As of January 2020, the Environment Agency’s septic tank regulations state that if you have a septic tank that directly discharges to surface water, you will be required to replace or upgrade to a full sewage treatment plant.
In addition, if you are considering selling or buying a property, a home drain survey is now a legal requirement of the sales process. A report is required to confirm the structural status and compliance of all properties with off mains sewage. If the system is not compliant, then the necessary action needs to be agreed between the buyer and seller, to ensure that the system conforms and the sale of the property can be completed.
Summary of changes to septic tank regulations in 2020
The 2020 update to the septic tank regulations mean that it is now an illegal offence to discharge waste from a septic tank into ditches, streams, canals, rivers, surface water drains or any other type of water-course. You must have your septic tank checked & maintained regularly in line with the manufacturer’s instructions.
These new Environmental Agency rules are complex and additional information can be found here. Alternatively, if you have any questions, you can get in touch with our team, who will be happy to answer them.
How do I know if my septic tank meets the 2020 regulations?
The most effective way to find out if your drain system is compliant is to have a drain survey completed by a qualified engineer. The survey will carry out an extensive inspection of the tank and all the pipework using CCTV technology, and you will be provided with a comprehensive report of the findings.
At Owls Hall Environmental, we have a dedicated home drain survey team who will arrange and complete your survey, produce your report, and explain in detail what your report means. If your drain system requires any maintenance repairs or new parts, our team will clarify this and confirm any costs involved to complete the work. Owls Hall aims to complete your survey and provide you with a report within seven days of your initial contact.
How can I arrange a home drain survey?
Simply contact our home drain survey team by telephone 01371 504 045 or email sales@owlshall.co.uk or complete our online form. They will be happy to arrange a convenient time for our engineer to visit and complete your home drain survey.