How It Works
Find a registered septic tank company in three steps
1
Search Your Area
Enter your county or city to find registered companies near you
2
Compare Companies
View EA registration details, Google ratings, and contact information
3
Get in Touch
Call directly or visit their website to book your emptying
Browse by Region
Find registered companies across 10 UK regions
Other Off-Mains Drainage Services
Request a quote for work beyond a routine empty
Why Use This Directory?
Government-backed data you can trust
Official EA Data
Sourced from the Environment Agency waste carrier register
Every Registration Verified
Registration number and expiry date shown for every company
Legal Requirement
Using an unregistered carrier carries an unlimited fine
No Sign-Up Required
Completely free. No account, no hidden fees. Just find and call
Common Questions
Everything you need to know about septic tank emptying
How often should I empty my septic tank?
Most septic tanks should be emptied at least once a year, though this depends on tank size, household size, and usage. The Environment Agency recommends following the manufacturer's instructions. Cesspits (sealed tanks with no soakaway) fill faster and may need emptying every 4-6 weeks.
Do I need a registered waste carrier to empty my septic tank?
Yes. It is a legal requirement to use an Environment Agency registered waste carrier to empty your septic tank or cesspit. Operating without registration carries an unlimited fine. Every company in our directory is verified against the official EA register.
How much does septic tank emptying cost?
A standard domestic septic tank empty (up to 1,000 gallons) typically costs £120–£250. Larger tanks (2,000+ gallons) cost £225–£400. Emergency or out-of-hours callouts can cost £200–£500+. Prices vary by location, access, and tank size.
What are the General Binding Rules for septic tanks?
Since January 2020, septic tanks in England can no longer discharge to surface water (streams, ditches, rivers). They must discharge to the ground via a drainage field, or be replaced with a sewage treatment plant. Non-compliant systems must be upgraded, especially when a property is sold.
What is the difference between a septic tank and a cesspit?
A septic tank partially treats wastewater and discharges to a drainage field in the ground. A cesspit (or cesspool) is a sealed tank that stores all waste with no discharge — it must be emptied regularly by a tanker. Cesspits are more expensive to maintain due to frequent emptying.