How Much Does A Rainwater Tank Cost? [2025]

How Much Does A Rainwater Tank Cost, And Which Tank Is Best For You?

A rainwater tank is an essential investment for Australian homeowners looking to save on water bills, reduce their environmental impact, and ensure water availability during dry seasons. The cost of a rainwater tank in Australia varies widely based on size, material, and installation requirements. On average, rainwater tanks can range from $700 to $2,000 for smaller poly tanks (2,000-5,000 litres) and up to $15,000 or more for larger steel or concrete tanks (20,000+ litres). Installation costs typically add $500 to $3,000, depending on the complexity.

Government rebates and incentives may help reduce costs, especially in regions with water restrictions. When choosing the best tank, factors like water usage needs, available space, and local regulations play a crucial role. Investing in a rainwater tank can lead to significant long-term savings, particularly in areas with high water prices, and can provide a reliable backup during droughts or water restrictions.

How Rainwater Tank Is Purposeful?

Rainwater tanks can eventually pay for themselves if you're trying to reduce your water usage. Many household tasks may be completed with a supply of fresh water, such as:

• Watering your garden


• Use of laundry


• Sanitizing the toilet


• Replenishing the spa or pool


• Cleaning your vehicle


• Supplying the hot water in your system

How Much Does A Rainwater Tank Cost?

As a general estimate, budget for:

• A 1000-litre slimline poly water tank costs $525.


• A 1000-litre round poly water tank costs $583.


• A 2000-litre circular poly water tank usually costs $656.


• A 2000-litre circular steel water tank costs $1,094.


• A rain tank to main a pressure pump with a lid and a switchover device costs $730.

Things To Think About Water Tank Cost

Before purchasing a rainwater tank, think about:

• The amount of rainfall your location goes through


• How much of the rainwater you have gathered will you use?


• How much room do you have and what size tank do you require


• Where will you find it?


• Which plumbing is necessary


• What do you plan to do with the water following council rules and regulations?

If you get plenty of rain, but it comes sporadically, a larger tank may be a good idea, especially if you use it for watering your garden during the summer months, when water restrictions apply.

In the past, rainwater tanks were fairly low-tech. A hose or pipe was connected to the tank and gravity did most of the rest of the work. Today, they can be connected to a pump, a drip irrigation system and

Rainwater Tank Regulations

Installing a rainwater tank may require council clearance, depending on where you reside.

If you wish to use the tank in your laundry or toilet, for example, or if you want to connect it to your mains water supply, approval is usually needed. A professional plumber is also required for the installation of a rainwater tank.

In NSW, tanks bigger than 10,000 litres need council clearance. An additional expense to consider would be the approval procedure. To find out if approval is necessary in your region, ask the installer of your rainwater tank or your local council.

#Tip: A qualified rain water tank plumber must undertake this task for you if you connect your tank to the water mains.

Various Types of Rainwater Collection Tanks

Depending on what you require, there are several kinds of water tanks.

• Poly water tanks: These tanks are lightweight and convenient to install and move. They also have a vast variety of sizes, shapes, and colours. Verify that the poly tank is food grade, meaning it can be used for drinking water, and seek warranties that last up to 25 years.


• Steel tanks: Colorbond, Zincalume, or galvanized steel can be used to make metal tanks. These sturdy, transportable tanks have subterranean and above-ground applications. Polyethylene is frequently used to line metal tanks to maintain optimum water quality and stop corrosion.


• Concrete tanks: Because of their natural stiffness, concrete tanks are frequently buried. They may also be installed in a basement or beneath driveways, which makes them discreet and a fantastic solution to save space.


• Fibreglass tanks: Available in a variety of sizes and colours, these tanks are resistant to rust and corrosion and can withstand high temperatures. Although they cost more than a poly tank, they are long-lasting and convenient to carry.

Find Out More: Putting Up A Rainwater Tank Beneath The Ground

A few variables that will affect the price are as follows: the tank's dimensions, kind of tank, easily accessible and installation type (inground installations are more costly).

Rainwater tanks come in a variety of prices depending on size, composition, and other elements. As a general estimate, budget for:

• A 1000-litre slimline poly water tank costs $525.


• A 1000-litre round poly water tank costs $583.


• A 2000-litre circular poly water tank costs $656.


• A 2000-litre circular steel water tank usually costs $1,094.


• A rain tank to mains pressure pump with a lid and a switchover device costs $730.

Plumbing and installation are not included in these rates.

Plumbers generally cost per hour in addition to a call-out fee. Depending on where you reside and the plumber, call-out fees can range from $60 to $100, and hourly costs can range from $100 to $150.

Getting An Installation For Rainwater Tanks

Make sure the person you choose to install your rainwater tank is the proper fit for the task when the time comes to employ them. A few inquiries to pose to them are

• Do you own a license?


• Can you work in my house with insurance?


• Could you provide me with a quotation in writing?


• What is the duration of your tank's warranty?


• Have you got any recommendations I might contact?

Always ask for a completely itemized price that includes the cost of all supplies used, regardless of the size of the project.

#Tip: Compare prices and service quality by getting at least three quotations before making a hiring decision.

To Conclude

Requesting quotations from nearby rainwater tank installers is the most effective approach to determine the project's cost. This can help you get an idea of current market rates.

Note: At the time this article was created, all of the prices and costs mentioned were sourced. They should only be used as a guide because they are merely suggestive, may differ regionally, and are influenced by market factors.