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When planning an extension, garage, patio, or even a garden project, one question often arises: can you build over a drainage field? The short answer is no — and for very good reasons. A drainage field, sometimes called a soakaway, is a vital part of your home’s sewage treatment system. It ensures wastewater is safely filtered and dispersed back into the ground without harming your property, your health, or the environment.
Unfortunately, many homeowners see the open patch of land where their drainage field sits and think it’s wasted space that could be used more practically. But building on top of it is never a good idea. Not only can it cause significant damage to your home’s sewage system, but it can also leave you facing environmental penalties and expensive repair bills.
In this blog, we’ll explore what a drainage field is, why it’s so important, the risks of building over it, and the alternatives available to homeowners across Dorset, Bournemouth, Andover, Bath, Wimborne, Ferndown, Bridport, Corfe Mullen, and Corfe Castle.
Contact usA drainage field is an underground network of perforated pipes laid in trenches filled with gravel. These pipes are connected to your septic tank or sewage treatment plant, and their purpose is to slowly release treated wastewater into the soil. The soil then acts as a natural filter, removing any remaining bacteria before the water re-enters the groundwater system.
Without a drainage field, wastewater would have no safe outlet and could overflow, causing flooding or pollution. In rural areas like Ferndown, Wimborne, and Corfe Castle, where properties aren’t usually connected to the mains sewer, a drainage field is essential for effective sewage disposal.
It’s important to note that a drainage field is not the same as a soakaway pit used for rainwater. A sewage soakaway is specifically designed for wastewater and must meet sewage treatment plant regulations. Attempting a DIY solution can create a health hazard, which is why professional soakaway installation UK services are so important.
Book in TodayThe sewage treatment plant regulations in the UK are there to protect both homeowners and the environment. The Environment Agency makes it clear that:
Drainage fields must not discharge directly into watercourses.
They should be designed to allow natural filtration into the soil.
They must remain free from buildings, driveways, or heavy landscaping.
If you’re buying a property with a septic tank or sewage treatment plant, it’s crucial to arrange a homebuyer septic tank survey. Many older systems in places like Bath, Andover, and Corfe Mullen were installed decades ago and no longer meet today’s wastewater treatment plant regulations. A survey ensures you’re not caught out by costly upgrades or compliance issues after purchase.
Get in TouchIf your renovation dreams clash with the location of your drainage system, don’t worry — there are better options than simply building over it.
Redesign Your Project: Sometimes the simplest solution is to move your extension or patio a few metres away. A professional drainage survey can map out the boundaries of your field so you can plan accordingly.
Relocate the Drainage Field: If space allows, a new soakaway installation Dorset can be designed and installed in a different part of your garden. Modern systems often require less land, making them easier to integrate into your property.
Upgrade to a New Sewage Treatment Plant: Older septic systems take up more space and are less efficient. Installing a compact sewage treatment plant may reduce the need for a large drainage field altogether.
Consult Experts: Professional sewage treatment plant installers near me can recommend the best solution for your property, ensuring it meets wastewater treatment plant regulations and avoids future problems.
Attempting to design or move a drainage field without professional help is never a good idea. Here’s why hiring experts like Pro Sewage Treatment is the best option:
Compliance: Our team ensures all installations meet the latest sewage treatment plant regulations.
Expertise: From drainage fields to full sewage treatment plants, we provide tailored solutions for every property.
Peace of Mind: With a professional installation, you won’t need to worry about enforcement notices or environmental risks.
Local Knowledge: We cover Bournemouth, Andover, Bath, Wimborne, Ferndown, Bridport, Corfe Mullen, and Corfe Castle, so we understand the soil types and regulatory requirements specific to your area.
Whether you need a homebuyer septic tank survey or a complete septic soakaway installation Dorset, choosing experienced installers is the key to long-term success.
Learn More TodaySo, can you build over a drainage field? Absolutely not. Your drainage field is a critical part of your sewage treatment system, and covering it will cause damage, pollution, and legal issues.
If you’re considering a home improvement project in Dorset, Bournemouth, Andover, Bath, Wimborne, Ferndown, Bridport, Corfe Mullen, or Corfe Castle, it’s essential to understand the role of your drainage field before you start digging foundations.
Contact Pro Sewage Treatment today for expert advice, professional surveys, and reliable installations. From soakaway installation Dorset to sewage treatment plants, we’ll help you stay compliant, protect your property, and avoid costly mistakes.
Get in Touch Today