Fixington

Oil Tank Removal

Trade: Heating Engineer

⭐ Introduction

If your home uses heating oil, you might one day need to have your oil tank removed. This could be because you’re switching to a different heating system, like mains gas or a heat pump, or simply because your old tank is leaking or no longer meets safety standards. Removing an unused oil tank also reduces environmental risks, such as soil contamination or oil leaks.

Oil tank removal is a job that should be done carefully and professionally, given the potential hazards involved. In the UK, regulations require safe handling, disposal, and often a survey to check for any contamination. Whether you’re a homeowner upgrading your heating or wanting to clear out your garden, understanding the process can help you prepare and feel confident.

🔧 What the job involves

Oil tank removal involves safely emptying the tank of any remaining oil, cleaning it out, disconnecting it from your property’s heating system, and then lifting out the empty tank. The tank will then be taken away to a licensed facility for scrapping or recycling.

Here’s what typically happens:

  • Draining any leftover oil safely, preventing spills or contamination.
  • Cleaning the tank internally to remove sludge or residues.
  • Disconnecting pipes and fittings connected to the boiler or heating system.
  • Assessing the tank’s location for safe removal—this may involve groundworks or lifting equipment.
  • Removing the tank and transporting it for authorised disposal.
  • Completing any necessary soil tests if contamination is suspected.
  • Issuing a certificate or paperwork confirming safe removal and disposal.

Because oil tanks contain flammable materials and may contain hazardous residues, removal must comply with health and safety regulations and environmental laws.

📝 Step-by-step from booking to completion

  1. Enquiry: Contact a registered heating engineer or specialist oil tank removal company. They can advise on the process and compliance.
  2. Survey and quote: The engineer visits your home to inspect the tank, confirm its type and location, and assess any risks or access issues. They will provide a written quote.
  3. Booking the work: Agree on a date and any preparatory steps needed on your part, such as clearing the area around the tank.
  4. Day of works: The engineer attends with necessary equipment to drain, clean, disconnect, and safely remove the tank. They use protective gear and follow strict safety protocols.
  5. Inspection and testing: If contamination is suspected, soil samples may be taken for lab testing.
  6. Completion: The tank is taken away for disposal, and you receive documentation confirming safe removal. The engineer can also advise on next steps, such as converting your heating system.
  7. Aftercare: Keep all paperwork in case of future property sale or compliance checks.

💷 Main costs to expect

  • Labour: Typically charged per hour or as a fixed job rate depending on complexity.
  • Materials and parts: Includes pipes, fittings, capping supplies if disconnecting or making safe your heating system.
  • Disposal: Licensed oil tank disposal (scrapping and recycling fees).
  • Testing: Soil sampling and contamination testing fees, if needed.
  • Certification: Issuing of removal certificates or compliance documentation.

Example cost breakdown:

  • Labour: £250–£400
  • Materials and pipework: £50–£100
  • Disposal and scrapping: £100–£200
  • Soil contamination testing (optional): £100–£300
  • Certification/documentation: £30–£60

📊 What affects the price

  • Tank size and type: Larger or underground tanks take longer and may need specialist equipment.
  • Location and access: Difficult access (e.g., tight gardens, below ground) increases labour and equipment needs.
  • Condition: Leaking or contaminated tanks may require additional remediation.
  • Regulations and certification: Some works require official soil tests or paperwork.
  • Local disposal charges: Varies by area depending on disposal site fees.
  • Urgency: Short-notice or emergency jobs often cost more.
  • Ancillary works: Additional heating system pipework or making good after removal.

⏱ How long does it take?

Simple above-ground tank removal typically takes a few hours (3 to 6 hours) including draining and disconnection.

Underground or larger tanks can take a full day or more, particularly if excavation and soil testing are needed.

Generally:

  • Small, above-ground tank: 3–6 hours
  • Large or buried tank: 1–2 days
  • With soil contamination testing: Additional wait times for lab results (1–2 weeks)

🏠 Can you DIY it?

Removing an oil tank yourself is not recommended. It involves handling hazardous materials, strict safety standards, and proper disposal to avoid legal issues or environmental damage.

Mistakes can lead to oil leaks, soil contamination, fines, or loss of insurance cover. Also, in many cases, soil testing and safe disposal must be completed by professionals licensed for this work.

Hiring a qualified heating engineer or specialist oil tank removal company is the safest and most compliant option.

💰 Typical UK price range

You can expect oil tank removal to cost approximately £400 to £1200 + VAT depending on the factors covered above. This range includes labour, disposal, and basic certification.

Underground or complicated removals with contamination testing may cost upwards of £1500.

Always get at least two detailed quotes and check that the company is properly qualified and insured.

✅ Handy tips before you start

  • Clear the area around the tank to allow easy access.
  • Arrange alternative heating if your system will be offline during works.
  • Keep all paperwork and certificates for your records and future property sales.
  • Check your heating engineer is Gas Safe registered (if working with oil boilers) and experienced in oil tank removals.
  • Ask if the company provides soil contamination testing and remediation services.
  • Consider booking a survey well in advance, as contractors can have waiting lists.
  • After removal, plan regular heating system servicing as recommended for your new setup.

Removing your oil tank is an important step in upgrading or maintaining your home’s heating safety and efficiency. Knowing what to expect and preparing properly can make the process straightforward and stress-free.