How Much Will It Cost To Install A New Soakaway?

A soakaway is an important part of many drainage systems in the UK. It allows surface water or wastewater to safely drain into the ground, preventing flooding and protecting nearby buildings.

Soakaways are commonly used with septic tanks, drainage systems, and rainwater runoff from roofs or driveways.

If you're considering installing one, a common question is: how much does it cost to install a new soakaway in the UK?

The answer depends on several factors, including the type of soakaway required, ground conditions, and the amount of excavation needed.

Average Cost of Installing a Soakaway in the UK

For most domestic properties, the cost of installing a soakaway typically ranges between:

£1,000 and £4,000.

However, the price can vary depending on the complexity of the job.

A simple soakaway for rainwater drainage may sit at the lower end of the range, while a larger soakaway connected to a septic tank drainage system may cost more due to excavation work and additional materials.

What Is a Soakaway?

A soakaway is an underground drainage system designed to disperse water slowly into the surrounding soil.

It usually consists of a pit filled with rubble, gravel, or specialist soakaway crates wrapped in permeable membrane.

Water flows into the soakaway through drainage pipes and gradually filters into the ground, helping prevent standing water or flooding around the property.

Soakaways are commonly installed for:

• Surface water drainage

• Driveway drainage

• Roof gutter systems

• Septic tank drainage fields

Factors That Affect the Cost of Installing a Soakaway

Several factors can influence the total cost of installing a new soakaway.

Ground Conditions

The type of soil on your property is one of the biggest factors.

Sandy or well-draining soils allow water to disperse easily, making installation simpler.

Clay-heavy soil drains slowly, which may require a larger soakaway or additional drainage solutions.

A professional contractor may carry out a percolation test to determine whether the ground is suitable. We can assist with this percolation test - please feel free to call us to discuss this.

Size of the Soakaway

The size of the soakaway depends on how much water needs to be managed.

For example, a soakaway designed to handle roof runoff from a small property will be smaller than one designed to handle drainage from a septic tank or large paved areas.

Larger soakaways require more excavation, materials, and labour.

Depth and Excavation Work

The depth of excavation required can significantly affect costs.

If the ground is easy to dig and access is straightforward, installation will be quicker and cheaper.

However, deeper excavations, difficult access, or rocky ground can increase labour time and machinery costs.

Materials Used

Traditional soakaways were often constructed using rubble or gravel.

Modern installations frequently use soakaway crates, which are lightweight plastic structures designed to hold large volumes of water underground while allowing gradual drainage.

Crate systems can sometimes increase material costs but are often more efficient and easier to install.

Access to the Property

Access to the installation area can also influence the cost.

If machinery such as mini diggers can easily reach the site, the installation is usually faster.

Restricted access may require smaller machinery or additional labour.

Signs You May Need a New Soakaway

If your property already has drainage problems, installing a new soakaway may help resolve the issue.

Common warning signs include:

• Standing water in the garden

• Flooding after heavy rain

• Slow draining surface water

• Water pooling near the house or driveway

Ignoring drainage issues can eventually lead to damage to foundations, patios, and driveways.

Do Soakaways Need Maintenance?

Once installed correctly, soakaways typically require very little maintenance.

However, it's important to ensure that drainage pipes leading into the soakaway remain clear.

Blocked drains or damaged pipework can prevent water from reaching the soakaway properly.

If a soakaway becomes clogged with silt or debris, it may eventually need repair or replacement. We can assist with blocked drains or soakaways that are clogged. Please feel free to call if you need help with this.

Professional Soakaway Installation

Installing a soakaway requires proper planning, excavation, and drainage design.

A professional contractor such as ourselves will assess the property, determine the correct location, and ensure the soakaway is installed at the appropriate distance from buildings and boundaries.

This helps ensure the system works effectively and complies with UK drainage regulations.

Soakaway Installation in Staffordshire and Surrounding Areas

If you're experiencing drainage issues or need a new soakaway installed, it is best to seek advice from an experienced contractor.

We provide a professional soakaway installation service throughout Eccleshall, Stafford, Staffordshire, Cheshire, Derbyshire and Shropshire, helping homeowners resolve drainage problems and protect their property from water damage.

Please do get in touch if you wish to discuss your soakaway installation or issues.