Go-to-Spain ::: Article: Septic tanks & sewage disposal

Many properties in rural and more remote areas of Spain are not on mains sewerage. Septic tanks and Cesspits are the alternative. If the property is quite old, these will have been made of concrete. Modern septic tanks are made of fibreglass. There are new EU guidelines governing such installations, and it is likely if you purchase an older property that you will, at some point in the future, need to replace the existing sewerage system with one which complies with the latest regulations.

Septic tanks: These are very efficient and are a mini sewage-treatment system in themselves. They comprise two tanks, and there is an active bacterium present which breaks down waste matter to liquid and renders it harmless; the liquid then soaks away. However, some treated sludge will remain in the bottom of the tank, and this has to be emptied annually. A lorry will come and pump it out and tranport it away. The efficiency of the bacterium's action can be seriously reduced by the use of 'biological' washing powders and chemical lavatory and sink cleaners; it is sensible to use only environmentally friendly cleaning products.

Cesspits: These are simply below-ground concrete or brick 'holding tanks'. The raw sewage is not treated and has to be emptied frequently - at least twice a year by lorry and pump.

Both septic tanks and cesspits, if they are old, may crack and lead to leakage. This is obviously more unpleasant and serious in a cesspit. Urgent remedial action is necessary if a crack occurs in either system.

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