Owning a home with a septic tank is fairly common in rural or suburban areas of the UK, where connections to the mains sewer system aren’t readily available. While it might seem daunting to buy a house with a septic tank if you haven’t done it before, be assured that a septic tank can be a reliable and environmentally friendly solution for wastewater treatment. That being said, it’s really important for you to understand the intricacies and potential challenges of having a property with a septic before taking the plunge and making a purchase.
The Basics of Septic Tanks
A septic tank is an underground tank that separates solid waste from liquid waste. This waste is generally from toilets and other household drains and sinks, flowing through pipes into the septic tank. The solid waste, or sludge, settles to the bottom of the tank, while the liquid waste (or effluent) flows into a drain field. The drain field disperses the effluent into the soil, where it is naturally filtered.
The Pros and Cons of Houses with Septic Tanks
While septic tanks offer several advantages, they also come with certain drawbacks. In general though, they are a fantastic alternative to main sewer connection for remote properties or commercial buildings.
Pros
- Environmental Friendliness
Septic tanks are designed to treat wastewater naturally, reducing overall environmental impact. - Independence
You’re not reliant on the local sewage system, which can be advantageous in rural areas where the systems are not as reliable. - Potential Cost Savings
In some cases, owning a septic tank can be more cost-effective than being connected to a mains sewer, especially in terms of water bills, which are going up year-on-year these days.
Cons
- Maintenance Costs
Septic tanks require regular maintenance, including emptying and inspection, which can incur costs. As an experienced wastewater company, Owls Hall Environmental offers septic tank emptying, servicing and repairs. - Potential for Issues
If not properly maintained, septic tanks can lead to issues like backups, overflows and foul odours. You can read our guide on the importance of septic tank servicing to prevent such issues arising. - Impact on Property Value
While a well-maintained septic tank shouldn’t significantly impact property value, a poorly maintained one could deter potential buyers. If you are considering buying a house with a neglected septic tank, you should raise this when discussing price as you will incur costs to get it back running properly.
Key Things To Consider When Buying a House with a Septic Tank
When considering a property with a septic tank, several key factors should be evaluated:
- Age and Condition
Older tanks may require more frequent maintenance and could be more prone to issues. A professional inspection can assess the tank’s condition and identify any potential problems. - Size and Capacity
The tank should be adequately sized to handle the household’s wastewater. Consider the amount of peoples in your family, as well as future plans for expansion or additional bathrooms, as these may impact the tank’s capacity. - Drainage Field Condition
The drainage field, where treated wastewater is dispersed into the soil, should be in good condition. Factors like soil type, groundwater levels and tree roots can affect its performance. - Maintenance Records
Request maintenance records to verify that the tank has been pumped regularly and inspected for any issues. If you do end up purchasing the house, remember to keep records of all septic tank maintenance undertaken. - Local Regulations
Familiarise yourself with local regulations regarding septic tank systems, including permit requirements, inspections and restrictions on what can be flushed down the toilet. - Shared Septic Systems
If you’re considering a property with a shared septic system, understand the shared responsibilities for maintenance and costs, as well as potential conflicts with neighbours. It should be clearly stated in legal document during the buying process who is responsible for what in regards to the shared septic tank. - Non-Compliant or Abandoned Septic Tanks
Be aware of the potential legal and environmental risks associated with non-compliant or abandoned septic tanks. Repair costs can be significant. Installation of a new septic tank may be required.
Tips for Buying a House with a Septic Tank
There are several things we recommend you do before signing to buy a house with a septic tank. Some may incur costs, but they will be worth it in the long run to avoid any more costly issues.
- Professional Inspection
Hire a qualified inspector to assess the septic system’s condition. We at Owls Hall are experienced in home buyer septic tank surveys and offer competitive rates. - Ask the Seller Questions
Don’t hesitate to ask the seller about the septic system’s history, maintenance and any issues they have had in living in a property reliant on a septic tank. - Review Maintenance Records
Request detailed maintenance records to understand the system’s history. - Consider Future Costs
Factor in potential maintenance costs, such as pumping and repairs, into your overall living budget for the future. - Consult with a Septic Tank Professional
Seek advice from a septic tank professional to gain a better understanding of the system and its needs. You are more than welcome to contact our in-house septic tank experts who will be more than happy to help in this regard.