How we can help you with a septic tank…
How does a septic tank work?
A septic tank is installed underground to collect sewage from a property that is not connected to the public sewer network. Once in the septic tank, sewage separates naturally: solids settle to the bottom, fats form a scum on top, and the relatively clear effluent liquid stays in the middle.
From there, the liquid discharges to ground from the tank, leaving natural bacteria to process the solids into sludge. The sludge waste needs to be removed from the tank by a specialist operator at intervals according to tank capacity and volume of wastewater.
New septic tank legislation
Previously, wastewater from a septic tank has been allowed to run straight into a surface waterway, such as a river or stream. However the rules changed in January 2015:
- From 1 January 2015, new installations of private sewer systems (septic tanks) must not discharge directly to a watercourse.
- By 1 January 2020, all existing septic tank installations must either output to a drainage field or be replaced by a sewage treatment plant (also known as a package treatment plant).
- But, if you plan to sell the property before 1 January 2020, you have to carry out the replacement or create a drainage field before you sell.
Responsibility for septic tanks
If you are the person responsible for a septic tank — known as ‘the operator’ — there are rules you need to follow.
These guidelines, set by the Environment Agency, cover everything from the way a septic tank works, to the British Standards in force, correct installation, discharging to ground, pollution implications, emptying, maintenance and when you need a permit.
You will find full details of the general binding rules on the government website.