Septic Tanks
The council has a pre-paid emptying service for septic tank/cesspool emptying. The current charge is £102 per load, up to 1000 gallons. The current charge for two loads is £179. Once payment is received and processed, we aim to empty within seven working days.
If an appointment is required please contact our environment team by phoning 01799 510510 or emailing wasteaware@uttlesford.gov.uk. Usually the emptying takes place before 1pm.
The service is for emptying only, and we are unable to carry out any maintenance, nor do we have an emergency service. If however you should have a problem please telephone 01799 510370 and we will do our best to assist.
Advice to householders
A seven point guide to a more trouble-free operation
1 Understand how the system works
Most systems involve settlement by gravity, the action of micro-organisms and dispersion of the effluent into the sub-soil.
2 Locate all manholes, pipes and tanks
Knowledge of the position on the system within the garden will prevent unnecessary damage to pipe work and aid emptying and maintenance.
3 Check the level of sludge at regular intervals
At least three times a year dip the tank to check the level of sludge in the chambers because if this gets into the sub-soil drains they will loose their porosity.
4 Arrange emptying of the sludge often enough to prevent damage to the land drainage system.
Determine emptying frequency on sludge levels and NOT on whether the system is blocked and unable to work. Once the sludge has entered and land drains it is very difficult to regain their porosity. It is recommended that tanks are emptied at least annually.
5 Prevent unnecessary surface water gaining access to the system.
Divert any rain water into a separate soakaway or ditch as this clean water requires no treatment and may overload the system. Check the walls of the tank during emptying for ground water penetration and carry out remedial works if required.
6 Keep harmful chemicals out of the system as far as possible.
The bacteria in your tank are helping to purify the sewage and if they are killed be excessive use of bleach or other bactericides the system will break down. Keep the use of detergents to a minimum as these chemicals impair the sedimentation process.
7 Consider the affects on the system from any alterations to your premises.
Additional sanitary fitments, washing machines and dishwashers will inevitably result in extra sludge and in turn to more frequent emptying. Extensions, garages etc must not prevent the emptying tanker getting to within 200 feet on the system.
The following two documents provide further information related to sewage treatment systems: