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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
This page has everything you’ll need to know about finding and hiring a local septic tank specialist.
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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.
J.E Landscapes & Construction
Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning
A professional, reliable and experienced tradesman with over 14 years of construction and landscaping experience. JE Landscapes and Construction has been in business for over 10 years and holds a wealth of knowledge in all aspects of landscaping and construction, specialising in the following: - Patios - Fencing - Extensions - Structural changes - Groundwork’s (including drainage, underpinning, soak away systems) - Oak sleeper beds - Concrete slabs -Turf / Astro
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We are specialized on landscaping and garden maintenance. Our leader, Norbert is professional hard landscaper. He has more that 10 years experience in fencing, timber work, laying patios, build driveways and create practical and enjoyable garden spaces.
Person came around and viewed but decided not to take on job. No quote or anything. Wasted our time.
Greetings. My name is Hughie. I have over 20 years of experience in plumbing, leak detection, and bathroom installations. My team and I pride ourselves on delivering the best quality work to our clients and ensuring all clients are happy with our work and service. We also have Tradesmen who can undertake any work you may require, who always look to go the extra step for our clients. Our main focus is leak detection, we have all the necessary high-tech equipment to efficiently diagnose and quickly repair ANY leak, blockage or drainage issue, we are available 24/7 to come out to your premises to swiftly resolve any issue you are facing. We have full Public Liability Insurance, and offer discounts to the vulnerable and OAPs, Hope to be in contact shortly, Hughie
AVOID AT ALL COST and it is the right company. Don’t pay him or his partner Nick Moules any money. Nick will probably visit your home within a couple of hours of posting the job (making you feel confident that your job will be finished as quickly as you need it to be) send you links to the materials to be purchased, ask for deposit and then stop all forms of communication. They will quote +/- £20 to the other tradesmen. Should be banned on this site.
From taps to central heating, no job is too big or small. A fully qualified plumber with over a decade of experience in plumbing, heating, and total building solutions. Certified with a C&G 6129 in General Plumbing since 2010, I pride myself on delivering fast, reliable, and friendly service you can trust.
Did the work quickly and efficiently.
Hello, We are a multi-trade team, with a 10 year experience in the UK and previous in Italy and Germany. We are new to this platform, hence the revews :) We pride ourselves in providing fair quotes and being professional and efficient Our skills range from cleaning roofs, gutters cleaning, pavement, building fences, gardening and landscaping, annex or conservatory building, house demolition or clearance, rubbish collection and disposal, to any type of interior jobs, such as: fitting, carpentry (first fix and second fix), dry lining, flooring, painting, studwork (metal or wood), tiling, bathroom and kitchen fitting and so on. There’s no job too big or too small!
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.
At AD Plumbing Heating and Electrical we put you the customer first. We aim to beat any quote and provide a better level of service. Flexible to suit your time schedules and aim to get it done as soon possible. We look forward hearing from you soon!
Very friendly and helpful, keen to make sure I was happy with the service provided, would definitely recommend.
JSF Plumbing Services is a full-service plumbing company that offers a wide range of services to residential, commercial, and industrial clients. We have been in business for over 20 years and are proud to be one of the most trusted and reliable plumbing companies in the industry. Our team of highly trained and experienced plumbers are committed to providing excellent customer service and delivering high-quality workmanship. • Residential Plumbing Services: Our residential plumbing services include everything from fixing leaky faucets to installing new plumbing systems. We also offer emergency services for urgent plumbing issues. • Commercial Plumbing Services: We provide a wide range of commercial plumbing services, including installation, repair, and maintenance of plumbing systems for office buildings, retail stores, restaurants, and more. • Water Heater Services: We offer installation, repair, and maintenance services for all types of water heaters, including tankless water heaters, gas water heaters, and electric water heaters. • Drain Cleaning Services: Our drain cleaning services include unclogging blocked drains, fixing slow drains, drainage jetting and repairing damaged sewer lines. • Leak Detection Services: We use the latest technology to detect leaks in your plumbing system and provide efficient and cost-effective solutions. • Emergency Services: We offer 24/7 emergency plumbing services to address urgent plumbing issues. Why Choose Us: • Experienced and highly trained plumbers • Reliable and efficient service • Competitive pricing • High-quality workmanship • 24/7 emergency services • Excellent customer service • Free estimates
Great job, good communication, very prompt
Keen Resources: Elevating Your Spaces for Years to Come Welcome to Keen Resources, your trusted partner in building and property maintenance solutions. Established in 2014 and proudly located in the vibrant North West London area, we are your go-to team for all your construction needs. At Keen Resources, we bring a wealth of experience to the table, with a family-run business that boasts a remarkable 25-year track record. We specialise in providing a wide range of services to Residential, Commercial, and Estate Agent clients, ensuring that every project is executed with the utmost precision and professionalism. Our dedicated team of experts covers a diverse spectrum of services, including: General Building: From the ground up, we craft solid foundations for your dreams to take shape. Roofing: Our experts ensure your property is protected from the elements with top-notch roofing solutions. Electrics: Safe and reliable electrical services to keep your property powered efficiently. Kitchen and Bathroom: Transforming these essential spaces into stunning, functional areas you'll love. Refurbishments: Breathing new life into tired spaces, making them vibrant and appealing. Plumbing: Efficient plumbing services to keep your property's water systems in excellent condition. Carpentry: Craftsmanship that adds character and functionality to your interiors. Tiling: Precision tiling work to enhance the aesthetics of your property. Painting and Decorating: Creating inviting and visually pleasing environments. Handymen (Multi-Skilled): Versatile experts ready to tackle any project with skill and efficiency. At Keen Resources, we are not just builders; we are partners in bringing your vision to life. We take immense pride in our commitment to delivering superior quality, meeting deadlines, and exceeding your expectations. Customer satisfaction is at the heart of everything we do. We believe that every project, big or small, deserves the same level of care and attention. With Keen Resources, you can trust that your project is in capable hands, and the end result will be nothing short of exceptional. Experience the difference with Keen Resources, where excellence in construction meets a passion for customer satisfaction. Contact us today and let's embark on a journey to turn your property dreams into reality.
