Looking after our waterways has never been so critical – it’s something we’re extremely passionate about here at Cotterill Civils. Only last week we were shocked to hear that all English rivers failed to meet the Environment Agency’s quality tests for pollution. The data revealed that just 14% of English rivers are of good ecological
Replacement of a sewage system that had gone wrong
We’ve been installing sewage systems for over 25 years and take great pride in our work. Unfortunately, whilst most contractors can be trusted to do a good job, this isn’t always the case. Every so often, we get called out to inspect sewage systems that are a potential health hazard or no longer work simply
Dos and Don’ts of Sewage Treatment Plants and Septic Tanks
A sewage treatment plant or septic tank is a big investment so you want to make sure you look after it. Here’s some handy tips on the do’s and don’t when it comes to looking after your sewage treatment solution: Do’s DO stick to the same brands when using cleaning products as your unit will
How to check whether your septic tank is polluting a local watercourse?
At the start of 2020 new regulations for septic tanks came into force that will affect properties across England and Wales. The new legislation states that it is now illegal for a septic tank to discharge directly to surface water, such as a river, ditch or stream. But how can you tell if your septic tank
What are the risks of not being compliant with the latest septic tank regulations?
New regulations for septic tanks in England and Wales came into force at the start of 2020 and with more than a million UK properties using an off-mains drainage system, this new legislation will have a big impact. But what are the consequences of not complying with the new legislation? Here’s what we found out…
Are you compliant with the new septic tank regulations?
Brand new legislation for septic tanks in England and Wales came into force on January 1st, which means any household or business that does not comply now risks significant fines from the Environment Agency (EA). With more than a million UK properties having no option but to use an off-mains drainage system to deal with
Why is it important to service your sewage treatment plant or septic tank?
Sewage treatment plants, septic tanks and cesspools cost a lot of money to install so you want to get the best return on investment. Also, as an owner of one of these systems, you have a legal duty of care to look after it. Otherwise you could risk costly problems arising in the future. Why
What could go wrong with your sewage treatment solution?
Your sewage treatment system is a big investment so you want to ensure you get the right system and that it will last. Especially when you consider that the following horrors could await… 1. £100,000 fine if your system is not compliant With new rules on the way – all sewage effluent discharges are subject
How to undertake a Trial Site Assessment Hole?
The first test that you should carry out when considering installing a septic tank or soakaway is the trial site assessment hole (TSAH). Whilst many believe they need to do a percolation test first, this is in fact pointless because if the TSAH test fails you will not be allowed to install a soakaway regardless.
How to establish if you are in a groundwater source protection zone?
Looking to install a soakaway or septic tank? Then one of the things you will need to consider is how close you are to groundwater sources and whether you are in a groundwater protection zone. If you find you are within one of these zones, you may be refused the right to install. What is