In the UK, buying a house with a cesspit is different to purchasing a property connected to a public sewer system. Your domestic waste isn’t treated or discharged – it’s simply collected and held, which has certain implications. Here are the key practical, legal and financial things to be aware of when buying a house with a cesspit.
1) What is a cesspit?
A cesspit is a sealed, underground tank that collects the wastewater and sewage from a property. Unlike with septic tanks or sewage treatment plants, this isn’t treated or processed at all. And this means it can’t be safely or legally dispersed – to the ground or a waterway.
So the entire tank contents should be removed on a regular basis by a professional and compliant waste carrier. Failure to do so can result in problems like slow draining or even wastewater backing up into the property.
2) What are a cesspit owner’s responsibilities?
Because cesspits aren’t designed to discharge wastewater, they’re subject to different regulations. The General Binding Rules don’t apply and there’s no requirement for an Environment Agency permit (unless specifically told otherwise). But you need to ensure the cesspit doesn’t leak or overflow – which means establishing the condition of the tank before you buy. And for legal compliance, the required emptying must be carried out by a registered waste carrier.
3) How much will cesspit maintenance cost?
The ongoing costs of a cesspit can be significant, sometimes running to several thousand pounds annually, depending on size and activity. Frequent emptying (usually several times a year, based on household size and water usage) is a significant outlay.
Regular professional checks are required, to ensure no overflowing or leaks (which can result in pollution and the threat of legal action). And be sure to maintain accurate records and receipts of cesspit emptying, as proof of compliance if needed.
Also consider that some home insurers may treat a cesspit as more risky than a conventional system and adjust their premiums accordingly.
4) What should I ask before buying?
Prior to making an offer on any property with a cesspit, be sure to establish:
- Clear and accurate details of the cesspit’s size, location and age
- Documented proof it has been emptied regularly by a registered carrier
- Comprehensive history of any leaks, overflows, damage or other issues (including vehicle access for emptying purposes)
One of the best ways to put a lot of these concerns to bed is by arranging a homebuyer’s drainage survey.
Ready to make an offer?
If you’ve considered all the above and arranged a pre-purchase survey, you may be ready to buy a home with a cesspit. The best preparation is to be as informed as possible about the costs and responsibilities involved and to not shy away from asking tough questions.
To speak to an experienced professional about how to avoid any unpleasant surprises after you move in, please get in touch.