Considerations for domestic heating oil storage

Here at Compass Fuel Oils, we are the UK’s leading provider of fuel oils like red diesel and kerosene, as well as lubricants and greases. And this is our guide to everything you should know about safely storing domestic heating oil.

What are the important considerations for domestic heating oil storage?

There are a number of important considerations to take into account when storing heating oil on your property. These  can be split into three separate and distinct areas:

  • Storage placement
  • Tank maintenance
  • Legal requirements

Where should your domestic heating oil be stored?

Your domestic heating oil needs to be stored in a pace that can meet the following requirements:

  • The storage space is out of direct sunlight
  • The storage space cannot be accessed by children
  • The location of storage is well ventilated
  • Storage containers should be away from roof height
  • Stored in areas where there’s minimal risk of damage by weather, machinery or impact

Your heating oil also cannot be stored inside the home itself, so you will need a designated storage space that can meet the requirements.

Tank maintenance for domestic heating oil

It is essential that the tank you use to store your domestic heating oil meets the following requirements:

  • The tank is clean and has not been used to store other fuels or liquids, preventing contamination and boiler damage
  • The tank can be checked regularly for condensation or water
  • The tank is the right size for the amount of heating oil- the tank should only be up to 85% full at maximum capacity
  • The tank is in good condition- no cracks, dents or damage upon visual inspection

A bunded tank can be the best option for storing your heating oil securely and this is actually legally required when storing more than 2,500 litres.

What are the legal requirements for domestic heating oil storage?

There are also legal requirements for the storing of domestic heating oil. The England control of pollution (oil storage) regulations (2001) state that an oil tank is considered domestic if it has a capacity of 3,500 litres or under and it’s used to heat a domestic building. For most homes this will make the regulations instantly applicable.

  • For storing more than 2,500 litres of heating oil you will need a bunded tank- this is designed to hold up 110% off the maximum capacity of the inner tank, so in the even of a leak, the bunded outer shell will “catch” the oil, preventing an environmental issue.
  • For smaller fuel amounts, a bunded heating oil tank will be required in the following circumstances:
    • where oil spills could run into an open drain or a loose manhole cover
    • where the tank vent pipes cannot be seen when the tank’s being filled, for example because the delivery tanker is parked too far away
    • within 10 metres of coastal waters or inland fresh waters like lakes or streams
    • within 50 metres of a drinking water source, for example wells, boreholes or springs
    • where oil spills could run over hard ground and reach coastal waters, inland fresh waters or a drinking water source

For all your fuel oil needs, from storage tanks to red diesel and heating oil deliveries, we are the team you can count on, here at Compass Fuel Oils.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Deliveries

  • What areas do you deliver to?

    We deliver to most regions in the UK. To check if we service your area, please use our delivery postcode checker or contact our support team 01772 619 461 

  • What is the minimum order quantity for delivery?

    The minimum order quantity varies depending on the fuel type. For most orders, it is 500 litres, but smaller deliveries may be available upon request for example barrels of 205l fuel.

  • How long does delivery take?

    Standard deliveries typically take 3–5 working days. We also offer express delivery options for urgent orders.

  • What should I do if my tank is overfilled or damaged during delivery?

    Please report any issues to our customer service team immediately. We will investigate and resolve the issue promptly.

  • Can I change or cancel my delivery?

    Yes, you can modify or cancel your delivery by contacting us at least 24 hours before the scheduled delivery time.

  • Do you charge a delivery fee?

    Standard delivery is included in the fuel price for most orders. Express deliveries or orders below the minimum quantity may incur additional fees.

  • What types of vehicles are used for delivery?

    We use a fleet of fuel tankers suitable for residential, commercial, and agricultural deliveries. For restricted access locations, we may send a smaller vehicle.

  • What if my delivery is delayed?

    While we strive to deliver on time, delays can occur due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. If your delivery is delayed, we will notify you as soon as possible.

  • What should I do to prepare for a delivery?

    Ensure your tank is easily accessible, remove any obstructions, and secure pets or gates. If your tank has a lock, please make sure it is unlocked.

  • How will I know when my delivery will arrive?

    You will receive a notification with an estimated delivery date once your order is confirmed. On the day of delivery, our driver may contact you directly.

  • Do I need to be present during the delivery?

    In most cases, you don’t need to be present as long as your tank is accessible and ready for filling.

  • What happens if I’m not available during the delivery?

    If you’re not available, our driver can deliver the fuel to your tank as long as it is accessible and safe to do so. If access is restricted, we will contact you to reschedule.

  • Can I schedule my delivery?

    Absolutely. You can choose a preferred delivery date during the order process. We’ll do our best to accommodate your request.

  • Do you offer same-day or next-day delivery?

    Yes, same-day and next-day delivery options are available in select areas. Additional charges may apply.

Payments

  • What currency are payments processed in?

    Payments are processed in GBP (British Pounds). If you are paying from outside the UK, your bank may apply conversion fees.

  • Is my payment information secure?

    Absolutely. We use industry-standard encryption and secure payment gateways to protect your payment details.

  • Can I request an extension on my payment due date?

    Yes, payment extensions may be available upon request. Please contact our billing team to discuss options.

  • Do you offer refunds?

    Refunds are processed in accordance with our refund policy. Please contact our support team for further assistance.

  • How can I update my payment details?

    You can update your payment details by contacting our customer service team. 

  • Can I split my payment across multiple methods?

    Unfortunately, we do not support splitting payments across multiple methods at this time.

  • What should I do if my payment is declined?

    If your payment is declined, double-check your payment details and try again. If the issue persists, contact your bank or our support team for assistance.

  • How do I receive my invoice or receipt?

    Invoices and receipts are sent to your registered email address or by letter.

  • Is there a surcharge for using a credit card?

    No, we do not charge additional fees for payments made using a credit card.

  • Do you offer credit terms for businesses?

    Yes, we provide credit terms for eligible business customers. Please contact our sales team to discuss account setup and terms.

  • Can I set up a direct debit or recurring payment?

    Yes, you can set up direct debit or recurring payments to ensure timely and hassle-free billing.

  • What payment methods do you accept?

    We accept a variety of payment methods, including credit/debit cards, direct bank transfers. For business customers, we also offer account-based billing.

  • I paid for my order by card, I received less fuel than I paid for due to the tank being full, what happens now?

    We have a couple of options available, we can refund your payment card, this takes 3-5 working days from the date we process your refund. Alternatively, we can leave the credit sat on your account and adjust this amount from the payment for your next order.