Septic tank emptying & servicing in Cornwall

How often should you empty?

As a rule of thumb, a typical family septic tank needs emptying about once a year — but it genuinely depends on tank size and how many people use it. A large tank on low occupancy can stretch further; a small tank on a full house needs it more often.

Not sure where you stand? Our free diagnostic gives you a recommended frequency in under a minute.

What emptying and servicing includes

De-sludging: we remove the accumulated solids and scum, not just the liquid, so the tank starts its cycle properly again.

A visual check of the tank, baffles and the outlet to the drainage field so small problems are caught early.

For treatment plants: servicing to the manufacturer’s schedule — a lapsed service is the usual reason a compliant plant drifts out of compliance.

A waste transfer note every time — we are registered waste carriers, and keeping the receipt is part of the General Binding Rules.

Signs your tank is due

Slow drains and gurgling pipes, bad smells outside, wet or unusually lush patches over the drainage field, or sewage backing up are all signs the tank is full or the drainage field is struggling. If you are seeing any of these, don’t wait for the next scheduled visit.