SUPPORT FOR PRIVATE WASTE-WATER SYSTEMS
Your Responsibilities
The quality of a private sewage treatment system and its impact on the environment are the responsibility of the homeowner, and only the homeowner. It is a legal requirement in Scotland that any wastewater is treated before being released into the environment.
If you are the owner, you must ensure:
Your tank(s) is regularly maintained by proper technicians
Any access lids are secure and in good working order
Any drains to and from the septic tank are free-flowing and free from blockages
Importantly, SEPA requests that any off-grid treatment system apply for “an authorisation to discharge”. If you are not sure whether your property is already authorised or not, you can search the “Find authorisation Information” page on the SEPA website. If you do not find your property there, or if you require a copy of the registration form, you should check directly with SEPA by submitting a form.
If you need to register your treatment system with SEPA, first you must find out if you are a “small sewage discharge” from 9 properties or less. If yes, you can apply to register online. There is a registration fee of £190.
If you are part of a larger treatments system (10 properties or more) or if you are in a “phosphate sensitive catchment”, you need to apply for a permit instead. See this page on the SEPA website for more information on what to do next.
Issues with someone else’s system
If you notice someone else’s septic tank polluting a freshwater body, then you can contact SEPA by filling out a pollution report.
If you notice someone else’s septic tank producing an offensive smell, affecting a a drinking water supply, or polluting the coastline/sea, this falls under the remit of your local authority’s Environmental Health Department.
As a last resort, you can contact your local Citizens Advice Bureau for help putting together your own legal case.
Issues with your own system
If your tank(s) needs servicing or emptying (also known as “de-sludging”) your options are either Scottish Water or finding a private tanker contractor.
You must never enter a septic tank yourself as there are dangerous gases produced.
Scottish Water offers an online account system to help manage the services you need, such as:
Selecting and requesting the right service for your tank
Viewing your future and completed service details
Keeping your contact and tank details up to date
Selecting how you want to pay
However, Scottish Water might not be able to service your postcode, even if it is an emergency. You can quickly check (no login necessary) if your location is served at this “Service Checker” link on the Scottish Water website.
Generally, if your septic tank is backing up, draining slowly, or making abnormal sounds or smells, you should contact a septic tank service first rather than a plumber.
Drainage specialists Drainmaster Scotland, based in Perth, have published an ‘ultimate guide’ in septic tank maintenance here, including how to identify septic system problems early: https://drainmasterscotland.com/septic-tank-maintenance-tips-every-homeowner-should-know/
Looking to install, replace, or upgrade your sewage system?
If you are looking to better understand how septic tanks work and what your other options are, you can check out the Septic Tanks 101 page created specifically for the Digital Hub.
Drainmaster Scotland have also prepared a helpful webpage explaining the difference between septic tanks and sewage treatment plants, and other things that might be helpful for a homeowner to know in advance: https://drainmasterscotland.com/how-to-install-a-septic-tank-and-sewage-treatment-plant/
Scotland-based CREW (Centre for Expertise of Waters) has published a 32-page report about what your options are (settlement systems, packaged treatment plants, infiltration systems, or natural systems), how they work, and how to determine which is most suitable for your site: https://www.crew.ac.uk/sites/www.crew.ac.uk/files/publication/Guidance_on_Small_Sewage_Systems%2Blink_0.pdf
Remember: it’s ok to ask for help.
If you’re in a low mood and feel like talking to someone, there are many helplines staffed by trained people ready to listen. All below are free services and there is no limit to how many times you use them, whether it’s for yourself or for someone you’re concerned about.
The Samaritans can be contacted 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, by calling 116 123 (free from any phone.)
If you’d prefer texting, Shout offers a confidential 24/7 text service, just text SHOUT to 85258.
RSABI specifically supports people working in Scottish agriculture so they know the pressures well. They can offer daily telephone calls and financial support, just call 0808 1234 555.
Mind has friendly advisors who can help you find further support for any situation. They can be reached from 9am to 6pm Monday to Friday except bank holidays. Their number is 0300 102 1234.