Don’t Panic! A Friendly Guide to Septic Tanks When Buying or Selling a Home

Buying or selling a home with a septic tank

Let’s be honest, when people hear the words ‘septic tank’, they often want to run a mile!

It can sound complicated, messy and even a little bit scary. But don’t worry, we’re here to walk you through everything you need to know, so you can handle the process with confidence. Whether you’re selling a home with a septic tank or considering buying one, the right knowledge can make all the difference.

Understanding Septic Tank Regulations

Septic tanks are a common wastewater solution for properties not connected to mains drainage, particularly in rural areas. However, there are regulations in place to ensure they function properly and don’t harm the environment. In England, the General Binding Rules set out by the Environment Agency provide guidelines that homeowners must follow. Here are the key points:

  • No Direct Discharges to Surface Water: Septic tanks can no longer discharge into rivers, streams, or lakes. If yours does, you need to upgrade to a compliant system.
  • Meet British Standards: If installed after 1 January 2015, the system must comply with BS EN 12566.
  • Keep It Maintained: Regular emptying and upkeep are essential to ensure the system continues working efficiently.
  • Discharge Limits: Your system must not release more than 5 cubic metres of waste per day.

For full details, check out the official Guidance General binding rules for small sewage discharges (SSDs) with effect from 2 October 2023 – GOV.UK 

Selling a Property with A Septic Tank

If you’re selling a home with a septic tank, don’t panic! You just need to ensure that:

  • The Buyer is Informed: You must provide written details about the system, including its location, maintenance history, and compliance with regulations.
  • It’s Compliant: A non-compliant system could cause legal headaches, so it’s best to ensure yours meets the latest rules before selling.
  • You Have Records: Buyers may request proof of maintenance and servicing, so keep a record of any work done.

Check out UKDP’s Seller Guide for more information.

Buying a Property with a Septic Tank

If you’ve found your dream home but it has a septic tank, don’t let that put you off. Here’s what to do:

  1. Get a Professional Inspection – A specialist can assess the system and highlight any issues.
  2. Check Compliance – Ensure the system follows the latest regulations to avoid costly upgrades later.
  3. Request Maintenance Records – A well-maintained septic tank can last decades, so ask for its history.
  4. Understand Your Responsibilities – Septic systems need care, so learn about routine emptying and servicing.

For an in-depth guide, visit Homebuilding & Renovating’s Tips.

With the right information, a septic tank doesn’t have to be a dealbreaker. Whether you’re buying or selling, understanding how they work and ensuring they meet regulations can make the process stress-free. If you need further guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team here at Spectrum for advice!