How do I stop heating oil being stolen?

Why tanks are targeted

A full tank holds a lot of value: at today's typical price, 1,000 litres costs about £1,198. Secured by Design, the police crime prevention initiative, says above-ground tanks, including domestic heating oil tanks, are most at risk. Thieves can smash pipes and valves or puncture the tank, so a theft can also mean a leak and a costly clean-up. The PSNI notes that rural homes are particularly targeted.

Lock it, the right way

• Lockable cap or padlock. Fit a locking fill cap or a good-quality closed-shackle padlock. Secured by Design recommends accredited locks that meet the Police Preferred Specification.
• Never lock or block the vent. UKIFDA, the fuel distributors' association, warns this can split the tank. Lock the lid or fill cap only.
• Let your supplier in. If you will be out, give the keys or code to your supplier, or the driver cannot deliver.
• Plastic tanks. OFTEC warns that a thief may simply drill a plastic tank rather than tackle a lock, ruining it and possibly causing a leak, so put alarms, lighting and screening first. A lockable cage is a stronger option; the PSNI says cages offer the best protection while still allowing tanker access.

Alarms and level monitors

A remote electronic level gauge with an alarm is one measure police and the industry all recommend. It sounds an alarm if the level suddenly drops or falls below a set point, so you can act while it is happening rather than when the heating stops. OFTEC suggests displaying a sign or sticker saying the tank is alarmed, to add to the deterrent. UKIFDA also says to make sure the gauge is fitted correctly and secured to the top of the tank.

Lighting, screening and where the tank sits

• Light it. Motion-activated or low-energy dusk-to-dawn lights near the tank deter thieves and can alert you to them.
• CCTV. A visible camera covering the tank deters thieves and gives evidence.
• Keep it in view. The best place is visible from your home and neighbours but not from the road.
• Screen it with care. Fencing, trellis or prickly plants such as pyracantha, berberis or hawthorn help hide it, but OFTEC says leave enough room for servicing, maintenance and deliveries and follow fire-safety recommendations. An OFTEC-registered technician can advise.
• Lock gates and put away ladders and tools.

The PSNI also suggests limiting how much oil you keep in the tank at any one time, as full tanks are a more popular target. Weigh that against keeping enough in for winter.

Insurance, and what to do after a theft

Check what your home insurance covers: stolen oil, damage to the tank, the clean-up if thieves cause a leak, and any conditions the policy sets. UKIFDA suggests asking your insurer about the type of cover you have and what happens if there is a leak; insurers may also have security advice.

If you see a theft happening, call 999. To report one afterwards or pass on information, call 101 and keep the crime reference number for your insurer. If the tank has been damaged and oil is leaking towards a drain or watercourse, call the pollution hotline: 0800 80 70 60 in England, Scotland and Northern Ireland, or 0300 065 3000 in Wales. Check your level regularly so you spot a loss quickly, and if you need to replace stolen oil, compare prices for your postcode.