Cesspools and Cesspits

Cesspools commonly referred to as cesspits are typically holding tanks for untreated sewage waste.

The difference between Septic Tanks and Cesspits

Unlike septic tanks no treatment takes place in cesspools or cesspits and the waste does not drain to a soak-away.

The cesspit simply collects and stores the untreated sewage, until it is taken away to a sewage treatment works. Cesspools require frequent emptying, about every 30 to 45 days depending on its capacity and level of use.

Why use Cesspits

Cesspools and cesspits can act as a temporary solution for areas where there are no mains drainage systems and in locations where discharge of treated sewage is not permitted because of unsuitable ground conditions. Alternatively they can be used when it is only for temporary use such as a holiday home, which prevents use of more permanent alternatives like a sewage treatment plant or a septic tank.

On campsites, where the waste is chemically treated, they are also necessary as such waste can kill a sewage treatment plant or septic tank. All cesspools should have an alarm fitted on them to indicate whenever they are near full and require emptying.

The alarm is the only safe method of checking the cesspit’s level as opening the lid can release noxious and dangerous gases which could be very harmful to the general population.

Cesspools and Cesspits Problems

Due to the ventilations fitted on Cesspools and cesspits they generally give off a very powerful odour when the gases escape. Leaking or overflowing cesspools are a violation of the Public Health Act of 1936 and if it pollutes a watercourse you could be liable for a 3-month imprisonment and a fine of up to £20k.

If the cesspool leaks or you notice any other problem, you should seek immediately help from a qualified engineer to clear up the sewage or remove the waste. And of course the source of the problem should be found and fixed right away.

When positioning a cesspit there are some important factors that you should consider. The system should be at least 7 m away from any household and very far away from any watercourse, typically more than 10m. Adequate space and access for emptying tankers should also be considered.

In houses or buildings where cesspits are installed, great caution should be taken when driving or walking over them. They can cover as much as 20 square metres, meaning they become a bit weak with time and keep in mind they are brick built and the environment inside could be quite corrosive. You do not want to experience it first-hand!

Emptying cesspits and cesspools

Cesspools and Cesspits should only be emptied by a qualified and licensed waste disposer. It is illegal for anyone who is not qualified or licensed to empty it and the fines involved are also quite high.

It is also recommended that you should only install a cesspool if there are really no other alternatives available.

Operation of cesspits and cesspools

When waste water flows into the cesspool it is stored there until when it will be emptied and there is no treatment of the waste.

All cesspools and cesspits should be sized according to the Building Regulations 2000, Section H2, where it is recommended that a cesspit for a single domestic dweller should have at least a capacity of 18,000 litres.

The capacity should increase by a minimum of 6,800 litres for every additional user.

Please feel welcome to contact Boxall Ward for more information, and we’ll be delighted to help.