Problems with new neighbour over septic tank drainage pipe

JFT1

I have spoke to a septic tank insulation guy and the bad news is I don't have enough land in my garden to filter it. That explains why when they built the houses they took the pipe into the field. Next doors septic tank now goes into a stream that is on her land. So I cannot remove the pipe because my tank won't work without it. He said if I could connect to the stream it would cost £8000 to £10000 to have it installed. But we cannot get to the neighbours stream it's across her garden and driveway. So I will have to fight it in court if we get a solicitors letter.

JFT1

Well never received a solicitor letter from new neighbours. It is unbelievable that someone would put people through this when they have not even spoke to us. But thank you for all the advice on here. 

canaldumidi

JFT1 said:

I have spoke to a septic tank insulation guy and the bad news is I don't have enough land in my garden to filter it. ...........

. Next doors septic tank now goes into a stream that is on her land. So I cannot remove the pipe because my tank won't work without it. He said if I could connect to the stream it would cost £8000 to £10000 to have it installed. But we cannot get to the neighbours stream it's across her garden and driveway. So I will have to fight it in court if we get a solicitors letter.

I know energy efficiency and insulation is all the rage these days, but... insulating a septic tank...???

A septic tank discharging into a stream is definately illegal. Only foul water that's been through a treatment plant can be discharged into a water course.

That's also why it might cost £8-10000 for you to connect to the stream- you'd have to replace the septic tank with a small sewage treatment plant as well as install the pipework.

Perhaps a call to the Environment agency about the neighbour's polluting of the stream would bring them to the negotiating table, and you could then discuss sharing the cost of a single treatment plant......

JFT1

Hi new update I have received a solicitors letter wanting proof of prescriptive easement, my house deeds, copy of the email from the environmental health. I have emailed back with what is required except deeds I have said they can apply for a copy because it costs money. But the bad news is we have just received an offer on our house which we were selling so I am sure that will fall through.