What is a Rainwater Tank Installer?

A Rainwater Tank Installer is a specialist who supplies and installs water storage tanks designed to capture rainwater runoff from your roof. Rainwater tanks are often required by council or BASIX commitments for toilet flushing, garden irrigation, and outdoor taps.



This work usually happens after roofing is installed but before external plumbing and final driveway or landscaping works.

What does a Rainwater Tank Installer do?

Your installer will complete works according to your agreed scope of works.


Typically, they will:

  • Supply the rainwater tank (poly, steel, slimline, or underground)
  • Deliver and position the tank on a concrete slab, stand, or prepared base
  • Connect the tank to downpipes and stormwater overflow
  • Install the pump system and any irrigation or internal connections (if included)
  • Provide certification for BASIX or council requirements (if needed)

 

Some installers also coordinate plumber sign-off if required.

Barry's Toolbox

Get your tank size and BASIX plumbing plan finalised early — installing the wrong tank can delay your Occupation Certificate (OC)!


And plan the location carefully — squeezing tanks into tight side setbacks after landscaping is done is a common and costly mistake.

What to look for in a Rainwater Tank Installer

When reviewing quotes, look for:

  • Tank material, capacity, dimensions, and fittings clearly specified
  • Supply and install included (not just supply)
  • Pump system brand and warranty terms (if included)
  • Council compliance and certification provided
  • Site preparation and base construction (concrete or compacted gravel) included
  • Prefer installers who understand BASIX and stormwater drainage compliance.

Before You Begin: What You’ll Need Ready

To get quotes from Rainwater Tank Installers, you’ll need:

  • Roof drainage layout showing downpipes
  • BASIX certificate or DA/CDC stormwater conditions
  • Site plan showing preferred tank location
  • Size and shape preference (slimline, round, underground)
  • Target delivery and install timeline (before driveway or landscaping works)

Average Timeframe

For this task, Pros typically provide quotes within 7-10 business days.

When Can I Expect Quotes?

Timeframes often vary based on demand and the type of Pro you're engaging (e.g. a plumber). If additional communication or clarification is needed is needed, the quoting process may take longer.

 

Don't be alarmed if you don't receive quotes or communication from any Build Buddy Pros straight away. Some work is more complex and the Pro may need time to comprehend your documents or scope of work. Depending on the job, there may even be some work required by the Pro before they are able to quote (e.g. a site visit might be required).

 

If the average timeframe indicated here has passed, and you have not received any messages or quotes, please feel free to contact the Build Buddy Expert Guidance and Support team for an update on quoting for this task.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Do I need a rainwater tank?

    If your BASIX certificate or council conditions require one — yes. It’s mandatory for most new builds.

  • Can I choose any tank size?

    Only if it meets or exceeds the BASIX or DA conditions. Check your certificate carefully.



  • Is electrical connection for the pump included?

    Sometimes. Confirm if your plumber, electrician, or tank installer is providing the pump wiring.

How to Complete this Task?

STEP 1

Review and Adjust the Scope of Works

Timeframes may vary based on demand and the type of Pro you're engaging (e.g., a plumber). If additional communication or clarification is needed, the quoting process may take longer.

STEP 2

Confirm Required Documents Are Uploaded

Check that the following required document(s) are uploaded for this task. These are essential to proceed:

STEP 3

Update the Quality Assurance Checklist

Go to the Quality Assurance tab in this task and review the checklist. Edit any details to suit your project requirements. Being clear and upfront helps set expectations with the Pro. Updating the checklist before requesting quotes ensures everyone is aligned.

STEP 4

Request Quotes

Click the orange ‘Request Quotes’ button to start the quoting process.

STEP 5

Review the Quotes

Once you receive quotes:

  • Review each one carefully, including the payment schedule and any special terms
  • Download attached quote documents for detailed review
  • Check each Pro’s profile and read past client reviews

STEP 6

Communicate with the Pro

If needed, message or call the Pro to clarify details or negotiate terms.

STEP 7

Accept a Quote

Choose the quote that best suits your needs. Once you accept a quote, any other pending quotes will be automatically declined. An agreement will automatically be generated.

STEP 8

Complete the Tasks In Your App

New tasks will appear to guide you through this job — follow each step carefully. Make sure to use the Quality Assurance Checklist, and refer to your contract and final Scope of Works whenever needed.

NEED HELP?

Reach Out to Your Build Buddy Pro

If you have any questions or need a hand, your Build Buddy Pro is your best first contact. They’re a licensed expert in their field and can understand the ins and outs of your project. You can message them via the platform, or you can call them directly.


If you have already contacted your Build Buddy Pro and still need further assistance, the Build Buddy Expert Guidance and Support team are here to help. They will be able to guide you on your next steps or help you find answers to any questions you may have.