Many potential homebuyers are unaware of the advantages they could reap by buying a property with a septic tank. As a seller, informing the buyer of these advantages is half the battle. Once they’re sold on the idea and have agreed to buy the property, it is your duty to ensure your septic tank system conforms to all the legal requirements. Otherwise, your wastewater could land you in hot water.
This article will help you sell your home — from initial viewing until sale completion.
How Do I Convince People to Buy a House with a Septic Tank?
There are many advantages to being a homeowner of a property with a septic system. You should enlighten potential buyers to these advantages to give your property the best chance of selling.
- Saves money
The average water bill for homes in Britain is £405 a year, of which at least £200 is the cost of handling sewage. Homes with septic tanks do not need to pay this fee.
- Long-lasting
Septic tanks have a long lifespan. If you sell your septic tank in good condition, buyers can go years without having to undertake any extensive repair works.
- Great for the environment
The water from septic tanks permeates the soil in a drainage field and helps it to grow. Waste is filtered by the water before it exits the system, so all bacteria will have been removed before it enters the soil.
- Helps local wildlife
Local birds, insects and squirrels will gain a food source thanks to your septic tank. Animals will feed on the plants that grow from the nourished soil.
Are There Regulations for Selling a House with a Septic Tank?
There used to be two places a septic tank would empty it wastewater into:
- A drainage field or soakaway system. The wastewater would exit the pipework and soak into the surrounding soil.
- A watercourse. This is a channel that a flowing body of water follows.
However, the law has recently changed to prohibit septic tanks from emptying water into a watercourse. This is to reduce pollution and protect the natural environment. Now, the septic tank must drain into a soakaway system or drainage field.
If you’re selling your house, it is imperative that you have upgraded or replaced your septic tank so that it only drains into a soakaway system or drainage field. It is your responsibility to ensure your septic tank has been altered before the sale completes. You could find yourself in legal trouble if you fail to do this.
Buyers of the property may engage a surveyor to undergo a detailed inspection of the septic tank system. If they find that the system is not compliant with the General Binding Rules, they can file a legal claim against you.
If you’re in need of septic tank maintenance to ensure it is in a legal and sellable condition, contact Wildon UK. Wildon UK are expert engineers, specialising in a range of septic tank and wastewater services. With over 20 years’ experience in the industry, you are guaranteed to receive professional, efficient service.
To enquire further about our services, get in touch with our team today. We serve customers in Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire and the whole of the UK.
