These are all systems used to deal with wastewater at properties that are not connected to the main sewer:

Septic Tank - A septic tank separates solid waste from wastewater. The solids stay in the tank and the liquid flows out into a drainage field in the ground where it naturally filters through the soil.

Sewage Treatment Plant - This is a more advanced system that treats wastewater using air and bacteria to clean it before it leaves the unit. The treated water can usually discharge into a watercourse or Drainage Field.

Cess Pit (Cesspool) - A sealed tank that simply stores wastewater. It does not treat the waste, so it must be emptied regularly by a tanker.

In most cases, no. Under current regulations, Septic Tanks are generally not allowed to discharge directly into a river, stream, or ditch.

If a property currently has this type of discharge, it may need to be upgraded to a Sewage Treatment Plant or have a Drainage Field installed to meet the regulations.

The General Binding Rules are guidelines set by the Environment Agency. They explain how Septic Tanks and Sewage Treatment Plants must be installed and maintained to prevent pollution.

They cover things such as:

• Where systems can discharge

• How systems should be maintained

• When upgrades may be required

You can find the official guidance on the UK Government website (gov.uk) by searching for General Binding Rules for Small Sewage Discharges.

This depends on the type of system:

• Septic Tanks - Usually emptied once a year

• Sewage Treatment Plants - Typically serviced once a year and emptied when required

• Cess Pits - May need emptying every few weeks or months, depending on usage

Regular maintenance helps prevent blockages, smells, and system failures.

Most Pre-Purchase Surveys take around 4 hours, depending on the size of the system and how easy it is to access the equipment.

If the system is buried or difficult to locate, it may take slightly longer.

During the survey, our engineer will:

• Locate the off-mains system

• Inspect the tank or treatment plant

• Check the condition of the pipework and drainage field

• Confirm where the system discharges

• Take photographs, videos and record findings

This helps us assess the condition of the system and whether it meets current regulations.

In some cases, small excavations may be needed to access parts of the system or inspect the Drainage Field.

If excavation is required, our engineer will keep this minimal, safe, reinstate the area  and will discuss it with you beforehand where possible.

Our engineers may bring equipment such as:

• CCTV inspection camera

• Go Pro to survey the condition of the tank

• Hand tools for small excavations

• Jetting equipment to clean drains if required

This equipment helps us inspect the system properly and identify any potential issues.

Our engineer will usually arrive in a 3.5T Auger branded service van that carries the necessary inspection equipment.

These vehicles are similar in size to a typical tradesperson’s van and do not require large access areas.

After the survey, you will receive a report outlining our findings. This typically includes:

• A summary of the system type, condition of the system and its compliance with regulations

• Photographs & CCTV stills from the inspection

• Recommendations for repairs or upgrades if needed

This report can help you understand the condition of the system and its compliance before purchasing the property.

You will usually receive the report within 5 working days after the visit.

If additional information or checks are required, it may take slightly longer.

Auger can install or upgrade a range of off-mains systems, including:

• Full system replacements

• Sewage Treatment Plants

• Septic Tanks

• Cess Pits

• Drainage Fields or Soakaways

• Drainage Mounds

Our team will recommend the most suitable system based on the property and current regulations.

Yes. If the survey identifies problems, Auger can usually provide repair or replacement options.

We can also provide quotations and advice on the best solution to bring the system up to current standards.

In most cases, the tank does not need to be fully emptied prior to Auger arriving.

Auger will attend with a Vac Tanker to empty the tank to a satisfactory level for the survey of the tank to take place.