professional work always and no money upfront until all parties are 100% happy.
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.
Mid Suffolk Construction and Maintenance
Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning
General Building and maintenance New builds Exstensions Restoration Renovation
We had them in to install insulation in our upstairs floor, replace the sub floor, replace some lights, install a loft hatch, and board out our loft. On top of this they discovered a problem in our roof that they fixed. We were incredibly impressed by all of the staff that attended on site. They were friendly, polite at all times, and worked really hard, to a high standard. I couldn't recommend James and his team more, and we've already started talking to them about a further project.
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!
C Jenkins & Sons Limited Welcome to C Jenkins & Sons Limited, your trusted partner for comprehensive property solutions in London. With a rich legacy of excellence, we take pride in offering a diverse range of services tailored to meet all your property maintenance needs. From roofing to landscaping, patios, driveways, and power washing, we are your one-stop destination for elevating the aesthetics and functionality of your property. Our Specializations: 1. Property Maintenance: C Jenkins & Sons Limited is your go-to partner for proactive property maintenance. Our dedicated team ensures your property remains in optimal condition, providing regular inspections, repairs, and maintenance services to protect your investment. 2. Roofing Services: We specialize in roofing solutions that stand the test of time. Whether you require repairs, installations, or renovations, our skilled craftsmen employ the latest techniques and premium materials to deliver roofing solutions that marry durability with aesthetic appeal. 3. Landscaping Services: Transform your outdoor spaces into a haven of beauty with our bespoke landscaping services. From garden design to regular maintenance, our creative team crafts environments that harmonize with your lifestyle and preferences. 4. Patios and Driveways: Enhance your property's curb appeal with our expertly designed patios and driveways. Our team combines functionality with aesthetics to create inviting outdoor spaces that reflect your style. 5. Power Washing: Revitalize the exterior of your property with our professional power washing services. We remove dirt, grime, and stains, restoring surfaces to their original glory and leaving your property looking fresh and rejuvenated. Why Choose C Jenkins & Sons Limited: Comprehensive Expertise: With a wide range of services, we offer a holistic approach to property enhancement, ensuring all your needs are met under one roof. in property maintenance, roofing, landscaping, patios, driveways, and power washing services. Your property deserves the best, and we are here to deliver it. Customer-Centric Approach: We value your vision and work closely with you to understand your preferences, ensuring a personalized and satisfying experience. Timely and Reliable: At C Jenkins & Sons Limited, we understand the importance of timeliness. We complete projects efficiently without compromising on quality. Elevate your property with C Jenkins & Sons Limited – where excellence meets diversity .
I couldn’t be happier with the work! Chris and his team transformed my back garden into a beautiful, functional space I actually enjoy spending time in. Professional, punctual, and creative from start to finish. Highly recommend for anyone looking to upgrade their outdoor space!
30 years experience Public liability insurance All aspects of building works, quality and reliable guaranteed, competitive rates
Jack was great , fencing replacment , excellent communication and great work . Will be using him again . Thanks Jack very much - David , Hastings
Luke Taylor Construction
Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning
Before anything else, preparation is the key to success!!! All jobs require the highest level of effort and attention to detail, my belief is every customer deserves the service I would expect for myself. I can offer professional advice and assistance to the keen DIY’er or self builder. Alternatively, I can take on and complete your home improvement projects. No job too big or small. Exterior jobs include but not limited to: •Painting •Patios & Decking •Driveways •Fencing •Drainage •Sheds and bases •Raised planters •Landscaping •Garden clearance •Demolition work •All small jobs including garden furniture assembly Interior jobs include but not limited to: •Painting and decorating •carpentry work •Light fittings and socket replacement •Flooring, skirting boards, door hanging & architraves •Blinds and curtain poles •Shelving and wall mounted TV’s •Bespoke built in wardrobes & media walls •Wooden furniture Repairs •Furniture and flat pack assembly I have the experience and knowledge to deliver most home projects. All jobs considered
hello I have 15 year in the trade I am a multi skilled tradesmen who takes pride in what I do I love my job I work on a basis you not happy with my work you don't pay simple as that I am fully insured and vetted
Came out quickly and job sorted. Great service
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