SG Tanks are oil tank removal specialists, having served clients throughout Surrey, Sussex, Hampshire and the South East over the past 20 years.
With more than two decades’ worth of experience in oil tank removal, our team have developed an unrivalled reputation across the local area.
Oil Tank Removals
Here at SG Tanks, we offer a wide range of oil tank-related services and have helped a substantial number of customers with a variety of needs over the years.
From Surrey to Hampshire to Sussex, we understand how cumbersome and frustrating having an oil tank removed from a residential property or commercial building can be, so we make it our aim to make the process as straightforward as possible.
When you choose SG Tanks, you can expect:
- A highly professional service from a trained, experienced team
- Clear communication throughout, from start to finish
- Your property left in excellent condition once work is complete
- Responsible disposal of your old tank in an environmentally friendly manner
Tailored Removals
Wherever your oil tank may be on your property – whether it be in an underground basement or outside in the garden – our team will be able to remove it with ease.
Thanks to the 20 years’ worth of experience we have amassed since our inception, our team have seen it all – from challenging underground tank excavations to lifting and transporting above-ground tanks.
And now, because of this level of experience, we are also able to offer some of the best oil tank removal prices in the UK, helping to keep oil tank removal costs as low as possible.
If you would like to receive a tailored quote for the work required to remove an oil tank at your property, simply contact our team at your earliest convenience.
Oil Tank Removal FAQs
How do I get rid of an old oil tank?
Old oil tank removal should always be carried out by a qualified professional. The process involves:
- Safely draining any remaining oil
- Cleaning the tank interior to remove residue
- Disconnecting in accordance with Building Regulations
- Disposing of the tank at a licensed waste facility
- Notifying your local Environmental Health department if required
We offer oil tank removals across West Sussex and Surrey, contact us for a free quote.
Can I remove an oil tank myself?
While it’s not strictly illegal, DIY removal is strongly discouraged. Risks include:
- Exposure to hazardous materials inside the tank
- Environmental contamination from improper disposal
- Breaches of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 and Building Regulations
A professional can decommission and dispose of the tank safely and legally.
Why should an oil tank be removed?
An oil tank should be removed if it is:
- No longer in use or has become outdated
- At risk of leaking or already showing signs of corrosion
- Causing or at risk of causing soil or groundwater contamination
Removal also reduces fire hazards and helps maintain compliance with current regulations.
Do I need planning permission to move an oil tank?
Planning permission is not usually required to move a domestic oil tank in the UK, as long as it falls within permitted development rights and is not located in a conservation area or attached to a listed building. However, any oil tank installation or relocation has to comply with Building Regulations, particularly Approved Document J, which covers the safe storage of fuel. It is always advisable to consult your local planning authority before making changes.
Does an oil tank have to be off the ground?
It’s not a legal requirement, but raising the tank slightly off the ground is recommended because it:
- Prevents corrosion from ground moisture
- Allows easier visual inspections
- May be necessary for gravity-fed heating systems
OFTEC guidelines also recommend leaving sufficient clearance around the tank for maintenance.
What do you put around an oil tank?
Keep the area around your oil tank clear of vegetation, debris, and combustible materials. The tank should be:
- Positioned at least 1.8 metres from buildings or boundaries (if unprotected)
- Located away from drains and watercourses to reduce pollution risk
- Protected by physical barriers if situated near driveways or farm machinery