Last updated on August 31st, 2022
Cost of removing water tank
If you’re upgrading to a new heating system, one of the jobs you’ll need to do is remove your old water tank. In this guide, we’ll look at the average cost to remove a water tank, including disposal. We’ll also cover the cost of installing a combi boiler and removing a water tank at the same time.

If you’re upgrading to a new heating system, one of the jobs you’ll need to do is remove your old water tank. You may also need to replace your water tank if it’s old or leaking. In rare cases, where older water tanks are made from hazardous materials (i.e. lead or asbestos), removal is essential.
In this guide, we’ll look at the average cost to remove a water tank, including disposal. We’ll also cover the cost of installing a combi boiler and removing a water tank at the same time.
How much does it cost to remove a water tank?
The cost of removing a water tank largely depends on where it is and how easy or difficult it is to access. Water tanks tend to be heavy and bulky, so it can be tricky to remove them. This can be especially difficult if they’re up in the loft.
And then there’s the expense of disposing or scrapping the old tank. This should be included in the price you pay, but always make sure to ask in advance. You can expect to pay around £200 – £350 for the removal of the tank. This includes tidying up any related pipework.
Cost provided item | Low cost | High cost | Average cost |
---|---|---|---|
Removing cold water tank | £200 | £350 | £275 |
Removing hot water cylinder | £100 | £170 | £135 |
Installing combi boiler and removing water tank | £2,400 | £3,200 | £2,800 |
Our costs are ballpark averages – get a local tradesperson to quote now
Cost to remove a hot water tank
If you’re upgrading your heating system and no longer require your hot water tank (also known as a hot water cylinder), call in a professional to have it removed.
This can cost between £100 – £170, depending on whether you’re removing the tank or simply replacing it.
Cost of installing a combi boiler and removing the water tank
To replace your heating system with an efficient combi boiler and remove the old water tank, you can expect to pay around £2,800.
The total cost will depend on how complicated the job is and how easy or difficult access is. Your location can also be a factor, as heating engineers in London, for example, tend to charge more.
FAQs
How long does it take to remove a water tank?
The job of removing a water tank should be completed within a day unless there are any unforeseen issues (i.e. access problems). But if you’re having a combi boiler installed at the same time, it can take up to two and a half days.
Can I remove a water tank myself?
If you have a crew of strong assistants to help you, and you know what you’re doing, you can remove a water tank yourself. However, it’s not recommended. Water tanks tend to be heavy and awkward to remove, and scrapping them appropriately can be tricky due to their size. There’s also the issue of any remaining pipework, which will need to be tidied up properly to avoid leaks.
Olivia
Hi June, thank you for your comment. I recommend filling in our request a quote form to get quotes from tradespeople near you.
June Primrose
I need the cold water boiler and hot water tank taken away and replaced with an electric box box that heats the water from the mains.
Checkatrade
Hi Karen, I would recommend getting multiple quotes from professional tradespeople. Use our free request a quote feature to get three local quotes to you.
Karen
How much would it be to have an unused asbestos water tank removed from a loft ?