Where Can You Put a Water Tank Around Your House

One of the most common questions homeowners ask when considering rainwater storage is simple:

Where can I actually put a water tank around my house?

With modern Australian homes often built on smaller blocks, space can be limited. Between fences, pathways, outdoor living areas and utilities, it may seem like there’s no room left for a water tank.

The good news is that there are more placement options than most people realise. With the right tank design and planning, you can install a water tank in almost any property layout.

This guide explores the most practical places to install a water tank around your home and how to make the most of limited space.

Why Tank Placement Matters

Choosing the right location for your water tank affects:

• Water collection efficiency

• Installation cost

• Accessibility for maintenance

• Aesthetics of your property

• Overall system performance

A well-positioned tank captures more water, operates more efficiently and integrates seamlessly into your home.

Common Places to Install a Water Tank

Along the Side of the House

One of the most popular and practical locations is along the side of your home.

Most properties have a narrow gap between the house and boundary fence that is often underutilised.

Benefits of this location include:

• Minimal impact on usable yard space

• Easy connection to downpipes

• Discreet placement out of sight

This is where slimline water tanks are especially effective, as they are designed to fit neatly into narrow spaces.

Against a Fence Line

Installing a tank along a fence is another common option.

This works well for:

• Backyards with limited depth

• Properties with long boundary lines

• Keeping tanks out of main living areas

Positioning the tank along the fence helps preserve open space while still allowing easy access for plumbing.

Behind the Garage or Shed

The space behind garages or sheds is often overlooked.

This area can be ideal for:

• Keeping tanks hidden

• Using otherwise unused space

• Connecting to nearby roof catchment

Slimline tanks are particularly useful here, as they can sit flush against walls without taking up excess room.

In the Backyard

If space allows, the backyard is a straightforward location.

However, considerations include:

• Available space for entertaining or landscaping

• Visual impact

• Accessibility

Round tanks are often used in larger backyards, while slimline tanks are better suited to smaller outdoor areas.

In the Front Yard (Where Allowed)

In some cases, tanks can be installed in the front yard, depending on council regulations.

This may be suitable for:

• Properties with limited rear access

• Homes with larger front setbacks

However, aesthetic considerations are important, and placement should complement the home’s appearance.

Under Decks or Raised Structures

If your home has a raised deck or elevated structure, this space can be utilised for water storage.

Benefits include:

• Hidden installation

• Protection from direct sunlight

• Efficient use of vertical space

Tank height and access need to be carefully considered in these setups.

Choosing the Best Location for Your Property

The best location depends on several factors.

Proximity to Downpipes

Your tank should be positioned close to a downpipe to maximise rainwater collection and minimise plumbing complexity.

Available Space

Measure your available area carefully, including:

• Width

• Height

• Clearance for installation

This helps determine whether a slimline or round tank is more suitable.

Accessibility

Ensure the tank is accessible for:

• Maintenance

• Cleaning

• Pump installation

Avoid placing tanks in areas that are difficult to reach.

Ground Stability

A stable, level base is essential for long-term performance. The chosen location must support the weight of a full tank.

Why Slimline Tanks Work Best in Most Homes

For many modern Australian properties, space is the biggest limitation.

Slimline tanks solve this problem by offering:

• Narrow design for tight spaces

• Flexible placement options

• Efficient use of unused areas

• Minimal disruption to outdoor living

👉 If you are working with limited space, you can explore slimline water tanks designed to fit along walls, fences and narrow side access areas.

Maximising Space With Smart Tank Placement

Even small properties can benefit from thoughtful tank placement.

Use Narrow Side Access Areas

Instead of leaving these areas unused, install a slimline tank to turn them into functional storage space.

Combine Multiple Tanks

Installing two smaller tanks in different locations can increase total capacity without requiring a large single footprint.

Position Tanks Close to Usage Points

Placing tanks near where water will be used reduces plumbing complexity and improves system efficiency.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When deciding where to place a water tank, avoid:

• Blocking walkways or access paths

• Placing tanks too far from downpipes

• Ignoring maintenance access

• Installing on unstable ground

• Choosing a tank that is too wide for the space

Proper planning prevents costly adjustments later.

Tank Placement and Aesthetics

Water tanks are a visible part of your home, so placement should consider appearance.

Slimline tanks are often preferred because they:

• Sit flush against structures

• Blend into the layout

• Take up less visual space

Choosing the right colour and position helps the tank integrate with your home design.

Tank Placement for Different Property Types

Small Residential Blocks

• Best location: side of house or fence line

• Recommended tank: slimline

Townhouses and New Builds

• Best location: narrow access areas

• Recommended tank: slimline

Larger Suburban Homes

• Best location: backyard or side of house

• Recommended tank: slimline or round

Rural Properties

• Best location: open areas

• Recommended tank: round or large-capacity tanks

Choosing the Right Tank Manufacturer

Regardless of placement, tank quality matters.

A high-quality tank should be:

• UV-stabilised

• Structurally strong

• Designed for Australian conditions

• Easy to install and maintain

At Polymaster, tanks are engineered to suit a wide range of property layouts, including compact residential spaces.

Final Thoughts

Finding the right place to install a water tank around your house is often easier than it seems. With smart planning and the right tank design, even the smallest properties can benefit from rainwater storage.

From narrow side access areas to fence lines and hidden spaces, there are many practical solutions available.

For most modern homes, slimline tanks offer the perfect balance of space efficiency, flexibility and performance.

By choosing the right location and tank type, you can maximise your water storage without compromising your property’s layout or usability.