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Percolation Testing
Percolation Testing for Septic Tanks & Treatment Plants
If you’re installing or upgrading a septic tank or package sewage treatment plant, you need to know whether the ground can safely absorb treated effluent. That’s where percolation testing comes in.
Rated 4.9 on Google
ICE Drainage provides percolation testing and practical drainage field advice for commercial and hospitality sites across London and the Home Counties.
To book a percolation test or discuss a project, call 0203 870 1067 or email contactus@icedrainage.co.uk.
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By asking you a few questions either via phone or email I can immediately provide a realistic estimation of the cost.
Our percolation testing treatment process
Step 1 Contact
To book a free, no-obligation survey appointment, either give us a call on 0203828 7719 or email us on contactus@icedrainage.co.uk.
A member of our friendly support team will reach out to discuss your requests and provide an estimated cost for your Percolation Testing service.
If necessary, our technicians will visit the site to review the current situation.
Step 2 Quote
Adhering to all health and safety protocols, our technicians will assess the state of your property. They will then conduct a risk assessment to avoid unforeseen issues arising during the works.
Our team will make tailored suggestions concerning the best service for your situation and address any concerns or queries. You will receive a free, comprehensive quote for your Percolation Testing service.
Step 3 Works
Our qualified technicians will arrive promptly, fully uniformed with ID badges, ready to begin the work.
The service will be completed in accordance with the survey, adhering to all health and safety rules. We aim to maintain a safe working environment for all parties at all times.
Our team will review and document the completed work, making sure you're pleased with the job. We promise to leave your property safe and clean.
Step 4 After care
Here at ICE Drainage, we go the extra mile to ensure all clients are satisfied.
Our dedicated customer service team strive to converse with every client following the Percolation Testing service to make sure all expectations have been met.
You'll also be given the opportunity to write a Trustpilot review.
Emergency Hotline
0203 870 1067
Helpline open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
When calling please have
the following ready:
- Your Name
- Company Name (if applicable)
- Site Postcode
- The problem you're having
- Email Address
Get a Quote
Percolation Testing FAQs
The basics
Why do I need one before installing a septic tank?
It's usually a requirement for planning and Environment Agency approval, to confirm the ground can handle the discharge.
Technologies used
Can you carry out testing anywhere in the UK?
Yes, our engineers offer percolation testing across the UK.
What happens if the ground fails the test?
We can advise on alternative options, such as a different drainage field design or a treatment plant instead.
What is a percolation test?
It's a test that measures how quickly water drains through the ground, used to check if it's suitable for a drainage field.
On the day
How long does percolation testing take?
The test itself takes a few hours, though results and reporting may take a little longer.
Customer care
Will I get a written report?
Yes, you'll receive a report you can submit as part of your planning or permit application.
Why choose us?
- Cater to a wide variety of drainage situations
- Nationwide coverage, available 24/7
- Cater to commercial and domestic clients
- Free survey provided prior to quotation
- Emergency response team
- Offer a bespoke service designed to suit all your needs
- All technicians hold professional health and safety qualifications
What Is a Percolation Test?
A percolation test (often shortened to “perc test”) measures how quickly water drains through the soil.
It helps determine whether a site is suitable for:
- A drainage field / soakaway / infiltration system
- A septic tank or treatment plant discharge to ground (where applicable)
In short: it’s a key step in designing a system that works long-term — not just on day one.
When Do You Need Percolation Testing?
Percolation testing is commonly required when:
- Installing a new septic tank
- Installing a new package treatment plant
- Replacing an existing system
- Building an extension or changing site use (increased occupancy/flows)
- A drainage field has failed and you need to understand why
- You need evidence to support design decisions and compliance documentation
If you’re unsure whether you need a test, call 0203 870 1067 and we’ll point you in the right direction.
Why Percolation Testing Matters (Commercial & Hospitality)
For commercial sites, the consequences of getting this wrong are expensive:
- Drainage fields that saturate and fail early
- Ponding, odours, complaints, and operational disruption
- Repeat emptying/pump-outs that treat the symptom, not the cause
- Costly remedial works and emergency decisions
Percolation testing helps you design a system that matches the ground conditions and the real-world loading of your site.
What We Do During Percolation Testing
Percolation testing needs to be done properly and interpreted sensibly.
A typical approach includes:
Site review and context
- Confirming system type (septic tank vs treatment plant)
- Understanding expected flows and usage
- Reviewing any history of ponding, odours, or failures
Test location planning
- Selecting suitable test areas based on proposed drainage field location
- Considering access, ground conditions, and practical installation constraints
Testing and results
- Carrying out the percolation test procedure to measure infiltration rate
- Recording results clearly
- Explaining what the results mean for your project
Practical recommendations
- Whether a drainage field is likely to be viable
- High-level guidance on next steps for installation/repair planning
- Identifying risks (e.g., very slow drainage, high water table indicators)
To book a test, email contactus@icedrainage.co.uk.
What If the Ground Doesn’t Percolate Well?
Not every site is suitable for a standard drainage field.
If percolation is poor, we’ll help you understand the implications and options — which may include:
- Reviewing alternative locations on the site
- Considering system upgrades or changes to reduce loading
- Planning remedial works for an existing failing field
The key is avoiding a “fit it and hope” approach.
Percolation Testing for Failed Drainage Fields
If your soakaway/leach field has already failed, percolation testing can help confirm whether:
- The original field was undersized for the loading
- Ground conditions have changed or are unsuitable
- The field is saturated due to upstream issues (sludge carryover, poor effluent quality)
This helps you plan the right fix — and avoid repeating the same problem.
Why Choose ICE Drainage?
We support commercial and hospitality clients who need clear answers and practical outcomes.
- London & Home Counties coverage
- Commercial-first approach (hospitality and FM)
- Competitive pricing and straightforward advice
- Safety-led engineers working to industry standards
- Credentials: Safe Contractor, SSSTS, Constructionline Gold
ICE Drainage is a specialist service expansion of ICE Cleaning, a leading sewage cleaning company in the UK.
Book Percolation Testing
To arrange percolation testing for a septic tank or treatment plant project, call 0203 870 1067 or email contactus@icedrainage.co.uk.
We cover London and the Home Counties and can support new installations, upgrades, and investigations for failing drainage fields.