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Soakaway Repair and Replacement in Bournemouth and Throughout Dorset

Excessive rainfall may cause soakaways to clog, which can also lead to flooding. If you’re experiencing problems with your existing soakaway system, our experts are here to help!

At Canford Drains, we have rectified a wide array of soakaway issues for both commercial and domestic clients in Bournemouth and the surrounding areas in Dorset. Our skilled drainage engineers can repair or replace your soakaway system to prevent any further problems with flooding and waterlogging.

Get in touch with Canford Drains today on 01202 880202 or fill out our Contact Form to arrange a callout. Our services are available throughout Bournemouth, Poole and the surrounding areas in Dorset.

What is a soakaway – and how does it work?

Soakaways are durable, resilient drainage systems designed to remove water from your property. They are often installed to prevent flooding, waterlogging and standing water.

In the simplest terms, they are holes dug into the ground that are covered over with turf. The holes are filled with coarse stones and rubble. This creates small pockets that are free from soil and earth, which allows water to flow away from your property, through the stone-filled holes and into the earth.

Soakaways are designed so that the excess water is diverted beneath ground level, although not deep enough to damage any nearby structures. Instead, the water is absorbed quickly and safely by the soil.

Soakaway Replacement and Repairs in Bournemouth and Poole

Soakaway Specialists in Bournemouth and Poole

How do soakaways become blocked?

When silt, leaves and other debris is washed into the soakaway, this can prevent it from collecting rainwater to be percolated into the soil. This problem may not be immediately apparent, but many customers call us once they notice water pooling out at surface level.

How can you unblock soakaways?

In many cases, our engineers can unblock soakaways using high-pressured water jets to remove any buildup. This may restore your soakaway to working order, so long as the blockage is not too severe and there are no underlying issues.

What if my soakaway can’t be unblocked?

If it is not possible to unblock your soakaway, we will then need to excavate a new soakaway (or the same soakaway, after tracing) – and then install a brand new soakaway system.

All soakaway systems must be located at least five meters from the wall of a building and a minimum of two and a half meters from the boundary. This will help prevent damage to the wall and rainwater flowing into any neighbouring properties.

What Our Customers Say

"Highly Reccomended"

Gerry came to clear a blocked drain. He was very professional, courteous, and friendly. He did a fantastic job, and tested all junctions down to the road to ensure that everything is in perfect working order. He explained how the various junctions worked; foul water & surface water drainage. Excellent service. Highly recommended

"A Very Efficiently Organised Job"

This company is definitely one for the house address book. Our house is old and the drain needed not just unblocking but to have accumulated debris removed and the drain to be flushed. All this Gerry accomplished, along with explanations and advice (diplomat!) as he worked. A very efficiently organised job from the appointment-booking through to completion and a company to be highly recommended.

"Efficient, Clear and Informative!"

Gerry did a Great job!!! ?? very efficient, clear and informative. Quick to locate the problem with our flooded drain and prompt in clearing the issue had. Would definitely use this service again if needed, highly recommend. ??

"Unblocked drain"

Unblocked a drain which I was unable to free up myself with drain rods. Very efficient,] unblocked the drain which followed an odd route to join my neighbours drain. Cleaned through thoroughly and also located two man hole covers which were buried under my driveway. Should any problems occur in the future I know where thet are now ! Excellent service. Thank you Darren. .