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Oil Tank Removal & Disposal in Wiltshire

Redundant, old or contaminated tank taking up space? We safely drain, decommission, remove and recycle oil tanks across Wiltshire — cleanly and in line with environmental regulations.

An old oil tank can't just be dragged out and skipped — residual oil and sludge make it hazardous waste, and incorrect disposal can pollute the ground and breach environmental law. Whether you've switched to a heat pump or gas, decommissioned an outbuilding, or simply need a failed tank gone, Wiltshire Oil Tanks handles removal safely and responsibly across Salisbury, Swindon, Chippenham, Devizes and the whole county. Our installers are OFTEC registered, so the work is done to the proper standard and the waste goes through licensed, registered recyclers.

Looking for oil tank removal near you in Wiltshire? Send a couple of photos with your enquiry and we can usually give you a fixed price without even needing a visit.

Our removal & decommissioning process

  • Safe draining of remaining oil and pumping out of sludge
  • Disconnection of pipework and decommissioning of the tank
  • Cutting down and removal of steel or plastic tanks, even in awkward access
  • Responsible recycling and disposal of the tank and waste oil through licensed channels
  • A tidy, cleared site left ready for landscaping or a replacement
  • Advice on any ground remediation if there's been a historic leak
♻️ Replacing your tank too? When we fit your replacement tank, removal and recycling of the old one is included free — you only pay separately for standalone removals.

How much does oil tank removal cost?

For a standalone removal the price depends on the tank size, how easy it is to get to, and whether there's residual oil or contamination to deal with — an underground tank costs more than a straightforward above-ground one. We'll give you a clear fixed quote once we know the details, with no hidden disposal fees bolted on at the end — a trick worth watching for, as we explain in our guide to cheap tank quotes and hidden disposal fees. For replacement pricing, see our oil tank replacement cost guide.

Removing an oil tank from your garden

Most domestic tanks sit in the garden or down the side of the house, and access is usually the biggest factor. Narrow paths, gates and raised beds are rarely a problem — we cut steel and plastic tanks down on site where needed so they can be carried out in sections. Once the tank is gone we clear the base and leave the area tidy, ready for landscaping or a replacement tank.

Underground & commercial tank removal

Buried and commercial tanks need more care. Depending on access and cost, an underground tank can either be fully excavated and lifted out, or decommissioned in place — cleaned out and filled with foam or sand so it's made permanently safe. We'll advise which route suits your site and talk you through any documentation you may need.

Moving or relocating an oil tank

Not every job is a full removal — sometimes a tank just needs to move, for a patio, extension or better access for deliveries. We can relocate a tank and re-run the oil line to current regulations. If that's what you need, mention it in your enquiry and we'll quote the move rather than a removal.

Contaminated & leaked tanks

If your tank has leaked, don't disturb it further. We're experienced in decommissioning contaminated tanks safely and can advise on the next steps for any affected ground, working to protect both your property and the surrounding environment. Caught a weep early? Our leak repair service may be a cheaper option than removal.

Areas we cover

We remove and dispose of oil tanks right across Wiltshire, including Salisbury, Swindon, Chippenham, Trowbridge, Devizes, Marlborough, Warminster, Melksham and the surrounding villages.

Removal FAQs

How much does it cost to remove an oil tank?

It depends on the tank size, access and whether there's residual oil or contamination. We give a fixed quote once we've assessed it — often from a couple of photos — and removal is included free when we supply and fit your replacement tank.

Can you remove an oil tank for free?

Removal, draining and recycling of your old tank are included free when we fit your replacement. Standalone removals, with no new tank going in, are quoted separately at a fixed price.

How do I dispose of an old oil tank?

An oil tank can't simply be skipped — residual oil and sludge make it hazardous waste. We drain it, cut it down where needed, and recycle the tank and waste oil through licensed, registered channels so it's disposed of legally.

Do I need a certificate when decommissioning an oil tank?

For a standard above-ground domestic tank there's usually no formal certificate required, but the work should be done safely and the waste handled through licensed recyclers. Underground and commercial tanks can be stricter — we'll advise on what's needed for your situation.

Can you remove an underground oil tank?

Yes. A buried tank can either be fully excavated and removed, or decommissioned in place by cleaning and filling it with foam or sand. We'll advise which is more appropriate and cost-effective.

What happens to the oil left in my tank?

We drain any remaining oil first. If it's clean it can often be treated and transferred into your new tank; if it's old or contaminated it's removed and disposed of responsibly.

Need an Old Oil Tank Removed?

Message us your town and a photo of the tank — someone from our local team will come back to you as soon as possible.

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