At Proseptic, we know that sewage treatment can often cause a lot of questions and with these questions can come worry for homeowners. Therefore, we’ve put together a list of the most frequently asked drainage questions along with their answers.

Your Drainage Questions Answered…

What is off mains or independent drainage?

Wastewater is usually taken away from our properties to a mains sewer. However, some properties in the UK aren’t connected to a mains sewer due to their location. Therefore, these properties would require off mains or independent sewage treatment by an off mains drainage specialists.

What are the types of off mains drainage?

There are three main types of off mains drainage, including: Septic Tanks, Cesspits and Sewage Treatment Plants.

What type of sewage treatment system do I need?

There’s no easy answer to this one, we’re afraid. It largely depends on the size of your property and your drainage needs. Our engineers can conduct an on site survey to determine which drainage system would be best for you.

How much maintenance does off mains drainage require?

Off mains drainage requires a lot less maintenance than you may initially think. Once installed, septic tanks or sewage treatment plants are relatively low maintenance and problems rarely occur.

However, tanks must me emptied roughly once a year and an annual service is recommended to avoid any problems and keep your drainage system running as safely as possible.

What are the latest septic tank regulations?

Septic tank regulations changed in January 2020. It is now forbidden for septic tanks to train into an open watercourse. Instead, septic tank effluent must drain into a drainage field or soakaway. You can find out more on this and how to comply here.

What are the signs of septic tank problems?

Septic tank problems are rare, however, there are some tell-tale signs, and, if you notice any of these it’s important to take action sooner rather than later to avoid problems getting worse. Some signs to look out for include: unusual gurgling sounds coming from your septic tank or drains, foul smelling drains, damp, boggy patches of ground near your septic tank or your septic tank needing emptying more than usual. You can find out more information on septic tank problems and what to do about them here.

What should I do if I notice problems with my drainage system?

As soon as you notice problems with your drainage system, however small, it’s vital that you contact an expert and have the problem looked at as soon as possible. Our engineers can conduct a survey of your system using our CCTV equipment to diagnose the problem and offer appropriate solutions. From here we can conduct a repair or replacement of your system where necessary.

What do I need to do if I’m buying a house with a septic tank?

Off mains drainage can put prospective buyers off buying their new home. However, it needn’t. Before purchasing, make sure you ask to take a look at the latest documentation for the property’s drainage system. This way, you’ll know the condition of the system and what exactly you’re inheriting. If the current homeowner can’t provide this then you can arrange for a home buyer’s survey to be completed.

If you still have questions around any aspect of sewage treatment, or are concerned about your drainage system, please don’t hesitate to contact our team. Alternatively, to see some frequently asked drainage questions answered in more detail, head on over to our blog.