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Need help installing a oil tank or replacing an existing one?

Whether you're living off-grid or simply upgrading your system, understanding costs, regulations, and who to hire is key.

Read on for everything you need to know about oil tank installation in Lerwick and how to hire an OFTEC-registered installer.

Keen to get moving on your oil tank installation right away? Try our quick request a quote feature and we’ll put you in touch with checked and reviewed installers covering your local area.

How much does an oil tank installation cost in Lerwick?

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To find out more about prices, try our job estimate calculator or visit our oil tank installation cost guide.

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.

What are the rules for installing an oil tank?

To comply with the OFTEC (Oil Firing Technical Association) and UK building regulations, your oil tank installation must:

• Be installed by a registered OFTEC or Competent Persons engineer (or be signed off by building regulations)
• Maintain minimum distances from boundaries and buildings
• Provide safe access for filling and maintenance
• Have planning permission (If your property is listed or in a conservation area)

How far should an oil tank be from a house?

Always check with your local council about installation requirements in Lerwick as a first port of call. However, common UK guidance is that an oil tank should be:

• At least 1.8 metres away from your house
• The same separation often applies to any outbuildings with doors or windows facing the tank

Do I 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 main road

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.

If in doubt, check with your local council before installation.

How should an oil tank be installed?

A professional oil tank installation typically involves the following steps:

• Site assessment – The installer checks your property layout, ground conditions, and distances from buildings, fences, and boundaries to check the site is suitable
• Base preparation – A solid, level concrete slab base is built
• Tank positioning – The tank is placed at least 1.8 m from your home
• Connection and testing – Fuel lines are connected securely to the boiler, then tested for leaks and correct flow
• Regulatory checks – Your installer provides a certificate of installation once final checks are complete

How thick should a concrete base be for an oil tank?

When installing an oil tank, the concrete base should be:

• At least 100–150 mm thickness (4–6 inches)
• Have proper reinforcement (mesh or rebar)

This will ensure the base is strong, level, and suitable for the tank’s weight when full.

An experienced installer will design a base that’s suitable for your oil tank size and weight.

Why use Checkatrade?

• Fully checked OFTEC installers covering your local area
• No need to get approval from your local building control – Competent Person installers can self-certify the installation complies with building regulations
• Insurance always listed
• Easy to compare multiple profiles
• Handy reviews from local customers
• Covered by the Checkatrade Guarantee (T&Cs apply)