Understand the source
We establish which roofs or hard surfaces are contributing water and where the existing drainage runs.
Surface-water soakaways
Manage rainwater below the surface
Site-led soakaway solutions for roofs, hard surfaces and domestic drainage projects across Sussex and nearby Kent.
A soakaway has to suit the ground around it
The available space, soil, groundwater, nearby structures and the volume of surface water all influence what is practical.
Check the ground
Ground conditions and infiltration performance help determine whether a soakaway is appropriate.
Plan the installation
Position, excavation, pipe routes, storage volume and the agreed surface finish are brought into one scope.
A rainwater soakaway is not a sewage drainage field
Soakaways manage surface water. Domestic sewage effluent discharged to ground must use an appropriate drainage field or infiltration system and meet the relevant requirements.
What the work can include
The exact scope depends on whether this is a new drainage route, a replacement or part of wider groundworks.
Site discussion
Review the problem, affected surfaces and the available area.
Testing and design
Complete the checks needed to confirm suitability and inform sizing.
Excavation and installation
Prepare the excavation, install the system and connect the agreed pipework.
Reinstatement
Backfill and leave the surface to the finish agreed in the quotation.
Common soakaway questions
A site conversation is usually the quickest way to establish which checks are needed.
Can every property have a soakaway?
No. Suitability depends on factors including soil infiltration, groundwater, available space, nearby structures and local drainage constraints.
Do I need a percolation test?
A percolation test may be needed to understand how quickly water can infiltrate the ground and to inform the design. We can discuss what is appropriate for the proposed work.
Can you replace a failed soakaway?
Where access and ground conditions allow, replacement can be considered after the existing arrangement and likely cause of failure have been assessed.
Discuss a surface-water problem
Tell us what is happening, where the water is collecting and what drainage is already in place.