Are you planning to install an underground water tank?

If you live in an area which is prone to bushfires, then you will no doubt have been thinking about how you can best protect your home and family from the danger, and one of the things that you will certainly have been considering is the installation of an underground water tank.  Installing underground water tanks isn't always easy, but it is often vital to protecting your property. If you have been thinking through the installation of your tank, then you will need to answer at least three questions.

Where will you place the tank?

Some people think that installing underground water tanks involves little more than digging a hole and inserting the tank, but the reality is more complex. First, planning permission is normally required to install a tank and to gain that permission, you must be able to demonstrate that the installation is wholly within your property boundaries and that the area is free from both above ground obstructions and below ground obstructions such as sewers and cables. You will also need to be aware of any conditions such as proneness to flooding, which could impact the installation method you need to use.

What capacity should the water tank be?

Underground water tanks are available in a wide range of sizes, and you should think carefully about which size of water tank would be most appropriate. If you opt for a smaller water tank, then it will cost less to purchase and install. It will also take up less space underground, however, you could find that in a few years you need to dig it up and replace it with a larger model as your needs change. Planning for future growth is always the most cost-effective solution.

What's involved in installing your tank?

Installing underground water tanks normally involves the use of machinery, and so, whatever location you choose for your tank you must ensure that it is accessible by machinery and that there is sufficient space available around the perimeter to let the machinery operate unhindered. While there are elements of the installation that you can do yourself, you will still need to work with contractors to undertake a range of tasks including pouring the needed concrete base. You could also find it helpful to have a geotechnical engineer available since they will have the experience and skillset to deal with any installation issues that could crop up on site.

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