How To Prevent Heating Oil Theft

Date Published: 07/04/2025

Heating oil theft might sound rare, but it’s more common than you’d think, especially in rural areas and remote locations. If determined thieves get to your tank, you could be thousands of pounds worth out of pocket and be left with a cold house or stalled business.

The good news? A few smart alterations can make your tank a lot less tempting. Whether you’ve already been targeted or just want to stay prepared, this guide covers how to prevent oil theft so you don’t have to worry.

Key takeaways

• Common signs of heating oil theft to watch out for
• Is your heating oil tank leaving you open to theft?
• Best ways to prevent heating oil theft
• Simple habits to protect your heating oil

Common signs of heating oil theft to watch out for

These are some of the early warning signs that your heating oil might be going missing:

• Sudden drops in fuel levels without explanation
• Your heating isn’t performing as expected
• A strong fuel smell or visible wet patches near your tank
• No signs of a leaky tank, but usage seems unusually high

Installing a tank monitor might be a smart move. These simple gadgets give real-time updates on oil tank levels, making it easy to spot any possible signs of theft and helping you avoid running out unexpectedly. Check out our remote tank monitoring service to learn more.

Is your heating oil tank leaving you open to theft?

Not all fuel tanks are the same. If you’re using an older or single-skin plastic tank, it might be time to consider an upgrade. These tank types are more vulnerable to tampering and damage, while newer models are more theft-proof.

A steel tank or a bunded tank (with a built-in outer layer for extra protection) is a great option if you’re looking for maximum security. They’re tougher, longer-lasting, and much harder for thieves to get into. But placement matters, too! Make sure your fuel oil tank is in a secure location, ideally not visible from the road or public paths.

Best ways to prevent heating oil theft

This is where you can really start making things difficult for thieves. Adding security measures can make your tank a much less attractive target.

• High-quality padlocks: Use on access points to stop thieves from easily opening the tank.

• Tank cages: A metal cage adds a serious physical barrier and stops thieves right in their tracks.

• Oil tank alarms: If someone is messing with the tank, you’ll be instantly alerted.

• Metal fences or barriers: Keep the tank out of sight and hard to reach for potential thieves.

• Lockable fill points and inspection caps: Add another layer of protection and prevent syphoning

How to cover and conceal your oil tank

Visibility can also play a big part in whether your tank becomes a target. If it’s clearly on show or easily accessible, thieves might take this as an open invitation.

You might be wondering: What can I cover my oil tank with?

Here are a few ideas – just be sure to leave enough access for your delivery driver when it’s time to refill.

• A lockable shed or purpose-built enclosure
• Wooden or metal fencing
• Dense shrubbery or natural screens

Whatever you choose, try to break the line of sight from the road or any public footpaths. It’s one of the easiest ways to take your tank off a thief’s radar.

How tech can help you stop fuel theft

Most fuel thefts happen under the cover of night. Thieves often rely on darkness, quiet surroundings, and tanks being out of sight. Lighting can be a deterrent, and it doesn’t have to be anything fancy.

• Motion sensor lighting near your tank area
• Timed lights during winter’s darker evenings
• Night vision cameras (or even visible dummy cameras)
• Signs that hint at CCTV – even if it’s not live

The goal is to make any would-be thief feel exposed. If they think they’re being watched, they’re far more likely to move on.

Simple habits to protect your heating oil

Even with strong safety measures, simple things can also go a long way. Keeping tabs on your tank, being smart about delivery times, and doing regular tank checks can prevent theft.

Here’s what we recommend:

• Check fuel levels regularly, at least once a week in colder months
• Book routine tank maintenance to fix wear and tear early
• Monitor your fuel usage to spot any discrepancies
• Try not to share too much online (like when you're away)

Get heating oil delivered for less with Your NRG

Need to refill your tank? Our flexible heating oil delivery options across the UK let you choose a time that suits you, with professional drivers who respect your property and your privacy.

Worried about sudden drops in fuel levels or not knowing when to top up? Our Remote Tank Monitoring service takes care of that, too. It tracks your fuel usage in real time, alerts you to any unusual activity, and helps you schedule top-ups before you run low.

Order domestic heating oil now to stay warm for less!