Soakaway Installation & Flood Water Control by TWL Groundworks
Sustainable Drainage Solutions (SuDS) for Homes, Businesses & New Developments
Managing excess surface water is becoming increasingly important with the rise in heavy rainfall, impermeable surfaces, and urban flooding. At TWL Groundworks, we specialise in the installation of reinforced soakaways—a sustainable and efficient flood water control method for domestic, commercial, and industrial applications.
Our recent soakaway installation project, built with reinforced concrete chambers, was completed to the highest standard. We’ll be showcasing a full set of images on our website, documenting the excavation, construction, and backfill stages of this project.
Whether you're tackling persistent garden flooding or planning drainage for a multi-property development, our engineered soakaway systems offer reliable, regulation-compliant results.
Table of Contents
What Is a Soakaway and How Does It Work?
Benefits of Soakaway Systems
TWL Groundworks' Soakaway Services
Recent Project: Reinforced Soakaway Installation
Planning Permission & Building Regulations
Why Choose TWL Groundworks?
FAQs
1. What Is a Soakaway and How Does It Work?
A soakaway is a drainage system designed to manage surface water runoff. Water from roofs, driveways, and hard landscaping is collected and diverted into an underground pit or crate system, where it gradually disperses into the surrounding ground.
At TWL Groundworks, we offer:
Reinforced concrete soakaways
Modular plastic crate soakaways
Combined SuDS systems with overflow outlets
Soakaways are typically installed at least 5 metres from a building and positioned in well-draining soil for maximum efficiency.
2. Benefits of Soakaway Systems
✔️ Reduces flood risk during heavy rainfall
✔️ Minimises surface water pooling on driveways or lawns
✔️ Eco-friendly and compliant with SuDS (Sustainable Drainage Systems)
✔️ Low maintenance with long-term performance
✔️ Meets building control requirements for new builds and extensions
Soakaways are an ideal solution for rural homes, new developments, and even commercial car parks with high volumes of water run-off.
3. TWL Groundworks’ Soakaway Services
We offer turnkey soakaway drainage solutions, including:
Site survey and percolation testing
Soil suitability assessment
System design to suit flow rates and usage
Excavation and reinforced chamber/crate installation
Pipework, filter beds, and backfill
Surface reinstatement and landscaping
Our installations are designed to last, using reinforced materials and compliant layouts for lasting performance.
4. Recent Project: Reinforced Soakaway Installation
We recently completed a reinforced soakaway project on a residential development prone to water logging and winter flooding.
✅ Reinforced soakaway chamber constructed using high-strength concrete
✅ Perforated pipework installed to optimise drainage
✅ Geotextile membrane applied to prevent silt clogging
✅ Backfilled with clean stone for optimal water filtration
📷 Visit our gallery to view step-by-step images from excavation to completed install.
5. Planning Permission & Building Regulations
Most domestic soakaways do not require planning permission, but must adhere to:
Building Regulations Part H
British Standard BS EN 752 & BS 8301
Environment Agency guidelines (especially in flood zones)
TWL Groundworks ensures full compliance, including method statements, drawings, and certification for inspections.
6. Why Choose TWL Groundworks?
✔️ Experienced installers of flood control & drainage systems
✔️ Reinforced options for high-flow areas or vehicle load-bearing sites
✔️ Accredited by Constructionline, CHAS & Achilles
✔️ Projects delivered on schedule and within budget
✔️ Operating across Somerset, Bristol, North Somerset & South Wales
We understand the impact poor drainage can have—and we offer practical, lasting solutions for every site type.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How long does it take to install a soakaway system?
A: Typically 1–2 days for domestic installs, and 3–5 days for reinforced or commercial systems.
Q2: How do I know if my garden needs a soakaway?
A: If you experience surface water pooling or waterlogging after rain, a soakaway can improve drainage and reduce flood risk.
Q3: Do reinforced soakaways require different maintenance?
A: No, but they are stronger, last longer, and can handle higher water volumes and loading from vehicles.
Q4: Can soakaways be used with rainwater harvesting systems?
A: Yes, we can install soakaways alongside or downstream of rainwater harvesting tanks.
Q5: Are soakaways suitable for clay soil?
A: Usually not ideal. We perform a percolation test and may suggest alternative drainage if clay is present.
Talk to the Drainage Experts
If you're experiencing water problems on your site or planning a new build, TWL Groundworks can install a professional soakaway system that protects your land and structures from flooding.
Whether it’s a small residential install or a large commercial drainage solution, we tailor our service to your specific needs.
Get in Touch
📍 Visit: https://www.twlgroundworks.co.uk
📧 Email: twlgroundworks@gmail.com
📞 Call / WhatsApp: 07702 518898