If your property isn't connected to the mains sewer network — and many rural and semi-rural properties in the North East aren't — you need a private wastewater system to treat and safely discharge what leaves your drains.
A septic tank is the most common solution for properties where the ground is suitable for a drainage field. It settles and separates the waste, then allows the liquid to drain slowly into the surrounding soil. Done properly, it works quietly and reliably for decades.
We handle everything — the site assessment, the system design, all the groundworks, the installation itself, and the compliance paperwork. You don't have to project-manage a single part of it.
Who it's for
Three situations where
you'll need a new installation
Self-builds & new builds
Building a property that won't have mains sewer access. You'll need a compliant system in place before Building Control will sign off the build. We're used to working alongside architects and project managers.
Rural homes with no system
Buying or moving into a rural property that has no existing drainage arrangement, or one that's clearly not fit for purpose. We'll assess the site and tell you what you actually need — not the most expensive option.
Barns, annexes & commercial
Converting an outbuilding, adding an annexe, or setting up a rural commercial property like a holiday let or campsite. We design systems sized for actual use — not oversized and overpriced.
What's included
The full job,
start to finish
Every ClearFlow installation covers the complete process. You don't need to arrange separate contractors for any part of it.
01
Free site survey
We come to you, look at the ground, review access, and assess suitability before any money changes hands.
02
Percolation testing
We test soil drainage rates to confirm ground suitability and calculate the correct system size.
03
System design
We specify the right tank size and drainage field layout for your property and ground conditions.
04
EA notification
We notify the Environment Agency on your behalf. You don't have to deal with the paperwork.
05
Excavation & installation
Our team handles all groundworks, tank placement, pipework connections, and backfilling.
06
Testing & commissioning
Everything is tested before we leave. The system runs correctly on day one.
07
Building Control sign-off
We provide all the documentation and manage the Building Control process to completion.
What's included
A system that's designed properly for your soil type and household size will last 25–30 years without major problems.
Skipping the percolation test is the most common reason new systems fail early. We always do it properly.
Environment Agency notification is a legal requirement. We handle it as standard — it's not an extra.
Building Control sign-off protects you when you come to sell. Without it, your solicitor will flag the installation as unverified.
All of this is included in the price we quote. Nothing is an add-on.
Ready to find out what your site needs?
How It Works
From your first call
to a working system
Here's exactly what happens when you get in touch with us about a new installation.
STEP 1
Get in touch
Call or fill in the form. Tell us what's going on — new build, rural property, barn conversion. We'll ask a few questions and arrange a site visit, usually within a few days.
STEP 2
We survey and test
We visit the site, carry out percolation testing, and assess access and ground conditions. You get a written quote with a fixed price. No charge for the visit.
STEP 3
We sort paperwork
Before any groundworks start, we notify the Environment Agency and submit the Building Control application. You don't need to do anything.
STEP 4
We install it
Excavation, tank placement, drainage field, pipework, testing, and backfill — our team handles the whole installation. Most domestic jobs take 2–4 days on site.
Environment Agency
Every new installation must be registered with the Environment Agency under the General Binding Rules. We handle the notification as part of the job — no action needed from you.
Building Regulations
New septic tank installations require Building Control approval under Part H of the Building Regulations. We submit the application, manage inspections, and obtain your completion certificate.
British Standards
Converting an outbuilding, adding an annexe, or setting up a rural commercial property like a holiday let or campsite. We design systems sized for actual use — not oversized and overpriced.