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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.

ASAP Drainage avatar

ASAP Drainage

Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning

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.

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Reviewed by Anne on 9/7/2024

Great efficient job, 24h after I advertised on RP Homes !

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Gudfort fencing

Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning

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.

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Reviewed by David on 6/8/2025

Matthew was easy to communicate with he was honest about the job and not put off by the private lane access - which meant all materials had to come down lane and through the house they were tidy - professional and attention to detail It was also very refreshing to see a trade man that had enough professional ability to only require £250 Deposit to hold date - did not need materials paid up front as he clearly runs a good cash flow company with good trade accounts. Total professional and lovely Gentleman.

J. Smith & Sons avatar

J. Smith & Sons

Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning

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

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Reviewed by simon on 28/12/2023

Excellent communication, friendly and professional. The work was completed to a great standard and at a good price. I would recommend, great job.

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Pocock Developments

Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning

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.

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Reviewed by Susanne on 25/3/2025

Spencer at Pocock Developments project managed our work very well. From the fully detailed quote, to advising on any pricing changes and providing some extra plastering work - got to say everything was managed smoothly and transparently, and the one hiccup over the roof tiles was put right quickly. Plus we appreciated Myron and Ivan's eye for detail and managing their work around the weather. Our two dormers look great, so thanks Pocock Development and we'd definitely use them again ????

Cn Construction&Gardening Ltd avatar

Cn Construction&Gardening Ltd

Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning

C & N Constructions is a well-established company offering construction and landscaping services for both residential and commercial clients. Our faith: We believe in open and honest communication and shared goals which will generate greater continuity in workload and thereby provide sustained improvements in quality, efficiency & delivery. Our mission: To safely deliver any project, any time, in any environment for the benefit of our customers, shareholders, employees and the communities we serve. Company vision: C&N Constructions is committed to building long-term relationships based on integrity, performance, value, and client satisfaction. We will continue to meet the changing needs of our clients with our quality services delivered by the most qualified people. Get in touch and we can start asap! We offer free and no obligation project estimate.

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Reviewed by John on 29/6/2025

The job was to cut back a severely overgrown patch of garden. Chris & his team, Adrian & Cosmin, gave me a competitive quote, after coming to visit the site to assess what needed to be done. They started next day and completed the job quickly and to my complete satisfaction. The site was cleaned up & all waste taken away. I will definitely use them again and strongly recommend them.

JSF PHD avatar

JSF PHD

Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning

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

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Reviewed by Nigel on 18/12/2025
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Reni Finishes

Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning

Our team consists of Painters and Decorators who takes great pride in the work we do. Our aim is to ensure a 100% customer satisfaction. We believe in quality of work and will always aim to deliver the best quotes and quality of craftsmanship possible. We are reliable, and will always aim to charge the given price at quotation. I accommodate services for both domestic and commercial clients. We offer quality advice and services. Our services include: Exterior Painting, Painting and Decorating, Wallpapering, Wooden Windows stripped and painted, Free No Obligation Quotes Guarantee of Work Carried Out Please contact us with any queries or questions.

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Reviewed by Paul on 25/7/2025

Indrit from Reni did an excellent interior painting/decorating job for me. If you want a friendly, solid and reliable professional then he's your man. Obviously, I'm very happy with his work!

KBACONSTRUCTION.LTD avatar

KBACONSTRUCTION.LTD

Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning

www.kbaconstruction.online MAKE YOUR HOUSE INTO A HOME TODAY WITH KBA CONSTRUCTION'S We are a building company with many years combined experience. working as Builder in London (UK), we help to make your house a home or property investment you can rely on.

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Reviewed by Mannie on 27/9/2025
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AM Maintenance

Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning

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.

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Reviewed by Nicole on 5/11/2024

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!

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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 benjamin on 23/10/2025

came to quote, sent a quote through, arranged a day to start the work and never turned up. We rearranged the date, he turned up, had a cup of tea, left to get materials and never came back. Now not answering my calls.

James & Marys Plumbernow Plumbing & Drainage offers expert local plumbing services across Sheffield, South Yorkshire and surrounding areas. James & Mary specialise in rapid response and high-quality solutions. Our services include emergency plumbing, drainage, boiler repairs, central heating installation, and general plumbing maintenance. What sets James & Marys Plumbernow apart is our commitment to transparent, local and honest 24/7 service with no hidden fees. James & Marys, husband and wife duo ensure every job is completed to the highest standards and handled with personal care. Whether it’s a burst pipe or a new boiler installation. James & Marys Plumbernow Plumbing & Drainage will take good care of your needs.

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Reviewed by David on 1/9/2025

Louie came over to give a quote and was very helpful. He was able to complete my plumbing job there and then, and he did it quickly and cleanly. I also asked him about another minor plumbing issue I was having and he was able to solve it!

Luke Taylor Construction avatar

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

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HYC Plumbing

Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning

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

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Reviewed by Kike on 23/12/2024

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.

Ahmad Albako avatar

Ahmad Albako

Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning

General maintenance

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Reviewed by Helen on 1/5/2024

All work completed on time and on budget and to a very high standard. Couldn’t have asked for better.

Plumbing Company South West UK avatar

Plumbing Company South West UK

Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning

Plumbing Company Southwest UK A COMPANY Covers Exsternal&Internal plumbing work, From Lead replacements mains cold water service to Drainge work Internal plumbing, demestic & Heating , pipeworks, Pipefitting/Plumbing industry for 35years experance NVQ 3 certs ,

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Reviewed by Roger on 26/4/2025

Andrew Did outstanding work. Andrew assessed the situation explained what needed to be done then did it. Andrew is a highly experience plumber who enjoys doing excelent work

Heatright avatar

Heatright

Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning

Heating and plumbing specialist

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Reviewed by Aimee on 18/10/2017

Cannot recommend enough. Diagnosed the problem as a broken fan. Got the part and replaced all in the same day.

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 andrea on 2/7/2025

Brilliant work, friendly, reliable and a reasonable price too. Would highly recommend, will use again.

RATED PEOPLE LIMITED avatar

RATED PEOPLE LIMITED

Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning

Ruhulla Test

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Reviewed by New on 20/1/2023
Cymraeg Construction avatar

Cymraeg Construction

Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning

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.

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Reviewed by carole on 22/5/2025

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.

Vathi Musliu avatar

Vathi Musliu

Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning

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

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Reviewed by Mohammed on 6/7/2025

beautiful work done installing engineered wood. initially planned for installation of engineered wood by floating it. had to switch over to gluing due to the product i had got. still ended up completing 2 days worth of work in a single day. will definitely hire again.

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