• Septic Tank Emptying & Cleaning

    Septic tanks are responsible for collecting waste water and sewage from domestic and commercial properties that are not connected to the mains sewer lines.

What are Septic Tanks?

Septic tank configurations vary to suit the requirement. These work in conjunction with a drainage field to treat the waste water effectively and return it to the environment. Septic tanks provide an affordable, efficient and environmentally friendly way to deal with waste water.
Septic Tank Emptying

Septic Tank Emptying Near You

If you're in the South-East of England, we have it covered with our tanker services.

6 or 12 Month Services

Subject to property size, maintenance is the key to preventing emergency call-out and unexpected costs.

Total Drainage Solutions

We carry out full drainage services meaning we are typically always prepared for any eventuality. 

Professional, Reliable, tanker services.

We have the tools, the methods and the expertise, providing significant value for money.

How do septic tanks work?

The waste from your property flows through drains into the septic tank. This fills the tank with effluent (waste water) which is broken down by anaerobic bacteria, separating oils (which float to the top) and solids (which float to the bottom). Once this separation process has taken place, the effluent escapes through a filtered outlet towards the drainage field. In the drainage field, bacteria have a big area to thrive and the treated effluent can seep into the ground. Aerobic bacteria in the surrounding soil brings the process to a close, taking in the clean, filtered water. All that is left in the tank is the refuse.

How often does my septic tank need emptying?

Emptying and cleaning your septic tank can help prevent any overflowing or malfunctions from occurring, whilst helping maintain efficiency. How regularly you empty your septic tank or all depends on the size of the property and how frequently it is used. It’s recommended that you empty your tank every 6-12 months to maintain effective performance.

Our accreditations

Safecontractor Approved for your Tanker Service Needs
CSCS for your Tanker Service Needs
How can septic tanks problems be prevented?
A septic tank that is not emptied on a regular basis is at risk of causing contamination to surrounding areas. A pre-planned maintenance contract is the perfect solution to minimise the risk of overflowing, blockages or costly repairs being required in the future. Routine maintenance also ensures your septic tank is compliant with legal requirements. It can also be useful to ensure no sanitary products, food waste, oils or grease enter the pipes. Using biologically friendly products is also recommended.
Why use Grey-Water services for septic tank emptying?
The Grey-Water team have many years of experience in septic tank emptying and cleaning. Grey-Water is a highly trusted drainage company in the South of the UK and will provide you with reliable, hassle-free maintenance.

Our fully certified and professional network of engineers and access to the latest technology and equipment allows us to provide septic tank services that are quick, effective and cause minimal disturbance.

We offer emergency call-outs 24 hours a day, as well as pre-planned maintenance contracts which can help to avoid unnecessary disruptions.

Get in touch with the Grey-Water Team today for all your septic tank needs.

​Tanker Services

Grey-Water Drainage offer a wide range of tanker services to our commercial and residential customers. 
Tanker Services

What Do Our Tanker Services Cover?

With years of experience in the drainage industry, our tankers and team of expert engineers are available 24/7 and are fully equipped to deal professionally with all waste water issues, guaranteeing any disruption to your daily life is kept to a minimum. Our expertise is in liquid waste disposal and the clearing of sewers, septic tanks and waste removal of sewage and hazardous waste. Our team of highly skilled professional engineers also offer jetting and industrial water waste management.

Liquid Waste Collection

Oil Spills

Oil spill response

Oil waste disposal

Hazardous waste disposal

Leachate Collection

Soakaway Clean

Culvert Cleaning

    Interceptors

    Grease Trap Waste

    Pond and Lagoon Emptying

    Bund Walls

    Food Waste

    Cesspits

    Septic Tanks

    Catch Pits

      Don't see your service? No problem. Get In Touch.

      Tanker Services Near You

      We have access to various tankers with high pressure drain jetting equipment and more. If your septic tank or cesspit needs a service, we are equipped.

      Cesspit Emptying & Cleaning

      Full emptying, cleaning and maintenance. We will also inspect and report on the condition of your equipment, so you don't get caught out by any nasty surprises with our drain CCTV services.

      Recommended 6-12 Month Services

      Subject to property size, maintenance is the key to preventing emergency drain blockages that cost and cause more worry.

      Cesspit Services

      We carry out full cesspit drain services, we have every eventuality covered. 


      Tanker Service Fleet
      We have a range of bulk waste removal vehicles sized to suit all requirements from private residential clients to commercial properties and large industrial premises. We are able to offer a same/next day service 24/7. 

      With our fleet of tankers, equipped to support customers with bulk waste water removal, you can be sure that your waste is transported and disposed of responsibly.
      Water Waste Disposal
      Oil, foul water and grease are some of the substances that make up liquid waste which is what our tankers are best suited for. These specially designed tankers make easy work of removing and disposing of all types of liquid waste.

