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The typical cost to install an oil tank, including labor and materials, usually falls within the range of £3,000 to £4,000.
Installing an oil tank in the UK is a significant investment, with prices typically ranging between £2,000 and £4,500. This price can fluctuate based on several factors, including the type and size of the tank, whether it's above or below ground, the complexity of the installation, and any additional work required, like excavation or old tank removal.
In a rural section of the UK or where a way of connecting to the mains gas grid is not available, fitting an oil tank is a necessary part of establishing an off-grid heating network. Whether you need to purchase a replacement for an old tank or simply install a new one, you should know what the overall cost of the process is so that you can plan your budget correctly and not face unexpected expenses.
This cost guide can be separated into everything you need to know about the installation of oil tanks in the UK including the types of oil tanks, how much they are expected to cost, the prices of the associated construction work, whether or not you require planning permission, what are the safety considerations, and the maintenance aspects and also how to save money.
It is estimated that a domestic oil tank costs between £2,000 and £4,500 to be installed in the UK, depending on numerous factors such as the size of the tank, the material to be used, the location in terms of access, as well as any other additional services to be performed. On one hand, simple and basic jobs may turn out cheaper than projected, but at the same time, an advanced system or a distant area can be more expensive.
One of the largest percentages of the total cost goes to the oil tank itself. Examples of domestic tanks include most tanks that are between 1,000 and 2,500 litres. The cost of a smaller and single-skin plastic tank ought to begin at approximately £800, whereas a larger and bunded steel tank may reach as much as £2,000.
An oil tank should be placed on a fire-proof level platform which can bear its weight at full capacity. The cost of installing this base, often handled by concrete contractors, may range between £250 and £750, based on the size of the tank and whether the ground is in good condition.
The groundwork can be minimal in case your garden or yard is already level and acceptable. However, this is not guaranteed in places where excavations may be required or some other material might be necessary such as concrete which is going to increase the cost.
When the tank is mounted, you should pipe it to your boiler system by using the appropriate fuel pipes, valves, and filters. This can cost between £300 and £700, depending on the distance between the tank and the boiler, how complex the routing is, and whether existing pipework can be reused.
The cost is pushed up the longer the route or the more complicated the route, the more labour and materials are required.
The UK requires the services of a heating engineer or OFTEC-registered technician to support the regulations. A professional installation is essential to achieve every legal and safety requirement. Labour costs typically fall between £600 and £1,200, which includes positioning the tank, securing it in place, setting up pipework, testing for leaks, and ensuring compliance with UK building and environmental regulations.
In the event the job is to be carried out in tight areas or working with big gear, it might take longer, and more money might be charged.
In addition, in the event that you are replacing a tank, you will also have to take into consideration the cost of safely disposing of the old tank. This typically adds an extra £250 to £600 to the project and requires a waste clearance service.
The sizes of oil tanks vary depending on the application though it is normally between 1,000 and 2,500 litres capacity in residential areas. The larger the tank, the more costly it will be.
In a bunded tank, there is a second wall (effectively a tank within a tank) which adds additional protection in case of a leak, which is now a legal requirement in most installations. They are also very environmentally friendly and safe, and recommended, and can cost 30-50% more than single-skinned tanks.
In case your place of installation is either remote or not easily accessible, not close to your house, or on a slant, it complicates matters and increases labour charges.
The weight of a full tank should have a proper base to hold. This can be a concrete slab, paving slabs, or a prefabricated tank stand. Costs vary based on size and material but generally fall between £250 and £750.
The pipe cabin that links the tank to your boiler has to comply with certain laws and safety standards. The expenses are subject to the length and standard of connections.
The extraction of an old oil tank (particularly a metal tank with some oil in it) requires professional treatment. Expect to pay £250 to £600 for safe disposal.
A planning permission is normally not required for most of the oil tank structures unless:
Just to be on the safe side, consult your local planning authority.
Your fitting has to comply with UK Building Regulations. A self-certification can be an OFTEC-registered installer. If not, you’ll need building control to inspect the installation—this could cost around £150 to £300.
Your tank has to be found:
If your site doesn’t meet these clearances, additional fire protection measures may be needed, like fire-resistant barriers, which can cost £100 to £400 extra.
All of the tanks include basic oil level gauges, but you may prefer to buy a remote or smart monitor. These add around £50 to £200.
In certain jurisdictions, oil theft is a threat. You can think of putting locks, cages, or CCTV:
After you have put up an oil tank, it will need constant maintenance:
Keeping a maintenance log is also a good idea, both in terms of insurance and when it comes to resale.
These comply with most standards and provide a high level of safety, and come cheaper than steel.
During the warm months, the demand loses its ground, so the rates of installers can become lower.
Possible labour cost reduction can be done through combining jobs, like when replacing the heating system.
When considering an installer, always ensure that you compare at least 3 quotes from installers who have become OFTEC registered.
Look at some councils that may provide grants or energy efficiency schemes, and ask your local authority.
The problem of oil leaks is a hazard to the environment. Most installations are currently under the rules of the UK that mandate use of bunded tanks most especially in close proximity to water sources.
Always:
The lack of observance may cause punishment with hefty fines and clean-up expenses, not always included in a standard home insurance policy.
You may need a new tank if:
Never wait to replace it; old tanks may be a source of fire and an environmental hazard.
The oil tank has to be put in a place with an appropriate base. It has to be:
Common options:
Small homes can use a 1,000-litre tank. They are best suited to one- or two-bedroom cottages or bungalows. These tanks are small in size and can be fitted in a tight place. They cost about £800 to £1,000. You will have to replenish more frequently, yet they are ideal to use in homes where there will be less oil consumption.
Two or three-bedroom houses are good with a 1250-litre tank. It contains larger amounts of oil, and thus, you will not have so many deliveries. These tanks cost between £1,000 and £1,200.
Larger homes are good to have a 2,000-litre tank. It is applicable in four-bedroom homes or buildings that consume a high amount of oil. These tanks cost around £1,400 to £1,700. They allow the purchase of oil in large quantities, which may be cost-effective.
The amount will vary depending on the tank you select, conditions on site and the degree of security you need. Initial fees may be expensive but the safe and regulatory installation will provide heating in future.
Never hesitate to call on the OFTEC registered professionals, familiarize yourself with the local regulations, as well as have a maintenance plan. In that way, not only will you be preserving your home and surroundings, but also increase the worth of your investment.
Costs of various services and materials in this cost guide should be taken as estimates. These depend on location, preference and demands in the market.