While it is a myth that property owners in the State of Western Australia must have a soakwell on their premises, ordinances in different municipalities have various specific requirements regarding soakwells. The law states that property owners in all of Western Australia must contain any storm water run-off within their property limits. Failing to confine the storm water typically results in a non-compliance order. Repeated offenses will have escalating consequences. Refer to the Western Australian Building and Construction Industry Code of Conduct for more information.
Protect you Home or Business
Even if your business or home is in an area where storm water containment is not a problem for you, installing a soakwell is a smart idea. Allowing water to settle next to your foundation will quickly lead to significant structural damage. Downspouts connected to a soakwell carry away even the heaviest downpours. Removing the excess rainwater will prevent leaks, flooding, cracks and other kinds of damage from water backing up to your foundation. While installing a soakwell may seem costly, it is a good way to prevent even more expensive repairs in the long run.
Prevent Soil Erosion
Sudden storms pop up frequently in Western Australia. If your property is comprised mainly of clay covered by a thin layer of topsoil, an intense storm with heavy rain can easily wash away your good soil. Once your soil begins to erode, it is challenging to halt or reverse the process. A soakwell will protect your soil and help to keep it in place.
Protect your paved surfaces
If the paved areas around your home or business receive constant exposure to extensive rainfall as well as runoff, they will eventually sag and crack from the excess storm water. In addition to looking unsightly, the pavement is not safe as cracked and uneven concrete leads to falls. By installing a soakwell, you can keep your paved surfaces safe and maintained all year long.
Help protect the Environment
As the suburbs and population of Western Australia grow, the area of solid, impermeable space also increases. As this trend continues, the natural water table shrinks exponentially. A soakwell on your property increases the amount of rainwater returning to the water table. When rain that collects in gutters and on solid outdoor surfaces flows to a soakwell, it will slowly enter the water table. Allowing the runoff to complete the natural water cycle, as opposed to ending up in a storm drain, helps to sustain the water table.
Because storm water drainage is a common issue in Western Australia, we here at Septics and Soakwells WA strongly recommend installing a soakwell on your property. If your property has a soakwell, we can inspect it and help you avoid future problems. We take pride in knowing that the soakwells we install can provide our customers with the peace of mind which comes from knowing a quality soakwell is protecting their homes or business.
To get in contact with us click this number to call: 0400 665 312 or fill out our contact form.