      Grey-Water Drainage is highly committed to providing a reliable and responsible service 24/7 and if you have a waste water requirement then please do get in touch with the team so today to find out more about our tinkering services.
      Who We Work With

      Households

      Local Council

      Commercial Enterprise

      Commercial Property Development

      Investment Companies

      Property Management & Estate Agency

      Government & Quango

      NHS & Private Healthcare

      Airports

      Warehousing & Distribution Parks

      Food and Beverage Production

      Retail & Shopping Centres

      Proven Expertise

      We are trusted by the public, government, SME and corporations.

      The Importance of Hygiene

      If your facility produces food, our vehicles and equipment are kept clean and well maintained. Our staff regularly use hand sanitisers and barrier creams which are replaced throughout the day. Fresh PPE is used on each project we attend. 

      High Risk Areas

      Our teams are used to accessing sensitive areas and have been security vetted many multiple times. If we have to access a high risk area, such as an airport airside facility, you can count on us to adhere to the rules.

      Supporting Vulnerable Individuals

      If we are attending a property with vulnerable occupants, their needs will be of vital importance to us. If the client is elderly or frail, we will explain with patience and care the situation and resolve the issue with utmost priority. If required, we will liaise with family members or care agencies at every step of the way.

      Lets Get The Flow Going
      Get A Quote Now!

      Do not hesitate to contact us with any queries.

      Phone, email or LiveChat, you are one step away from complete peace of mind.

      Call Us Including For Out Of Hours Emergencies

      Phone: 0800 141 3599

       Emergencies 

      Expert diagnosis & swift resolution of all blocked drains. Serving residential and commercial clients.

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      We have seen every type of blocked interior drain, providing an efficient & affordable service.

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      We will fix any drain that is leaking, in any location of your property, inside & out on our visit.

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      Drain Maintenance

      We provide all manner of drain repairs, whether to an appliance, toilet, bath or shower.

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      Have a new drain to install? We can provide a full excavation and installation service.

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      Cost-effective, non-invasive drain repairs, eliminating the need for costly digging services.

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      Keep your drainage system clear and clean, free of faults.

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      We maintain all public and private storm and aco drainage systems.

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      We maintain all manner of sewers on public & private estates.

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      Tanker Services

      Quick turnaround septic tank emptying at affordable prices using our own fleet vehicles.

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      Cesspit emptying for all types of residential, commercial and events companies.

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      Tank Cleaning

      We don't just empty septic tanks and cesspits, we clean and maintain them too.

       Inspection

      Efficient CCTV drainage surveys for clear insights. Detect issues and prevent disasters.

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      If you're not sure of the location of a drain & require a map or schematic, we got you covered.

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      Buying a home is not a big risk, if you know everything about it. Don't forget your drainage!

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      Frequently Asked Questions

      How long does does a septic tank take to fill?

      This is subjective to the owner of the septic tank. The time it takes for a cesspit to fill up can vary depending on several factors such as its size, the number of occupants using the system, and their water usage habits. However, it's important to note that cesspits are not designed to be filled and are typically emptied on a regular basis to prevent overflowing.

      How much does septic tank emptying cost?

      Cesspits will vary in size - a larger cesspit will ultimately be more costly to empty than a smaller one. Generally, a 4,500 litre cesspit will range from £100 to empty, whilst an 18,000 litre will mark up at upwards of £250. Of course, total sums will differ from case to case when it comes to cesspit cleaning. 

      Is there septic tank emptying near me?

      If you live in the Kent or London area, we have local operatives in your area. We are available to carry out commercial and residential cleaning of septic tanks, depending on what you require. Give us a call and we will provide you with our next available visit date.

      Can I empty my septic tank myself?

      Due to the specialist training and equipment needed in order to empty cesspits, only experts are qualified to undertake them. Talk to us today and find out how we can save you stress and money with our experienced staff.

      Do I have to pay in advance for septic tank emptying?

      As this process can be time-dependent, we ask for payment after the job is complete.

      Will a septic tank smell?

      Kept in the proper condition, a septic tank will not cause odour to permeate outside. All waste water is contained within the tank and without any cracks or leakage, the smell will also be contained. If you smell unusual odours coming from your septic tank, give Grey-Water a call; it may be that the tank has sustained damage.

      What size septic tank do I need?

      The size of septic tank that suits your needs depends on what your needs are. For example, if you live in a house alone or with one or two other people, you may only need a small septic tank with around a 4000 litre capacity only to be emptied once every year or two. Although, if you need to accommodate a lot of people, a much larger septic tank could be necessary (perhaps in the realm of 18,000 litres).

      How do you empty a septic tank?

      Septic tank emptying can only be done with specialised equipment and proper training. A waste removal vehicle is brought in and through the use of a large pressurised vacuum attached to a hose, the sewage is sucked into the vehicle's waste tank ready for transporting to the correct disposal facility.

      Where would you find a septic tank?

      Septic tanks are found commonly in rural and urban areas where centralised sewage systems are not available. They are typically located on the property of residential homes or commercial buildings, away from water sources such as wells, lakes, or other bodies of water.

