Attic Water Tanks and internal pipework

Why Important

If you still have a cold water tank and water pipes in your roof space, then any leak will cause serious damage to the ceilings, timbers, and lead to costly repairs.

What to look for

Water tanks are likely to be made of metal, asbestos, fiberglass or plastic. If the tank is made of Lead or asbestos, then removal by a specialist company is likely to be required.

When to look

When the initial detailed survey is undertaken. Collect photographs of the existing situation.

Undertake annual inspections or when the building has a change of use/occupancy.

How to fix

Replace asbestos and Lead water tanks with fiberglass or plastic tanks.

If you still have a cold water tank and water pipes in your roof space you should insulate around and over the tank to prevent freezing.

Pipes should either run under the insulation or be encased in proprietary foam pipe insulation.

Avoiding creating problems

If you still have a cold water tank and water pipes in your roof space and then introduce insulation, it is essential not to insulate under the tank.

Historical background

The requirement to have a Water Tank related to the uncertainty of water supply and water pressure. As water supply and ensured water pressure has become standard, the need for a separate high level Water Tank has reduced.