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Decommissioning Domestic Kerosene Heating Oil Tanks: What You Need to Know

  • Writer: Steve Hargreaves
    Steve Hargreaves
  • Aug 10
  • 2 min read

As more older Perth households shift to modern heating solutions, older kerosene heating oil tanks are becoming less common. If you’ve recently upgraded or no longer use your kerosene system, it’s important to decommission your tank safely and responsibly. Here’s what’s involved and why it matters.


Technician removing a rusted kerosene heating oil tank from a solid brick wall securely during decommissioning
Removing a corroded kerosene tank from an older Perth home.


Why Decommissioning Is Important


Unused kerosene tanks pose several risks:

  • Environmental hazard: Leftover kerosene can leak and contaminate soil or groundwater.

  • Fire safety: Old tanks with residual fuel vapours are a potential fire risk.

  • Structural risk: Corroding tanks, especially underground ones, can weaken over time and collapse or leak.

  • Legal compliance: In some areas, leaving tanks in place without proper decommissioning may breach local council or EPA guidelines.


When Should You Decommission?


You should consider decommissioning if:

  • Your kerosene heating system has been removed or is no longer in use.

  • The tank is more than 20 years old.

  • You’ve switched to electric, gas, or other modern heating options.

  • You’re selling your property and want to ensure it’s free of legacy risks.



What’s Involved in Decommissioning?


Decommissioning doesn’t just mean “leaving it be.” It’s a process that should be done professionally and includes the following steps:


1. Tank Inspection

A qualified technician will assess the tank’s condition, type (aboveground or underground), and contents.


2. Fuel Removal

Any remaining kerosene is safely pumped out and disposed of or recycled in accordance with environmental regulations.


3. Tank Cleaning

The interior is cleaned to remove sludge, scale, and vapours, which reduces the risk of corrosion or fire.


4. Disconnection

All associated piping and lines are disconnected and sealed.


5. Removal or Inert Filling

  • Aboveground tanks: Typically dismantled and taken off-site for disposal or recycling.

  • Underground tanks: Normally excavated and removed, but in a small minority of situations where excavation is not possible, filled with an inert material like sand or foam to prevent collapse.


6. Final Site Check

The area is inspected for signs of leakage or contamination. If soil remediation is needed, this is done immediately.



Can I Do It Myself?


Short answer: No.Decommissioning heating oil tanks is a specialised job that requires the right equipment, training, and waste handling credentials. DIY attempts can lead to serious environmental and legal consequences. Always engage a licensed and insured professional like Handy Fuel WA.





How Handy Fuel WA Can Help


At Handy Fuel WA, we don’t just deliver fuel—we help with the safe and compliant decommissioning of domestic kerosene tanks across Perth and surrounding areas.

Whether you’re planning ahead, dealing with an old system, or preparing your property for sale, we can:

  • Assess your site and recommend the best approach

  • Remove and recycle residual fuel

  • Safely dismantle or fill your tank

  • Provide documentation for compliance or real estate handovers



Need Kerosene Advice?


If you’re unsure where to start or want a free site assessment, give us a call or get in touch online. We’ll walk you through the process, no obligation.


Handy Fuel WA – Fueling the Future, Cleaning Up the Past.

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