Sewage Treatment Plant Services

A septic tank separates solid waste from wastewater, which normally passes into a drainage field for further treatment. A sewage treatment plant uses biological treatment and mechanical components to treat wastewater to a higher standard. This can make a compliant discharge to surface water possible where site conditions and regulations allow.

It can discharge treated effluent to suitable surface water if the system and discharge meet the Environment Agency’s General Binding Rules. The plant must meet the relevant British Standard, be correctly sized and maintained, and must not cause pollution. Some locations or discharge arrangements require an environmental permit.

A new sewage treatment system requires Building Regulations approval, and planning permission may also be needed. You will not normally need an environmental permit if the discharge meets every applicable General Binding Rule. The requirements depend on the discharge route, volume, location and when the discharge began. The UKDP team is here to help.

Service the plant in line with its manufacturer’s instructions, as intervals differ between systems. Sludge must be removed before it exceeds the plant’s capacity, normally at least once a year or as directed by the manufacturer. Regular servicing also helps identify worn mechanical or electrical components before performance deteriorates.

Possibly. UKDP assesses the tank, connected drainage and discharge arrangement before recommending a solution. The findings determine whether the septic tank can remain, needs remedial work or must be replaced with a sewage treatment plant. We explain the evidence and only recommend an upgrade where the existing arrangement is unsuitable, failing or non-compliant.

That depends on the fault and the condition of the wider system. Pumps, blowers, diffusers, controls and some damaged components can often be repaired or replaced. A new plant may be more appropriate where there is serious structural damage, insufficient capacity or a system that cannot meet current discharge requirements.

A typical installation takes around five to seven working days once the design and required approvals are in place. The exact programme depends on access, excavation depth, groundwater, ground conditions and the proposed discharge arrangement. We assess these factors before confirming the installation plan and timescale.

We inspect the plant and accessible upstream and downstream pipework, assess the outlet and discharge arrangement, and use dye testing to identify rainwater cross-connections. Once the plant is empty, we complete a 360-degree structural assessment.

Most sewage treatment plants use electricity to power mechanical components that help treat wastewater. The power requirement and equipment vary between systems, so UKDP selects a plant suited to the property and explains its operating requirements. A reliable power supply is important because prolonged interruption can prevent the plant from treating wastewater as designed.

Insurance may cover sudden, insured damage to a treatment plant or its connected drainage, but not deterioration, poor maintenance or every required upgrade. UKDP can investigate the damage, provide evidence and assess the policy position. Where a valid claim is accepted, you pay only your policy excess. Our claims support is free.