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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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. Ask the current owners how much their service costs, so you can work out how much it’ll cost you annually.
  4. 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.
  5. Ask for a plan of the drainage system.
  6. 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. 
  7. 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 IrelandScotland 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.

Anglian emergency plumbers avatar

Anglian emergency plumbers

Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning

We have been trading for 23 years in plumbing. We offer all plumbing needs. We also have an emergency call out.

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Reviewed by Carol on 14/4/2025

Very helpful and worked above and beyond to sort another option for a favourable outcome

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Westridge Builders

Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning

30 years plus of experience, all general work carried out. Clean and tidy worker always reliable.

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Reviewed by Zamin on 27/1/2025
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Drains Away

Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning

Plumbing and drainage business. No job is to small either plumbing and drainage, indoor and out. Over 25 years experience in the plumbing industry.

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Reviewed by Ian on 17/2/2025

All fixed, by a really nice guy. Alastair, will recommend you without hesitation. Thank you.

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RATED PEOPLE LIMITED

Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning

Ruhulla Test

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Reviewed by New on 20/1/2023
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MAC Builders

Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning

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

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Reviewed by Deborah on 31/1/2025

Great job! I’m really pleased with the service I received and will definitely be using again soon. Thanks

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Comforooms LTD

Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning

Hello everyone, I am civil engineering, I worked with different company in France and UK , I finally decided to create my own company COMFOROOMS LTD. I have long experience in building and groundwork . I am a serious person, I like my job, I respect my customers and I always tried to make them happy. I promise you a good job, nice and clean. You have my warranty for every job I will do. I am looking forward to hearing from you soon Thank you H.Turki Director

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Reviewed by David on 5/6/2025

Excellent and Efficient. Came when they said they would and delivered a good job. Thanks

Ley Stone Services avatar

Ley Stone Services

Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning

We have over 50 years of experience in the construction industry. Specialising in high pressure cleansing/ jetting, with hot water or media blasting if required. Paths, patio's drives, walls, maintenance contracts. Drain jetting, 24 hour availability

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Reviewed by KIRSTY on 27/4/2022

They arrived when they said they would. Very friendly and got on promptly with the works. Left the premises clean and tidy and was happy with the cost - not forgetting they sorted the issue out we had. would and will recommend.

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.

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Reviewed by Russell on 19/12/2022

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

Tucker Homes LTD avatar

Tucker Homes LTD

Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning

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.

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Reviewed by Graham on 15/12/2024

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.

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B.T.I Construction

Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning

I am an independent builder with 24 years of experience and cover most areas in the construction industry. I have a good team of friendly workers who work very hard and we get the work done in good time and to a high standard.

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Reviewed by Carissa on 2/11/2021

Lovely job, really happy with my new laminate flooring! I would highly recommend Ben.

Erisure LTD avatar

Erisure LTD

Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning

Erisure LTD , we are a family owning business running for more than 6 years. Our home improvement business is born from knowing exactly what you want in your home or business places . Our business aim is to fill your home and business places with love and comforts . Here is Just to say few of the many services we offer - We do total interior refurbishments for kitchens, bathrooms, floors , walls , ceilings, Tilings and more . Painting and decorating is also one of our core and passionate services. We improved , painted and decorated hundreds of homes so far.

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Reviewed by Sam on 18/11/2024

Desali delivered an exceptional service. The job was certianly not straight forward but given his persistence and creative thinking he managed to provide exactly what I needed. I would recommend him as a plumber to anyone looking to get a reliable, dedicated service for any plumbing related issues or projects. He's a top bloke

R & B Refurbishment LTD avatar

R & B Refurbishment LTD

Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning

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.

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Reviewed by Andrew on 19/5/2025

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

DRAIN ZONE LIMITED avatar

DRAIN ZONE LIMITED

Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning

At Drain Zone, we have the expertise and over 20 years of hands-on experience to keep your drains flowing smoothly. We offer a fast response times for emergency works for both commercial and residential customers. With a wide range of services and equipment, we can deal with most requests. * Blocked drains * CCTV camera inspections * New pipework installation * Drain Repairs * Septic tanks * New soak away install * Home buyers drainage survey * Drainage clearance * Root ingress issues * Lining installation * New Pump installed * Pump services * Maintenance Packages * Plumbing Team * Pitch fibre issues * Water leaks We work to a high standard to keep our clients happy. Our remedial works come with a 10 year in house warranty.

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Reviewed by Alex on 11/2/2025

Excellent quick to respond and got the job done.

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Lorenzo Building Services

Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning

We are a hard working team with great experiance

ACTION BUILDING SERVICES LTD avatar

ACTION BUILDING SERVICES LTD

Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning

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.

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Reviewed by Adish on 12/4/2025

Dealt with the leak in the kitchen very well. Friendly, clean and keeps you informed. Would highly recommend.

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1st Choice Landscaping and Groundwork

Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning

Family run business, with thirty years experience in the industry. We are a friendly and reliable service.

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Reviewed by Keith on 1/5/2024

A good job, expertly carried out, but not quite up to our expectations with clearing the debris. It took us two days to get the garden back to normal. The second phase of the order is yet to be done and I’m sure that they will satisfy our requirements.

JR Thomas avatar

JR Thomas

Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning

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Reviewed by Claire on 31/3/2019

Very fast service. Well within my budget.

Absolute Plumbing avatar

Absolute Plumbing

Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning

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.

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Reviewed by David on 3/6/2025

A small but tricky job was dealt with swiftly and efficiently. Also cleared up another minor job for us without charge. We highly recommend this professional.

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Buster Construction and Renovations

Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning

We are a family run business with over 15 years in the building trade. From joiners, plumbers, electricians, painting/decorators, landscapers and plasterers we have it all. We take great pride in our work and customer care is priority.

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Reviewed by Martha on 28/3/2025

Great service and very efficient, friendly and helpful - very happy with the work!

Ciprian Construction Ltd avatar

Ciprian Construction Ltd

Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning

“I am a versatile handyman with expertise in a wide range of home repairs, maintenance tasks, and gardening services. From fencing repairs, build,patio and paving to carpentry and painting, I bring a strong attention to detail and craftsmanship to every project. With my 5 years experience on private jobs,and all the customers been very happy about my services, i am pleased to introduce my self with confidence and enthusiasm! Additionally, I have experience in gardening, including landscaping, plant care, and garden maintenance. I am committed to delivering high-quality work that ensures both your home and outdoor spaces look their best.” I am new on this site,app, and I don’t have any reviews yet, but definitely they will come!

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Reviewed by Ola on 27/4/2025

So pleased with the work Ciprian did for me. He sourced the security gate and found a great reasonable price for me. He communicated throughout and arrived promptly to my home to install the gate. He was very professional and polite at all times. He demonstrated how to use the gate and fully explained the whole process. I would recommend Ciprian and am very grateful for the work he completed.

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