Soakaway - how far, how deep?

UncleZen

If a property was built in 1987 and has a gutter draining to a soakaway, how far would the soakaway be from the property and how deep?
The reason I ask, is that I want to relocate a small pond and I dont want to dig into the soakaway if possible.

ormus

there are no absolute rules on siting a soakaway, just guidelines.
the pipe should be 3 or 4 inches. (you could follow the pipe).
the hole size should be approx 4x4x4 ft.

ps
designing a proper soakaway is exceedingly complex. factors inc rainfall and roof size and slope etc...
few builders will bother doing that. most of em just dig a hole.

tigeress289

It depends on what the water table level is like where you live. If possible try to position it approx 10 metres away. Pit should be at least 2mts deep by at least 1mt square. And tumble your outlet into it. The position is your choice. The bigger the better.

southcoastrgi

tigeress289 wrote: »

It depends on what the water table level is like where you live. If possible try to position it approx 10 metres away. Pit should be at least 2mts deep by at least 1mt square. And tumble your outlet into it. The position is your choice. The bigger the better.

Did you actually read the OP question ??

tigeress289

Yes, It is easier to relocate than looking if you dont know what you are looking for to start with. You and I know how to trace pipework and look for signs of a soakaway. Most OP's ask because they dont know. Last year I had to re run a new outlet to a new soak away in Southall and that was only built in the 90's.
Without being there, it is anyones guess where it is. I just think its easier to re locate as moving pond.

greyteam1959

Bit off your topic UncleZen..........
Did you know that you can get a rebate from your Water Company if your surface water does not go into the mains sewer.
Yours goes into a soakaway you you may get the rebate anyway.
Would be worth checking !!

UncleZen

Thanks, maybe I'll have a dig and see what I find, starting by following the pipe and moving away from the house.
Im probably only going down 3ft max for the pond, and a certain amount will be above ground.
BTW the water table is probably not that high as we're near the top of a hill.

tigeress289

Normally you can get a rough idea of location by taking a line from the gulley the rainwater goes into and look for signs of sinkage in the ground and good growth of grass. As you say, living on the top of a hill, will be perfect for a soakaway. A good percentage of locations are central.