Legislation
CIRIA technical note 146 reported that several thousand septic tank
soakaways fail each year
Part H2 of the 2000 Building Regulations state that "Septic tank
effluent can be harmful". Recent reports issued by the DTLR and CIRIA
all point out that septic tank soakaways are a major cause of failure.
In all cases a treatment plant should be considered ahead of a septic
tank.
It is vital to address off-mains drainage issues as early as possible in your
project, in fact your evaluation of the site’s drainage characteristics
should influence your assessment of the plot’s overall development
potential. You should also draw on local expertise and liaise with the
relevant authorities before submitting a planning application. Remember
too that individual sites can vary greatly, even within a small geographical
area.
Planners
These consult with the Environment Agency as well as Environmental Health
and Building Control when preparing planning.
Environmental Regulator
The Environment Agency
(EA) in England & Wales,
Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) in Scotland,
Department of Environment (DoE NI) in Northern Ireland,
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the Republic of Ireland;
are responsible for protecting national water resources and issue Consents
to Discharge where appropriate.
Building Control
Responsible for ensuring compliance with the drainage requirements
of the Building Regulations.
Environmental Health
Usually consulted by Planning and Building Control before approvals are
issued.
Mortgage Providers
May need to be satisfied that the property has a sound and sustainable
drainage system.
Construction Insurers
Organisations such as NHBC will provide a warranty on dwellings
as long as the installation of the drainage system is in accordance
with their Standards. Such insurance is often a prerequisite for successful
mortgage applications.
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