When installing a sewage treatment system, it’s essential to consider building control requirements. Here’s what you need to know:
- Building Control Approval:
- Septic Tank: Generally, septic tank installations do not require Building Control approval if you’re replacing like-for-like or installing a tank in the same place as the original. However, if you’re moving the location of the septic tank, you may need approval.
- Sewage Treatment Systems: These installations will typically require approval from Building control. it is recommended to check with your local authority.
- How To Apply:
- Contact a Building Control Body (BCB) to check the building regulations or apply for approval.
- You can apply for approval from your local council or you can apply through a private approved inspector– if you are hiring a groundworker/installer to installer the treatment system, ask them to see if they will submit the forms on your behalf- many companies will offer this service or offer details of a local private company.
- Building Notices:
- This application is for smaller projects such as installing a sewage Treatment System, typically you can start work 2-5 days after your notice has been submitted.
- Regularisation:
- It is possible to apply for regularisation or retrospective approval for work already carried out without consent. (note that in some cases you might need to make alterations before building control can agree to the compliance of the work, and provide a regularisation certificate)
- Other Considerations:
- Reasonable Connection: Only install a sewage treatment system if it’s not reasonable to connect to a public foul sewer. You must have building regulations approval for a new sewage treatment system. You might also need planning permission, so check with your local council.
- Existing Systems: If your current system didn’t receive building regulations approval when installed, you may need to apply for it. Contact your local council for advice if your system was installed before January 1, 20155.
Remember to follow local guidelines and consult with professionals to ensure compliance with building regulations during installation.
