Sewage Treatment Plants, Compliant and Environmental

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As an alternative to outdated septic tanks, sewage treatment plants (STPs) are now the modern, compliant, and eco-friendly solution for off-mains wastewater treatment. 

At S&S Drainage Ltd., we specialise in helping homeowners replace non-compliant septic systems with properly installed sewage treatment plants that meet current regulations and safeguard both property value and the environment.

Why Replace Your Septic Tank with an STP?

Since 1 January 2020, septic tanks discharging directly into surface water (rivers, streams, ditches, etc.) are no longer compliant with the Environment Agency’s General Binding Rules.

If your property still uses a septic tank—and especially if you're selling—it must be upgraded to a compliant system within a reasonable timescale, typically around 12 months, or the sale may not proceed smoothly.

STPs provide significantly improved treatment, reducing environmental harm, preventing pollution, and helping protect water quality.

Compliance & Legal Requirements:

Sewage treatment plants must comply with British Standard EN 12566-3, confirmed by CE marking or accompanying certification.
GOV.UK

They must also meet Building Regulations regarding siting: typically, units must be installed:

At least 7 m from a habitable building

The outlet or soakaway ≥10 m from a watercourse, ≥15 m from buildings, and ≥50 m from water supplies such as boreholes or springs

Drainage fields (if used) must follow BS 6297 standards and be correctly sized to suit soil and loading conditions.

All installations require Building Regulations approval, and often planning permission—especially in sensitive areas. A permit from the Environment Agency may be needed if local connections to mains wastewater aren’t viable
GOV.UK

Service Features We Offer

Assessment & Advice: We'll determine if your property can connect to the mains sewer or if a treatment plant or drainage field is necessary.

Full Installation: British-standard-compliant equipment installed to current standards, including necessary plumbing, soakaway, outfall, and electrical setup.

Compliance Support: We can handle building notification, documentation of compliance, and liaise on permits if needed.

Maintenance Planning: Provide guidance or service plans to ensure your STP works reliably and remains compliant long-term.

Protecting Your Property and the Environment.

By upgrading to a sewage treatment plant:

You're avoiding potential fines and legal issues tied to non-compliant septic systems.

You maintain property value and avoid delays or negotiation hurdles when selling—many buyers expect a fully compliant system.

You're protecting watercourses, groundwater, and the wider environment by ensuring only treated, safe effluent is released.

We can install sump pumps to prevent flooding and water damage in your basement or crawl space. Our team will ensure that your sump pump is installed correctly and functioning properly.

We offer regular maintenance services to keep your drainage system in top condition. Our experts can inspect, clean, and repair your drainage system to prevent any potential issues.