Sewage Storage Tanks
Sewage storage tanks, or cesspools, are sealed underground tanks designed to temporarily store wastewater and waste. Whether you’re running a campsite, holiday home park, aren’t connected to a main sewage network, or simply don’t have the ability to discharge effluent into suitable soil.
Keeping on top of your cesspool maintenance is essential in order to keep your system running as it should, increase the longevity of the tank and parts, and to minimise pollution risks associated with poor sewage storage tank maintenance.
How storage tank maintenance could affect your business
A sewage storage tank needs regular maintenance and monitoring to operate efficiently and compliantly over time.Â
With the right maintenance in place, your pump is more likely to run efficiently, meet required regulatory standards, and avoid unnecessary operational disruption. Without it, performance can gradually decline, increasing the likelihood of faults such as blockages and flooding, and causing unplanned downtime.
Why choose GreenSpark for your sewage tank maintenance and repairs?
Documentation that works for compliance
GreenSpark delivers storage tank maintenance with a focus on environmental compliance, producing records that support compliance and inspection requirements.
Expert support
We provide planned maintenance programmes and, through our 24/7 helpdesk, responsive support when urgent issues arise. Our teams can mobilise quickly across the UK, supporting sites when immediate intervention is needed.
Drainage Understanding and Control
We help organisations manage drainage infrastructure as part of responsible site operation. This includes maintaining systems that support pollution prevention and day-to-day environmental control.
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How regular sewage storage tank maintenance benefits a wider compliance programme
Regular sewage storage tank maintenance supports your wider environmental compliance programme by ensuring your high-risk assets are properly managed and repaired. Regular inspection, maintenance, and clear documentation provide evidence that containment systems are under control, helping meet audit and regulatory requirements.
Ready to book a consultation?
Our experts are here to help you design a tailored maintenance plan that protects your business and ensures long-term compliance. Fill out the form below to speak with a specialist.
FAQs
What is a sewage storage tank?
A sewage storage tank is an underground tank designed to collect and temporarily store wastewater and sewage from premises without a main sewer connection. Unlike septic tanks, cesspools do not treat and discharge collected waste, so require regular emptying from a licensed waste carrier with a tank.
How do I maintain my sewage storage tank?
Sewage storage tanks require annual emptying to be carried out by a licensed waste carrier and regular checks of the surrounding area to look for any indications that your tank could be full (eg. lush, green grass around the area of your tank, foul odours). When disposing of items that are headed to the tank, make sure to avoid harsh chemicals, cleaning products, FOG’s or non-biodegradable products that could kill beneficial bacteria or block the inbound pipe.
What happens during a GreenSpark sewage storage tank service?
During maintenance services, our experienced GreenSpark engineers will identify and handle any repairs upon finding them, such as cracks, leaks, or blockages. We provide detailed documentation of the process, supporting you with evidence that your business remains environmentally compliant. The frequency of maintenance depends on the type of tank and how it is used, but regular maintenance helps ensure systems remain operational and supports the ongoing management of assets that may pose environmental risk.
Do I need a permit to have a sewage storage tank installed?
No, if your storage tank is completely sealed with no discharge intention, you do not need an environmental permit or trade effluent permit. However, you must obtain planning permission and building regulation approval to install a storage tank, and follow strict regulations to ensure you do not discharge waste into the environment, as this could pose an illegal pollution offence.
If you need advice on sewage storage tank rules and regulations, the GreenSpark team is happy to provide the support you need, request a callback or book a consultation today.
What if I have a pollution incident?
GreenSpark offers a 24/7 emergency helpline, equipped with a friendly team ready to assess your situation and mobilise experienced engineers. Upon arrival, we assess the situation, quickly contain the pollution incident to prevent further spread, and then begin the process of precise cleanup. Following an incident, we provide accurate and consistent documentation, a crucial aspect in ensuring your premises can return to normal, whilst keeping safe and compliant.
Call our emergency helpline for swift support from GreenSpark experts.
Does GreenSpark offer multi-site maintenance?
Yes. We provide a single point of contact for both single and complex multi-site estates, coordinating planned maintenance, reactive attendance and compliance reporting across every location in your portfolio.