After a very log and unnecessarily complicated and long process to get any accurate information from, and when an appointment was finally scheduled - no one showed up, no one replied to messages and calls. Utterly unprofessional, using random contractors, and clearly down to luck - if any of the other reviews are even real.
Welcome to AM Maintenance, We specialise in all aspects of building and maintenance works. Ranging from a leak in the roof or a new bathroom. we have an extensive range of services at competitive prices whilst delivering quality.
Dan & team did a fantastic job throughout and we are so pleased with the end result. They've transformed our home. Would highly recommend to anyone looking for a builder they can trust. Thanks 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
A family run business with over 15 years Plumbing & Drainage experience. I cover anything from a small leaking tap to emergency plumber, I work round the clock 24 hours a day. The best bit about my job is when I get a call, I get there and I help the customer and the customer is very grateful. I am really grateful when they make me a cup of tea with biscuits :)
Craig gave me a rough idea of price over the phone and came the same day. He seemed a nice guy & did a tricky installation without any fuss, worked quickly & stuck to his quote. I would use him again.
Heating and plumbing specialist
Cannot recommend enough. Diagnosed the problem as a broken fan. Got the part and replaced all in the same day.
Professional , friendly and thorough of customers needs . All types of property works covered with many skilled tradesmen . All works bespoke to requirement .
AVOID AT ALL COSTS I can't recommend Tom. Previously TH&Jones Ltd he has changed the company name. He has left us with an extension that doesn't meet building regulations and needs to be taken down. Our house unsalable. I have an independent report to support it. Insufficient foundation, no damp course, insufficient insulation, incorrect installation of roof. He said he would rectify if we paid for 'things unquoted' but failed to show exactly what. We haven't heard from him in months. Stay away!!
We are a family run business specializing in various types of gardening/landscaping/tree/property maintenance services/roofing, lawn care, garden designing, pressure washing, patios, driveways and much more. Please contact us for more in depth information and advice or for a no obligation quotation.
We used Kingz for clearance of a very overgrown garden and new fencing. They did exactly what they said they would do in their quote. They worked hard, left the garden tidy, and took away all the waste. They were very pleasant and Emma, in particular, gave good advice regarding ongoing after care of the garden. We were very happy with the results and would definitely recommend this family team!
Our building services company RMR Building & Renovation Ltd has over 15 years’ experience in the industry. We have been helping customers in Essex and the surrounding 20-mile radius by providing professional, trustworthy building services. We know it can be hard to find a builder that you can rely on RMR Building & Renovation Ltd has a wealth of experience and is known as one of the best builders in Essex. We pride ourselves on providing a professional, caring and high-quality service and always meet our customers’ needs. RMR Building & Renovation Ltd delivers on timekeeping, quality of work and value. We offer a full range of building services, from major rebuilds to smaller jobs such as masonry repairs, including: New Builds Alterations, Extensions & Conversions Brickwork Concrete Plastering & Screeding Tiling Painting & Decorating Kitchens & Bathrooms Roofing Services Re-pointing Septic Tanks Excavation Services Soakaways Foundations External Works Drainage If you are trying to find a builder near you, why not give us a call? Our friendly, professional team will be happy to talk through your needs and give you a free, no-obligation quote.
Professional, quality work,worth money
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
Did not turn up.
Free estimates , work done on hour, day or price basis. 24/7 locksmith Lock out emergency Installing Locks. ... Repairing Locks and doors Refurbishments bedroom-kitchen-bathrooms Hanging Pictures & Mirrors End of tenancy refurbishments Decorating Painting Wood paneling Home improvements Tiling DIY (Construction or Repair) Plastering Bricklaying Emergency plumbing
CG Building LTD , it is a small company , established back in 2016. We carry work all around UK , but now we are based in Somerset and we cover all surrounding areas. •We take small & big jobs ! •We do all aspects building •We offer a friendly and reliable service, working closely with the client to make sure they have a clear understanding of the works that are being carried out throughout the process. -Renovations- - Kitchen and bathroom insulations- Plastering. - Painting and decorating. - Carpentry-
Very professional. I would definitely recommend this trades person. Good pricing and great work. I am keeping his contract for work in the future.
I'm the owner of the company, with 30 years in the property refurbishment services with multiple qualifications to cover or years of time served of most trades. I just moved locally to the area, so I'm back with rated people to get quality clients.
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