Use Checktrade’s free directory below to find reputable oil tank fitters near you and learn about the installation regulations you must follow.
How to find oil tank fitters near me
Look through our approved tradespeople by searching your postcode in the box below.
You’ll be able to see your Checkatrade-approved and reputable oil tank fitters near you.
Short on time? Use our request a quote feature and we’ll get approved local tradespeople to contact you directly.
Who fits oil tanks?
We recommend hiring an engineer registered with OFTEC (Oil Firing Technical Association) to fit your oil tank safely.
By hiring a professional tradesperson, you can be sure your oil tank installation complies with building regulations and OFTEC standards (more on that in our FAQs below).
Top tip – If you hire an engineer registered to OFTEC or the Competent Person Scheme, they can self-certify the oil tank fitting complies with building regulations.
This means you don’t need approval from your local building control, saving you time in the long run.
You’ll only find trades who meet our high standards and pass our quality checks on Checkatrade.
How much to fit a new oil tank in the UK?
The cost of fitting a new oil tank depends on whether you install the tank inside, outside or underground.
To give you a rough idea, the average oil tank installation cost is about £1,000.
This cost covers labour and materials to install a new tank assuming minor modifications to an existing outdoor base. It excludes the supply of a new tank.
The average cost for an underground tank will be around £10,000. This includes the cover design, supply of a 1,400-litre tank, excavation, and installation.
However, we recommend speaking to your local oil tank specialists for accurate costs in your area.
Top tip – Don’t be tempted to buy a second-hand oil tank to cut costs. Older tanks may have structural issues due to wear and tear that are difficult to spot – leaving you with leaks and costly repairs in the future.
How much does it cost to replace an oil tank near me?
If you already have an oil tank, then you’ll need to consider the cost of replacing it.
The price of replacing an existing oil tank can vary considerably, ranging from £1,500 – £4,000 – depending on the type, size and location of the tank.
An average price of £2,500 would cover:
- Supply of a new tank
- Removal of an existing tank
- Minor modifications to an existing outdoor base
- Installation of a new tank
You can dive deeper into the costs by reading our guide to oil tank installation costs.
How long does it take to fit a new oil tank?
How long it takes a qualified engineer to fit an oil tank depends on a few different factors, including:
- The size of the tank
- Where you plan to install it – your oil tank fitter can advise whether it needs to be inside, outside or underground
- If there is an existing oil tank that needs to be removed
- If a base for the tank already exists
- If an oil line needs to be trenched
However, on average, it should take about four hours to a day to complete the installation.
How to find reputable oil tank fitters near me
Ready to find a qualified engineer near you to fit your oil tank safely?
Follow these three simple steps:
- Use a professional directory
Make your life easy by searching with a professional directory (like Checkatrade!)
We’re so confident in the quality of the trades on Checkatrade that if you book through us, we guarantee their work up to £1,000. Guaranteed for 12 months – Eligibility criteria and T&Cs apply.
Find and book your trade with us and we'll guarantee their work up to £1,000*.
- Read online reviews
There’s no better testament to a tradesperson’s professionalism than a previous customer’s review.
At Checkatrade, we check all online reviews to ensure they’re from real people and that trades meet our high standards.
- Compare quotes
It’s always wise to get at least three quotes from reputable professionals. That way, you can be sure you’re getting the best tradesperson and price for the job.
Ready to find qualified oil tank fitters in your area? Search your postcode to get started.
FAQs
How much does a domestic oil tank cost?
The average cost of a standard oil tank is around £1,000.
Can I install my own oil tank?
Technically, anyone can install an oil tank. But remember, if you choose to install the oil tank yourself, you must contact your Local Authority Building Control department afterwards to approve the installation.
Installing an oil tank isn’t an easy job. Only attempt it yourself if you have the skills and experience to do the job safely and efficiently.
We would always recommend hiring a professional oil tank installer for the job:
What is the life expectancy of an oil tank?
That all depends on the tank’s design, the material it is made from, and its thickness. On average, you’re looking at 15 to 25 years before replacing your oil tank.
How do I know when my oil tank needs replacing?
If your heating system isn’t performing as it should, it might be time for a new oil tank. After an annual service, a heating engineer will let you know if your oil tank needs replacing.
Top tip – Along with an annual maintenance check by a qualified engineer, you should check your oil tank at least once a month for signs of damage or leaks.
Do you need planning permission to install an oil tank?
As of 2022, you don’t need planning permission if your oil tank is:
- No higher than 3 metres
- Total height is no more than 2.5 metres if it’s within 2 metres of a boundary
- Isn’t located in front of a main elevation fronting a highway
The only exception to this rule is if you live in a listed property. In this case, you’ll need planning permission to install a new oil tank.
How far away from the house does an oil tank have to be?
Your oil tank needs to be installed 1.8 metres from your house. The same rule applies to outbuildings or summer houses if they have doors or windows. This ensures safe access for tank maintenance and reduces the risk of fire hazards.
Will an engineer provide me with a safety certificate?
If your oil tank is fitted by an OFTEC-registered engineer, you will be issued a CD10 completion report. This handy report records installation details, which are then registered with OFTEC.