Welcome to Pro Drainage Group, the United Kingdom’s prime specialists in domestic and commercial sewage treatment plants. We’re proud to be renowned as the country’s foremost authority in installing, repairing, and maintaining all kinds of sewage treatment plants.
Buying a home is one of the most exciting and stressful times in life. For many properties in rural or semi rural areas across the UK, connecting to the mains sewer simply is not an option. Instead, the property relies on a septic tank or a sewage treatment plant. While this is common and perfectly acceptable, the law surrounding these systems has changed in recent years.
If you are buying a house with an old septic tank that discharges into a field, it is important to know your legal responsibilities. Ignoring the issue could leave you facing expensive upgrades, enforcement action, or even problems when you come to sell the property in the future.
This guide will explain what the law says, what steps buyers must take, and how solutions like homebuyer septic tank surveys, soakaway installation, and modern sewage treatment plants can make the process easier.
Learn MoreA septic tank collects and partially treats wastewater before releasing it into the ground. Older tanks were often built without today’s environmental standards in mind. Some allow untreated wastewater to flow directly into fields, streams, or ditches. This is now illegal under the Environment Agency’s General Binding Rules.
A properly designed drainage field or soakaway installation allows wastewater to filter naturally through the soil. This protects groundwater, prevents pollution, and ensures compliance with the law. If a system discharges directly into land or water, it is considered non compliant and must be upgraded.
Get in TouchSince January 2020, the rules around septic tanks have been much stricter. The key points are:
Septic tanks cannot discharge directly into rivers, streams, ditches, or open land
Wastewater must be treated through a drainage field or soakaway that meets design standards
The property owner is legally responsible for ensuring the system is compliant
If a system does not meet these standards, the Environment Agency can issue an enforcement notice. Homeowners can also face fines and be required to replace or upgrade the system immediately.
Book in TodayModern sewage treatment plants offer a higher level of wastewater treatment than traditional septic tanks. They use both mechanical and biological processes to clean the effluent before it is discharged.
Benefits include:
Full compliance with sewage treatment plant regulations
Reduced risk of pollution and contamination
A more reliable and long term solution that protects property value
Although installing a sewage treatment plant can be more expensive than repairing an old septic tank, it often represents the most cost effective option in the long run.
Contact us TodayIn Dorset and other rural parts of the UK, many homes still rely on off mains drainage. This makes it especially important to work with experienced local specialists who understand the soil conditions and planning requirements.
A professional septic soakaway installation in Dorset ensures the system works effectively for the property and meets the required standards. Likewise, choosing skilled sewage treatment plant installers near you guarantees compliance and gives peace of mind that the system is built to last.
Book in TodayWhen it comes to upgrading the system, buyers can choose between national drainage franchise companies and independent local installers.
Franchise providers may have nationwide coverage and a recognised brand, but their prices are often higher. Local sewage treatment plant installers, on the other hand, may offer more competitive rates, local expertise, and a more personal service.
Whichever route you choose, make sure the installers are experienced, properly qualified, and fully aware of the latest wastewater treatment plant regulations.
Book in TodayBuying a property with a septic tank does not need to be stressful, but you must understand the law. If the system is old and discharges into a field, it is your responsibility as the buyer to ensure compliance. By commissioning a survey, negotiating fairly with the seller, and planning the right upgrades, you can protect both your investment and the environment.
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