Buying and installing a rainwater tank

Ensure you are aware of all of the regulations and requirements before installing a rainwater tank. The steps below outline what you need to do:

Step 1: Talk to your local council

Check whether they have any local requirements that you need to comply with. Tanks with a capacity of 10,000 litres are generally exempt from needing council approval. However, there are a number of standard conditions that you must comply with. Refer to the State Environmental Planning Policy (Exempt and Complying Development Codes) 2008, Subdivision 32 and Subdivision 33.

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Step 2: Consult rainwater tank suppliers and installers

There are a number of rainwater tank options and, by doing some research and consulting a number of rainwater tank installers and suppliers, you will find the solution that suits your needs. There are many factors to consider when choosing a rainwater tank such as tank material, tank type (above or below ground) and price.

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Step 3: Choose a location for the tank

In choosing a location for your tank you should aim to maximise the tank's catchment area, minimise the plumbing and connection costs and provide a safe and stable foundation for what will be a very large and heavy structure once it is full of water.

Check the suitability of the proposed location of the tank before it is installed as tanks cannot be installed over a water or wastewater main. Check with Sydney Water on 13 20 92.

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Step 4: Tailor your tank

You will need to also consider the following:

• Whether your roof and guttering system are suitable for collecting rainwater. Do not collect rainwater from roofs containing high lead concentrations, bitumen based products or exposed treated wood.
• Preventing gutter blockages from debris by assessing overhanging branches and considering installing gutter guards.
• Pest-proofing and screening your tank. Your rainwater tank inlet and overflow must be mosquito proof and you must ensure there is no other point of entry.
• First flush devices: these are recommended to prevent the first flush of water entering the tank.
• A backflow prevention device is required if your tank is connected internally or to the Sydney Water supply. Refer to the terms and conditions for backflow requirements.
• Top-up from drinking water supply for rainwater tanks connected to internal uses such as toilet and washing machine.
• Pump to distribute water from the tank to internal uses or outdoor uses that require water pressure.
• Water level monitors may be installed to help monitor the water level in the tank.
• Labelling the pipework and taps as 'rainwater'.

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Step 5: Install your tank

Find a licensed plumber who has experience with rainwater tank installations to carry out the plumbing work. Read our Tips for hiring a plumber (PDF - 119KB) .

You must book an audit inspection for all rainwater tank installations connected to a toilet and/or washing machine, and for those that can be topped up from or are connected to the drinking water supply.

A licensed plumber must pay an audit inspection fee at a Quick Check agent and book an inspection with Sydney Water. The Plumber must meet the Sydney Water inspector onsite or ensure a technically qualified representative is present at the time of the appointment.

The plumber must provide:

• the reference number for the fee to the customer for inclusion in the rebate application form.
• a Certificate of Compliance to the customer. This must be attached to the rebate application form.
• a copy of the Certificate of Compliance to Sydney Water within two working days of the work being completed.

Sydney Water has strict requirements to protect the drinking water supply. To know more, refer to our backflow prevention requirements.

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