Catchpits, Cesspits & Sumps

It will be a rare New Zealander who has not seen a catchpit. Catchpits, also known as cesspits and sumps, tend to be the first line of defence of most drainage networks. With catchpits receiving so much water they also can collect large amounts of silt, litter, vegetation and debris.

As stormwater flows into the catchpit, solids and debris settle at the bottom, while cleaner water passes through the outlet and continues through the drainage network. This process helps prevent blockages and protects downstream infrastructure and waterways from pollution.

When catchpits are well-maintained, they effectively trap solids and silt, allowing clean water to flow unimpeded. However, if left unmaintained, outlets can become blocked, leading to flooding and property damage.

At Dutton Stormwater, we provide professional catchpit maintenance services across New Zealand to keep your stormwater management system efficient and compliant. Our team inspects, cleans, and removes accumulated debris, ensuring your catchpits continue to function as intended.

Catchpits typically require maintenance every six to twelve months, depending on sediment loading and site conditions. During each service, we review the catchpit’s condition and includes a job summary with any recommendations in your service report.