If you’re installing a new driveway, patio, or landscaping project, understanding soakaway regulations is essential. Soakaways are drainage systems designed to manage surface water, allowing it to gradually soak into the ground rather than overwhelming sewers. While they offer an effective way to prevent flooding, they must comply with UK regulations to protect the environment and avoid legal issues.
At Premier Surfacing, we can guide homeowners and businesses through the rules and best practices to ensure compliance and long-term performance.
What is a Soakaway?
A soakaway is typically a pit filled with rubble or aggregate that collects rainwater and allows it to gradually percolate into the surrounding soil. They are commonly used for:
- Driveways and patios
- Garden landscaping
- Roof water drainage (via downpipes)
Soakaways reduce surface water runoff and the risk of flooding, making them an environmentally friendly solution, but they must be designed, sited, and installed correctly by a professional surfacing company such as Premier Surfacing.
UK Soakaway Regulations
In the UK, soakaways fall under several regulatory frameworks:
Building Regulations (Part H)
These regulations govern drainage and water management for buildings and hard surfaces. Any new soakaway must not cause water to run onto neighbouring properties or public highways.
Local Planning Requirements
Many local councils have additional guidelines on surface water drainage, especially in areas prone to flooding. It’s essential to check with your local authority before installing a soakaway, or speak to a local surfacing company in your area.
Environmental Agency Guidelines
If your property is near watercourses or sensitive ecological areas, additional rules may apply to prevent contamination or ecological harm.
Non-compliance can lead to enforcement notices, fines, or costly remedial work.
Soakaways: Tips for Staying Compliant
1. Get a Site Survey
Soil type and ground conditions determine how effective a soakaway will be. A simple percolation test, sometimes required by councils, ensures your design will safely manage surface water. A professional surfacing company can help with this.
2. Follow Design Guidelines
Soakaways must be sized correctly, typically based on the area of impermeable surfaces they serve and local rainfall data. Use perforated pipes, geotextile membranes, and aggregate correctly to maximise efficiency.
3. Maintain Your Soakaway
Even a compliant soakaway can fail without proper maintenance. Remove debris, clear leaf litter, and check for blockages regularly to prevent water from backing up onto your property.
4. Consult Professionals
Working with experts like Premier Surfacing ensures your soakaway is designed and installed to meet both Building Regulations and local planning requirements, giving you peace of mind.
Soakaway Regulations and Compliance: How We Can Help
Understanding and adhering to soakaway regulations is essential for protecting your property, your neighbours, and the environment. By planning carefully, following guidelines, and maintaining your system, you can manage surface water effectively and stay fully compliant.
For professional advice, installation, or maintenance of soakaways, contact Premier Surfacing today. We are a professional surfacing company based in Market Drayton, working throughout Shropshire, Stoke-on-Trent, and Cheshire. We ensure your property is safe, sustainable, and regulation-ready.
