Septic Tanks and off Mains Drainage | Smart Drain UK

At Smart Drain UK, we specialise in septic tank inspections, upgrades, and installations to ensure your wastewater system meets the latest standards.

If your property has a septic tank that discharges to surface water (such as a ditch or stream), you may need to upgrade your system to comply with new environmental regulations. The 2020 Septic Tank Regulatory Standards require homeowners to upgrade outdated systems to prevent environmental contamination. Non-compliance could lead to fines or even enforcement action by the Environmental Agency.

Septic tank inspections

Find out if you need to upgrade your septic tank to comply with new regulations.

Septic tank installation

Septic tank system repairs and upgrades are available. We offer a full installation of compliant treatment plants.

Septic tank cleaning and servicing

Ongoing maintenance and emptying services. Regular servicing every 6–12 months

Septic tanks

Traditionally used for properties not connected to main sewer systems, septic tanks store and separate wastewater, allowing solids to settle while liquids are discharged into a soakaway or drainage field. However, septic tanks do not effectively treat wastewater, which is why many older systems no longer meet regulations.

Treatment plants

The modern alternative to septic tanks, sewage treatment plants use filtration, aeration, and pumping systems to treat wastewater before discharging it safely into the environment. These systems comply with current environmental laws and provide a long-term solution for rural properties.

• If your septic tank discharges into a stream, ditch, or watercourse, you must upgrade.
• If your septic tank system was installed before 1980, it may not meet current standards.
• If you’re selling a property with a septic tank, you must ensure compliance before the sale.

If purchasing a property without a mains drainage connection, buyers must ensure the wastewater system complies with regulations. If the existing system is non-compliant, buyers may face unexpected upgrade costs (ranging from £12,000–£40,000, depending on the system size).

If you’re viewing a property, make sure you ask the estate agents about drainage and whether the property uses a septic system, as they must disclose this information

• Schedule a septic tank survey: A professional inspection will confirm whether your system meets legal standards.
• Homebuyer drainage surveys: If purchasing a property, ensure the septic system is compliant to avoid unexpected costs.
• Smart Drain UK inspections: We provide compliance checks, system evaluations, and upgrade recommendations.

Get your septic system checked

If you’re purchasing a home with a septic system, concerned about compliance, or just need help with regular maintenance, contact our friendly team.