EA Septic Tank Rules: What Every Property Owner Needs to Know
If your property uses a septic tank, it must comply with the Environment Agency’s septic tank rules — known as the General Binding Rules. These regulations were introduced to protect the environment, and they now play a major role in property sales, surveys, and mortgage approvals.
At Drain and Tank Solutions SW, we help homeowners, solicitors, and surveyors across the South West ensure septic systems meet all EA requirements.
📄 The Key EA Septic Tank Rules
As of 1 January 2020, septic tanks must:
Not discharge directly to surface water (e.g. rivers, streams, ditches)
Be properly maintained and de-sludged regularly
Be installed to approved standards (typically BS EN12566)
Avoid pollution or harm to public health
Meet capacity and siting guidelines
🛑 “If your tank discharges to a watercourse, you must upgrade to a treatment plant or redirect to a drainage field — or risk enforcement action.”
⚖️ Legal & Transactional Impact
Failure to comply with EA rules can lead to:
Refused mortgages
Surveyors flagging the system
Sales being paused or renegotiated
Legal liability for pollution
Potential Environment Agency enforcement
🛠️ How We Help You Comply
We offer:
Septic tank inspections and discharge assessments
Full compliance reports for conveyancing
System upgrades (e.g. to treatment plants)
Re-routing drainage to soakaways
Advice on exemptions and EA permit applications
📍 Local, Professional Support You Can Trust
We understand the unique challenges of septic systems across Devon, Cornwall, and the wider South West — from old stone cottages to coastal properties and farms.
📞 Unsure If You Comply? We Can Help.
Don’t risk your property deal or future enforcement. Get your system checked now.
📞 +44 7746 735270
📧 hello@drainandtanksolutionssw.com
Drain and Tank Solutions SW – Your local experts in Environment Agency septic tank compliance.