      Septic Tank Emptying In London
      We cover tank emptying in the following areas of London:
      Bexley
      Bromley
      Greenwich
      Herne Hill
      Lewisham
      Newham
      Twickenham

      Our London Septic Tank teams cover the following London post codes: 

      East London:
      E1, E1W, E2, E3, E4, E5, E6, E7, E8, E9, E10, E11, E12, E13, E14, E15, E16, E17, E18, E20, E77, E98

      West London:
      W1A, W1B, W1C, W1D, W1F, W1G, W1H, W1J, W1K, W1S, W1T, W1U, W1W, W2, W3, W4, W5, W6, W7, W8, W9, W10, W11, W12, W13, W14

      South East London:
      SE1, SE1P, SE2, SE3, SE4, SE5, SE6, SE7, SE8, SE9, SE10, SE11, SE12, SE13, SE14, SE15, SE16, SE17, SE18, SE19, SE20, SE21, SE22, SE23, SE24, SE25, SE26, SE27, SE28

      South West London:
      SW1A, SW1E, SW1H, SW1P, SW1V, SW1W, SW1X, SW1Y, SW2, SW3, SW4, SW5, SW6, SW7, SW8, SW9, SW10, SW11, SW12, SW13, SW14, SW15, SW16, SW17, SW18, SW19, SW20

      Twickenham 
      TW1, TW2, TW3, TW4, TW5, TW6, TW7, TW8, TW9, TW10, TW11, TW12, TW13, TW14, TW15, TW16, TW17, TW18, TW19, TW20

      Don't see your post code?
      No problem. Give us a quick call to see if we are in your area today Tel: 0800 141 3599 / Out of Hours Emergency: 07734 965 564
      Septic Tank Emptying In Kent

      We cover tank emptying in the following areas of Kent:

      Ashford

      Dartford

      Gillingham

      Gravesend

      Maidstone

      Medway

      Rochester

      Sittingbourne

      Tonbridge

      Tunbridge Wells


      Our Kent Septic Tank teams cover the following post codes: 


      BR1, BR2, BR3, BR4, BR5, BR6, BR7, BR8


      DA1, DA2, DA3, DA4, DA5, DA6, DA7, DA8, DA9, DA10, DA11, DA12, DA13, DA14, DA15, DA16, DA17


      TN8, TN9, TN10, TN11, TN12, TN13, TN14, TN15, TN16,TN17, TN18, TN23, TN24, TN25, TN26, TN27, TN28,TN29,TN30


      CT1, CT2, CT3, CT4, CT5, CT6, CT7, CT8, CT9, CT10, CT11, CT12, CT13, CT14, CT15, CT16, CT17, CT18, CT19, CT20, CT21


      Don't see your post code?

      No problem. Give us a quick call to see if we are in your area today Tel: 0800 141 3599 / Out of Hours Emergency: 07734 965 564
      Septic Tank Emptying In Sussex
      We cover drain surveys in the following areas of Sussex:
      Petworth
      Shoreham

      Our Sussex Septic Tank teams cover the following post codes: 

      BN1, BN2, BN41, BN42, BN45, BN50, BN51, BN88,BN3, BN52,BN5, BN6 BN7, BN8, BN9, BN10, BN11, BN12, BN13, BN14, BN91, BN99, BN15, BN99, BN16, BN17, BN18, BN20, BN21, BN22, BN23, BN24, BN25, BN26, BN27, BN43, BN44, 

      GU28,GU29

      PO18, PO19, PO20, PO21, PO22

      RH6, RH10, RH11,RH77, RH12, RH13, RH14, RH15, RH16, RH17, RH18, RH19, RH20

      TN2, TN5, TN19, TN20, TN21, TN22, TN31, TN32, TN33, TN34, TN35, TN36, TN37, TN38, TN39, TN40

      Don't see your post code?
      No problem. Give us a quick call to see if we are in your area today Tel: 0800 141 3599 / Out of Hours Emergency: 07734 965 564
      Septic Tank Emptying In Surrey
      Our Surrey Septic Tank teams cover the following post codes including some bordering Hampshire locations.

      CR0, CR9,CR44, CR90, CR2, CR3, CR4, CR5, CR6, CR7, CR8

      GU1, GU2, GU3, GU4, GU5, GU6, GU7, GU8, GU9, GU10, GU11, GU12, GU14, GU17,GU15, GU16, GU17, GU18, GU19, GU20, GU21, GU22, GU23, GU24, GU25, GU26, GU27, GU28, GU29, GU30, GU31, GU32, GU33, GU34, GU35, GU46, GU47, GU51, GU52

      KT1, KT2, KT3, KT4, KT5, KT6, KT7, KT8, KT8, KT9, KT10, KT11, KT12, KT13, KT14, KT15, KT16, KT17, KT18, KT19, KT20, KT21, KT22, KT23, KT24

      RH1, RH2, RH3, RH4, RH4, RH5, RH6, RH7, RH8, RH9

      SM1, SM2, SM3, SM4, SM5, SM6, SM7

      TW9, TW10, TW20

      Don't see your post code?
      No problem. Give us a quick call to see if we are in your area today Tel: 0800 141 3599 / Out of Hours Emergency: 07734 965 564