Why does my garden smell like sewage near the soakaway area

Why sewage smells appear in the garden

A sewage smell usually means that the soakaway is not draining wastewater correctly. Soil around the soakaway can become compacted or saturated over time. When the soil cannot absorb liquid, the effluent remains close to the surface. This lingering wastewater is often the source of the smell.

Another common cause is a full septic tank. If septic tank emptying has been delayed, the tank cannot separate waste efficiently. Too much waste pushes untreated liquids into the soakaway, which overwhelms it. Many homeowners do not realise how often emptying a septic tank is needed, which makes regular septic tank services very important.

A blockage may also be responsible. Grease, non biodegradable waste, or build up inside the tank can slow the flow of liquid. A blocked outlet pipe can do the same. Septic tank cleaning and septic tank pumping prevent these situations and restore proper function.

A sewage smell is rarely isolated. It is usually the first sign that the system is struggling and needs attention.

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Recognising early warning signs

The smell is the clearest warning, but other signs are just as important. You might see a patch of grass that looks unusually green or soft. This can happen when the ground soaks up more water than normal. In some cases, the grass may die back because the soil becomes too wet.

Slow draining sinks, toilets, and showers inside the home can also point to a problem. Gurgling noises from drains may appear as well. These signs show that the drainage system is finding it difficult to keep up. Septic tank inspections carried out early can prevent further damage.

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Regulations and why they matter

Many homeowners in Dorset and along the South Coast have heard about the General Binding Rules. These rules set standards for how septic tanks and soakaways must operate. They protect local water, wildlife, and the wider environment.

If your septic system is not treating wastewater properly, it may no longer meet the regulations. A sewage smell in the garden can be an early sign of this. Prompt action protects the environment and helps bring the system back within the rules.

How sewage smells affect your home and surroundings

The smell itself is unpleasant but usually not dangerous. However, it does suggest that untreated wastewater may be collecting underground. Over time, this can affect the soil, nearby plants, and even local water sources.

Untreated wastewater can disrupt the natural balance of the soil. It may also reach streams, ditches, or watercourses if left unresolved. This is especially important on the South Coast and in Dorset, where many homes sit near fields, rivers, and coastal areas.

Sewage smells indicate that something unhealthy is happening underground. The sooner the issue is identified, the easier it is to resolve.

What you can check yourself

There are a few simple checks you can make safely. You can walk gently around the soakaway area to see if the ground feels soft or waterlogged. You can also observe the drains inside your home. Slow drainage or indoor smells can suggest a wider issue.

You should never open the septic tank lid. The gases inside can be harmful and the tank itself can be dangerous. This work must be handled by trained professionals such as tank installation contractors or specialists in septic tank service.

When to call a professional

If the smell continues for more than a short time, it is wise to arrange a septic tank service. A professional can check whether the tank needs pumping, whether there is a blockage, or whether the soakaway is no longer working correctly.

Regular septic tank emptying and good system care are the best ways to prevent soakaway failure. Many rural homes in Dorset and the South Coast rely on septic tanks, so maintenance is essential. Systems that are cared for properly can last for many years.

A professional can also explain whether the soakaway has reached the end of its life. Soil type, household size, and local conditions all influence how long a soakaway remains effective. If a replacement is needed, tank installation contractors can design a suitable system that meets current guidance and protects your property.

Reassurance for homeowners

A sewage smell in the garden may feel alarming, but it is often something that can be resolved with timely action. The key is to recognise the smell as a sign that the system needs attention. By acting early, you protect your home, your surroundings, and the environment.

Good habits such as regular septic tank inspections and proper upkeep keep systems working well for many years. The smell does not usually mean disaster. It simply means the system is asking for help.