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Owning a rainwater tank

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Conserve water and save money with a rainwater tank. Get advice on selecting the right tank for your home.

A rainwater tank located at the side of a home, with a hose connected to tank's tap.

Why choose a rainwater tank? 

Conserves water

Saves money on your water bill

Eco-friendly

Reduces erosion from rain runoff

Stores excess rainwater

Water source for home and garden

Lessens need for new or replacement water infrastructure

Looking for something else?

Greywater

Water supply and sewerage

Rainwater tank

Selecting the right tank

There are some factors you’ll need to consider when selecting a rainwater tank.

  • Consider size, location and how it will be used in your home.
  • Check if it meets Australian Standards and review warranty conditions.
  • Consider the installation costs by a licensed plumber.
  • Understand back-up supply options for your internal connections. 
  • Evaluate the compatibility of materials in your system, to avoid corrosion of metal tanks, gutters and accessories.
  • Find out what approvals you need or requirements you must comply with.

Depending on the style of the rainwater tank you select, prices can start from approximately $500.

Generally, they come with an overflow outlet, strainer and tap fitting. Other accessories may need to be purchased separately. 

You can look up rainwater tanks and equipment suppliers by researching online or visiting Yellow Pages.

The right location for your rainwater tank will be where the most water will be collected, e.g. the largest possible roof area.

  • Choose a location where your existing downpipes are positioned. This will make installing the system easier and ensure that all the rainwater from that part of the roof goes into the tank. If you add extra downpipes leading to the tank, the water in the gutters might end up flowing into those downpipes instead of going into the tank.
  • Ensure your rainwater tank doesn't block your neighbours natural light, ventilation, outlook or detract from the streetscape.
  • If you want to install a pump for irrigation purpose, including hose taps, toilets and washing machine use, make sure it is in a place that will have low noise for your family or neighbours.
  • Consider access for maintenance purposes.
  • Building regulations may limit your tank location due to the front, side and rear boundaries.
  • Narrow blocks and height restrictions for corner blocks, reduced rear and side boundary clearances will apply.
  • Be aware of the stress placed on retaining walls, caused by locating a rainwater tank above or near any retaining walls, both on your property and your neighbour’s property.

Approvals

Depending on where you live, the size of your rainwater tank and where you want it located, you may need: 

  • planning approval 
  • plumbing approval 
  • building approval. 

You may also need to comply with requirements for the Bushfire overlay code and rainwater tanks connected internally.

Learn more about what approvals you need to install a rainwater tank.

Maintaining and cleaning a rainwater tank

Regular maintenance of your rainwater tank is recommended. Additional maintenance checks should be undertaken following a storm.

This includes all apparatus, fittings or pipes for supplying water to the premises.

Take the following measures to maintain your rainwater tank.

  • Keep your roof clear of large tree branches.
  • Clear leaves and debris from downpipes.
  • Check inlet and overflow screens are securely in place, are in good condition and cleaned regularly.
  • Install a first flush diverter which stops the initial flow of water from your roof from entering the tank.
  • Open and clean out first flush devices after rain.
  • Check the tank and fittings regularly for leaks.
  • Replace cartridges in water filters and chemicals or components in water treatment units strictly according to manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Check sludge levels in the bottom of the tank every 2 to 3 years or if you notice any sediment in the water.
  • Remove sludge before the layer builds to the level of the tank outlet – usually once every 5 to 10 years.
  • Avoid using harsh cleaning products that may contaminate your rainwater.

Steel rainwater tanks can be affected by corrosion.

Direct contact between different metals or run-off from one metal surface to another (e.g. gutters or piping) can cause accelerated corrosion or holes when metals are wet. 

To get rid of mosquito larvae or wrigglers inside a tank, add a small amount of liquid paraffin or edible kitchen oil to the water.

Use the following tips to prevent mosquitoes breeding in your rainwater tank.

  • Keep the tank free from debris.
  • Install guttering that stops water pooling.
  • Ensure water does not pool on the tank lid.
  • Seal all entry routes to the tank including inlet and overflow pipes with mosquito-proof screens.

Mosquito-proof screens should: 

  • have openings less than one millimetre 
  • be made of stainless steel or aluminium
  • be secure but removable for cleaning. In some systems, screens can be incorporated into a rain head, first flush device or underground filter pit.

Frequently asked questions

No. Council doesn’t recommend using rainwater for drinking, cooking and other potable purposes, as the quality of stored rainwater can vary greatly.

You can use rainwater for:

  • outdoor use on the garden, cleaning and car washing
  • indoor use for toilet flushing and in your washing machine.

No. You cannot install a rainwater tank by yourself. If the tank water is to be connected to your home toilet or cold water washing machine tap, a licensed plumber is required.