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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.
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!
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
Great job! I’m really pleased with the service I received and will definitely be using again soon. Thanks
APEX PLUMBING AND PROPERTY SOLUTIONS LTD
Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning
Apex is a maintenance service company, specialising in Plumbing, Heating and General Building. Our experienced team offer a host of skills, covering many different sectors to allow us to be your one-stop shop. So whether you're a domestic customer with a plumbing and heating issue, or, a domestic client requiring general property solutions, we can tailor your needs under one roof. Our team is fully insured and with over 30 years of experience, we're the go-to company for plumbing and heating, with a quick-to-action call-out priority covering Oxfordshire, Bucks and Berkshire.
Fantastic job. Clear communication and completed the work within time. Will recommend whole heartedly.
Quick reponse North west are a newly formed company covering a range of different services in and around the north west. We have over 25 years experience gaining knowledge and expertise. We offer high quality workman ship at competitive rates.
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.
Brilliant work, friendly, reliable and a reasonable price too. Would highly recommend, will use again.
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
Pyramids is a high end building contractor based in the Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham, specialising in conversions, extensions, and full home refurbishments. We keep our practices trustworthy, honest, organised and friendly. We strive to deliver the very best in quality work for our clients. Our team have worked together for many years, which makes for a healthy atmosphere on site and around the office. We are really approachable too. Please feel free to call or send an email today so we can arrange a time to meet that works around your schedule. We will meet with you on site, listen to your ideas in detail, carry out a full site survey, discuss the building process and confirm the brief with you. Following on, we will be able to give you advice for the next steps and provide you with a detailed quotation and proposed timeline.
With very short time to get the work done they did a great job, and I was quite happy with the result.
North Wales Plumbing & Heating Ltd
Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning
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Welcome to North Wales Plumbing & Heating Ltd, your premier destination for top-notch plumbing and heating services with over 20 years of dedicated experience. Our firm commitment to customer service and unwavering focus on delivering high-quality workmanship have made us a trusted name in the North Wales region. Specializing in all aspects of plumbing and heating, our skilled professionals bring a wealth of expertise to every project, ensuring your home or business receives the attention it deserves. At North Wales Plumbing & Heating Ltd, we go beyond the basics, offering a comprehensive range of skilled trades to address all your property maintenance needs. Whether it's installation, repair, or maintenance, our team is dedicated to providing efficient, reliable solutions. We take pride in our transparent communication, integrity, and commitment to client satisfaction, making us your go-to partner for plumbing, heating, and a variety of skilled trade services. Experience the assurance of quality and professionalism with North Wales Plumbing & Heating Ltd – where expertise meets excellence.
Plumber didn't get back in the end.
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!
Goldsmith's building services for reliable tradesmen , professionalism and quality workmanship.
Did a great job measuring and putting up my blinds. Showed up on time, very reasonable price and a nice bloke
We are an interior and exterior cleaning company. We are new to Rated people but have excellent reviews on Bark. We are committed to good service and cost effective cleaning solutions.
Absolutely excellent service, transformed our conservatory. Lovely guys as well. Thoroughly recommend.
JAMES & MARYS PLUMBERNOW PLUMBING & DRAINAGE LTD
Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning
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.
Responded quickly and came out to give a quote without charge. Gave a good price, so hired and came and did the job when agreed quickly and cleanly. Also did another small job in the bathroom without charging extra. Recommended
Rimi construction limited ! Guaranteed hight quality job with the best prices .
Very happy with Rimi. He at all times came up with ideas and solutions. We had a rear garden job. Involved brick work, decking, retiling, soil work,painting, creating new landscape overall. He did it professionally and in time. He was patient with delays in material supply and kept following up. Overall quite pleased with the end result
Warmserve Services Ltd is a local company offering a wide range of heating, plumbing and electrical services that was founded in 2011. We are a team of 24 heating engineers/plumbers and 12 electricians, serving customers in all SA & CF postcodes. We are small enough to offer a personal service but large enough to carry out work quickly and efficiently. We operate a 24 hour service for emergencies for all customers domestic and commercial. The company is run from our office in Llansamlet, Swansea where we have a small admin team of 8 that deal with all enquiries and manage all jobs. Our dedication to customer satisfaction and quality work has seen the business grow from one man in a van to a recognised and respected heating and electrical company in South Wales which covers over 70% of heating home emergency claims. Warmserve covers all plumbing and mechanical services for domestic & commercial, Gas, LPG, Oil, Solid Fuel, Renewables, Air Conditioning, Electrical, Drainage, Bathroom Installations and plumbing maintenance. Warmserve are able to accept credit & debit cards and also finance. Warmserve is registered with accreditation’s: Gas Safe Register OFTEC NICEIC HETAS REFCOM F-Gas TrustMark Safe Contractor Which? approved
Very quick response to my initial post although identifying the probable source of the leak took some time. After I accepted their quotation for remediation there was quite a wait for the bathroom team to become available. When work started the team were knowledgeable, explaining the various issues that they encountered and offering sensible solutions. The work was finished in 2 days and everything was left clean and tidy. I thoroughly recommend this company.
have been a plumber for over 25 years All domestic plumbing and Heating unvented and vented systums undertaken. Advice is free over the phone or internet.
Good clean workman, tidy and excellent workmanship. Would use again.
We are a groundwork’s and building company with 20 years experience
Jay and his team connected our garden house to the water supply and sewer network. They worked fast and did a very good job. Our terrace looks better now than before! The quote was honest for the amount of work. I really recommend them.
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
Newport Building & Home Improvements
Septic Tanks - Installation / Emptying / Cleaning
We are a family run business with experience in all aspects of Building, roofing & home improvements. working around Newport and the surrounding area's. We provide a fast and professional service at competitive rates. No job too small, call now for a free quotation, partner to ( shield roofing specialists south wales)
Responded quickly and all fixed within a few hours of first contact. Quick efficient and friendly
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.
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!
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