Soakaway Design & Installation
Expert soakaway design and installation services. We manage surface water effectively for domestic and commercial properties.
When surface water has nowhere to go, it pools, floods, and damages property. A properly designed and installed soakaway is the most effective, environmentally friendly way to manage surface water runoff from roofs, driveways, and patios. At Clever Works, we don't just dig holes and fill them with rubble; we engineer precise, compliant soakaway systems tailored to your property's specific soil conditions and drainage requirements.
Whether you are building a new extension, paving a driveway, or replacing a failed existing soakaway, getting the design right is critical. An undersized or poorly sited soakaway will quickly fail, leading to waterlogged gardens and potential structural issues. We handle the entire process, from initial percolation testing to final installation and sign-off.
What is a Soakaway?
A soakaway is essentially a large underground pit filled with permeable material or specialized attenuation crates. It collects surface water from your gutters and drains, storing it temporarily before allowing it to slowly percolate back into the surrounding earth. This prevents the local sewer network from becoming overwhelmed during heavy rainfall.
Why Choose Clever Works?
Drainage isn't guesswork. With over 10 years of experience, 550+ surveys completed, and 250+ five-star reviews, Clever Works brings engineering precision to every project. We are SafeContractor accredited and JIB-PMES certified. We don't cut corners with cheap materials; we use BSI-tested crates and geotextile membranes to ensure your soakaway lasts for decades without silting up.
What to Expect: Our Process
- Site Assessment & Testing: We start with a BRE365 percolation test to measure your soil's drainage rate.
- Design & Calculation: Based on the test results and the impermeable surface area, we calculate the exact volume required for your soakaway.
- Excavation & Installation: Our team carefully excavates the site, installs the geotextile membrane and attenuation crates, and connects the pipework.
- Backfill & Reinstatement: We backfill the area and reinstate your garden or driveway, leaving the site clean and tidy.
Local Expertise in Farnham & Surrey
In Farnham and the surrounding Surrey towns like Godalming and Haslemere, we encounter a wide variety of soil types—from the free-draining sandy soils near the heathlands to the heavy, slow-draining clay found in other pockets. Heavy clay requires much larger soakaway volumes or alternative attenuation systems. Our deep understanding of local Surrey geology ensures that the soakaway we design for your Farnham property will actually work, satisfying local building control requirements the first time.
Don't risk a flooded garden with a poorly designed drainage system.
Call Clever Works today on 01932 544 095 or visit our contact page to arrange a site visit and percolation test.
Need Expert Assistance?
At CleverWorks, we provide comprehensive drainage solutions with transparent pricing and no hidden fees. Get in touch today for a free, no-obligation quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my soakaway has failed?
Common signs include water pooling in your garden, overflowing gutters during heavy rain, or consistently soggy ground near the soakaway location.
How far from the house should a soakaway be?
Building regulations state that a soakaway must be located at least 5 meters away from any building foundations to prevent structural damage.
Do I need planning permission for a soakaway?
Installing a soakaway usually falls under permitted development, but building control approval is required, especially for new builds or extensions.
Can I run wastewater into a soakaway?
No, soakaways are strictly for rainwater and surface water. Wastewater from toilets or sinks requires a septic tank or sewage treatment plant.