When to Install a New Drainage System

If you're wondering whether it's time to install a new drainage system, you're not alone. At Alton Facility Services, we help homeowners, builders, and businesses across the UK identify when to upgrade, replace, or install new drainage infrastructure.

1. Building a New Property or Extension

Planning a new build, extension, or garden room? You’ll likely need a new drain installation to connect foul and surface water runoff to the mains, a septic tank, or a treatment plant.

2. Old or Failing Drainage Systems

Properties with ageing clay or pitch fibre pipes often experience issues like blockages, odours, or ground movement. If you’re spending money on repeat repairs, it’s usually more cost-effective to install a modern, long-term drainage solution.

3. Flooding or Poor Water Runoff

Water pooling around your home or garden? You may need a soakaway or land drainage system installed. These prevent water damage, damp, and foundation problems caused by poor surface water management.

4. Change of Use or Commercial Upgrades

If you’re converting a property for commercial use or expanding a site, the existing drainage may not meet Building Regulations or capacity requirements. We assess flow rates and install compliant systems tailored to your project.

5. Connecting to a New Foul or Surface Water Main

When new connections are required to mains sewers or surface water systems, we handle Section 106 applications, trenching, and full connection works in line with local authority standards.

6. Failed Soakaways or Septic Systems

If your existing soakaway or tank is failing and causing backups, pollution, or non-compliance, we provide fast, safe, and fully certified installations. We can also replace foul lines and distribution pipes where needed.

7. Site Redevelopment or Landscaping Projects

Upgrading your garden, driveway, or commercial site? This is the perfect time to install new surface water drainage, ACO channels, sump pumps, or land drains — all installed by qualified professionals.

Signs You Might Need a Drainage System Installed

• Persistent damp or waterlogged soil
• Standing water after rainfall
• Unpleasant drain odours or backups
• Cracked or subsiding ground near old pipework
• New development requiring foul/surface drainage
• Environmental Health or Building Control notices

From domestic properties to large commercial developments, Alton Facility Services installs drainage systems designed to meet your site requirements, budget, and timescale.

How We Install Drains

At Alton Facility Services, we combine traditional expertise with modern technology to deliver professional drain installations across the UK. From small domestic soakaways to complete foul and surface water systems for commercial developments, our drainage installations are built to last.

✔️ Trenching & Pipe Laying

For most drain installations, we carry out controlled excavation using mini diggers and trench shoring systems. Our engineers lay new pipework — typically 110mm or 160mm PVCu — at the correct gradients to ensure smooth flow. All trenchwork is carefully backfilled and reinstated to its original condition wherever possible.

✔️ Trenchless Moling (No-Dig Technology)

To minimise disruption to driveways, gardens, and landscaping, we use trenchless moling equipment. This allows us to install new drain runs or ducts beneath the surface without open excavation — ideal for adding new foul or surface drains to existing properties.

✔️ Surface Water Drainage Systems

We install ACO channels, French drains, soakaways, and land drains to manage rainwater, prevent flooding, and keep properties dry. These systems are especially effective in waterlogged or clay-based soil areas.

✔️ Foul Drainage Connections

For new homes, extensions, or commercial premises, we connect foul drains to mains sewers or private systems such as treatment plants. Our team also handles Section 106 applications and Building Control notifications as part of the process.

✔️ Pumped Drainage & Sump Systems

Where gravity drainage isn’t possible — for example in basements or low-lying land — we install sump pumps and pumping stations to move wastewater efficiently. These include control panels, alarms, and backflow protection for complete reliability.

✔️ Manhole & Inspection Chamber Installations

We fit both plastic and concrete inspection chambers to allow easy access, maintenance, and compliance. Manholes are sized and positioned according to Building Regulations Part H and integrated into the overall drainage layout from the outset.

✔️ Commercial Drainage Installation

From car parks and retail sites to housing developments and industrial facilities, our commercial drainage team works on new builds, refurbishments, and infrastructure projects across the UK. We follow CDM regulations, provide RAMS documentation, and deliver safely and to specification every time.

Every Installation Includes:

• ✔ Full site assessment and drainage design
• ✔ Accurate levels, flow rates, and fall gradients
• ✔ High-quality pipework and fittings (BS EN 1401)
• ✔ Expert installation by certified engineers
• ✔ Building Regulations and British Standards compliance
• ✔ CCTV testing and handover pack on completion

Our drainage installations are trusted by homeowners, developers, landlords, and commercial contractors alike — because we do it properly, the first time.

Drain Installation Experts You Can Trust

Looking for trusted drain installers near you? Alton Facility Services is your go-to team for professional drain installation across the UK. From domestic soakaways to large-scale commercial systems, our experienced engineers deliver drainage that works — first time, every time.

🏠 Domestic & Commercial Drain Installation

We provide a complete range of drain installation services for homeowners, landlords, developers, and businesses. Whether it’s a single property or a full site development, our engineers install drainage systems designed for performance and compliance.

• ✔ Domestic drain installation for homes, gardens, and extensions
• ✔ Commercial drainage systems for offices, shops, and hospitality venues
• ✔ Site-wide drainage layouts for new builds and developments
• ✔ Surface water systems including soakaways and land drains
• ✔ Foul drainage connections to mains sewers or treatment plants

📍 Drain Installers With Nationwide Coverage

While our head office is based in Hampshire, our expert drainage teams operate throughout the South East and across the UK. We regularly complete projects in Surrey, West Sussex, Kent, Berkshire, London, and beyond — delivering quality installations wherever they’re needed.

Why Choose Alton Facility Services?

• ✅ Proven expertise: Decades of experience in drainage installation and repair across domestic and commercial sectors.
• ✅ Fast response: Quick site visits, transparent quotations, and efficient project delivery.
• ✅ Fully insured & qualified: All works are carried out by trained, accredited drainage engineers.
• ✅ Guaranteed results: We use high-quality materials and modern techniques to ensure long-term reliability.
• ✅ Clear pricing: Honest, transparent quotes tailored to your property and drainage needs.

Whether you need a brand-new drainage system installed or a full replacement of your existing network, Alton Facility Services provides the tools, knowledge, and reliability to get it done right.

Drain Installation FAQs