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Cesspit/cesspool repairs, emptying & upgrades

ASL Limited provide comprehensive cesspit/cesspool servicing, emptying and installation services.

Cesspits (also known as cesspools) can vary in different shapes and sizes and are installed underground. Newer cesspools typically consist of a fibreglass holding tank with an inlet, whereas older tanks are usually made of brick or metal.

Our engineers offer emptying and maintenance services for your cesspit/cesspool, as well as offering advice to help you decide on the best solution for you.

If possible, we would advise against installing a new cesspit, as there are far more cost-effective alternatives, such as main sewer connections, septic tanks and sewage treatment plant; however there are some situations where this may be the only available option and we will make sure you have the cesspit to suit you and your household needs.

We know from experience that the phrase 'septic tank' is used as a general term for a private sewage system, regardless of whether it is actually a cesspit/cesspool, a septic tank or a treatment plant. If you are unsure of the differences please take a look at our blog articles entitled 'What’s the difference between cesspits and septic tanks?' and 'What is a cesspit?'

A cross section diagram of a cesspool underground.
This is a cross-section diagram of a cesspool underground. 

If you have an existing cesspit/cesspool

You do not have to comply with the General Binding Rules or apply for a permit.

You must maintain your cesspit and make sure it:

  • Is emptied regularly (for example, once a month) by a registered waste carrier like ASL Limited.
  • Does not leak or overflow causing pollution.

The Environment Agency or your local council can make you repair or replace your cesspit if it’s in poor condition.

If you install a new cesspit/cesspool

You must:

Cesspit services we provide include:

Cesspit installation

Our engineers can install cesspits in both domestic and commercial properties. Again, we would only recommend installation if your property does not have a ditch to discharge into or is too far away from a mains sewer.

System upgrades

We can recommend upgrading your cesspit/cesspool to a septic tank, sewage treatment plant or connecting it to a mains sewer. A main sewer connection would save you money and hassle when it comes to maintenance and emptying.

Tank emptying service

We provide regular cesspit emptying services across several areas in the South of England (see our areas covered page for further details).

Tank surveys

We carry our cesspit surveys to ensure:

  • Your cesspit is functioning normally and to identify if any problems are present.
  • No rainwater is entering the system.
  • An overall assessment of the tank’s functionality and inspecting the condition of the lids, covers and risers.

We will provide you with a full report detailing any comments or problems we have found during our maintenance survey.

 

You may want to consider alternative systems

Today, cesspit/cesspool installation is often seen as a last resort or when a ‘consent to discharge’ is refused or not possible. A cesspit is designed for containment only and requires emptying regularly, which varies depending on its usage. In contrast to septic tanks and sewage treatment plants, there is no processing or treatment involved.

If you currently have a cesspit/cesspool installed, ASL can regularly visit your premises to empty the tank and ensure that everything is in good working order.

Selling your property with a cesspit

If you ever decide to sell your property, a cesspit, in our professional opinion, can devalue a property by as much as £20,000 as it is the least favourable sewage system to have. If you are installing a new waste management system, a septic tank or treatment plant may be a more suitable option.

We have an article detailing the information you’re legally required to share about your private sewage system when selling your house if you’re looking to sell.

Unsure which waste management system to go for?

We can provide help and advice on the following:

  • We will provide you with the best system suitable for your requirements.
  • Our services include the design, installation, maintenance and repairs of your private sewage system.
  • We service both domestic and commercial properties.

Contact ASL Limited for cesspit/cesspool waste management and emptying

Although installing a cesspool is still a viable option, we would normally advise against it, as other options are easier to install and maintain. We can discuss your options and help you make the most cost-effective decision regarding your waste management options.

Understanding cesspits/cesspools

You can read about cesspools and get a full understanding of how they work in our blog entitled 'What is a cesspit?'

For clarity on the other private sewage systems available, we also have blog articles entitled:

'What is a septic tank?'

'What is a treatment plant?'

Don’t delay we can help you today!

Call 0800 181 684 for all your drainage needs.

Our HQ is based in Guildford, but we cover the whole of Surrey, Parts of Berkshire, Hampshire, West Sussex and South West London.

See the map below or our 'areas covered page' for our services reach and use our postcode checker.

Need sewage assistance?


Send us a message below and, we will get back to you ASAP.
 
Does the property have a private sewage system?
(eg. a cesspit, septic tank or treatment plant)
Are you happy for us to contact you with information in the future?
ASL Limited clears the majority of blocked drains within half an hour.
ASL Limited are experts in all aspects of drainage

Available for emergency blocked drain callouts as well as routine appointments. Covering the whole of Surrey and a 25 mile radius in the surrounding counties.

ASL Limited Certifications

Our engineers have a variety of certifications, as follows:-

  • New Roads & Street Works
  • EUSR Water Hygiene
  • CSCS
  • NPORS Excavator & Dumper
  • Confined Space

We are also Safecontractor approved, as well as being part of Which Trusted Traders and Check-A-Trade.