Environment Agency Compliance Site Visit - Misidentified Septic Tank System
We were instructed to complete an Environment Agency compliant site visit for a property requiring compliance with the 2020 binding rules.
The report provided:
Site visit and external visual inspection
Report on drainage system layout and condition
Costings for required investigations (CCTV drainage survey)
Work schedule and requirements for compliance with binding rules
Specifications to enable client to obtain quotations for any required upgrade work
EA permit requirements and documentation guidance
The property owner reported:
No issues with the septic tank
No problems with waste leaving the property
Tank regularly emptied by local contractor
Site Findings:
Location identified as "septic tank": Concrete slab removed - distribution manhole to soakaway found instead. Full of solid waste, no visible liquid.
Location identified as "inlet manhole": Change of direction manhole, blocked, surcharged with sewage. Liquid trickling into garden border.
Actual septic tank location: Identified elsewhere on property. Full of grease and debris. Outlet pipework blocked.
Soakaway: Partially blocked.
Waste carrier: Had been emptying distribution manhole, not septic tank.
Discharge: System discharging to watercourse.
Report Conclusion
The system was NOT compliant with Environment Agency binding rules. Upgrade required with direct discharge to watercourse under appropriate permit.
Client instructed to obtain quotations for compliant system upgrade.
If you require a home owners visual drainage survey contact us here. Costs start at £60.00 (+VAT). Give the team a call on 01270 442442 and we can get you booked in and let you know what’s going on with your drainage!
