When you’re building a new home, there’s one line item that savvy builders and architects already know to plan for: water tanks. Not just any tanks—hidden, underground solutions that meet regulatory requirements and preserve usable outdoor space.
While city dwellers might envision tanks as large, obtrusive barrels, builders across Australia know there’s a smarter approach. With underground and under-driveway water tanks, new homes can meet BASIX sustainability mandates, enhance property value, and do their part for water conservation—without compromising design.
Welcome to the future of smart water storage. Let’s explore why more builders are choosing The Water Tank Factory’s underground solutions for new home builds across Australia.
Why A BASIX Water Tank Is Must for New Home Builds in Australia
Thanks to rising water costs, climate pressures, and building regulations like BASIX (the NSW Building Sustainability Index), new homes must factor in rainwater capture from day one. It’s not just environmentally responsible—it’s required.
Under BASIX guidelines, most new homes in New South Wales must demonstrate:
- Reduced potable water use by up to 40%
- Use of rainwater tanks or recycled water systems
- Water-saving features across indoor and outdoor spaces
To comply, many designs now include rainwater tanks connected to toilets, washing machines, or garden taps—but homeowners don’t always want to see those tanks. That’s where underground models come in.
Hot Tip for Builders: Planning underground tanks at the design phase makes BASIX compliance easier and keeps your outdoor aesthetics intact.
Meet the Lattice™ Underground Tank Range: Clever Tanks for Tight Blocks
Space is tight. Whether you’re building a duplex, narrow-lot home, or high-end residence with landscaped gardens, every square metre matters.
That’s why The Water Tank Factory offers the Lattice™ range of underground and under-driveway tanks, which can be installed:
- Under backyards, side paths, or even concrete driveways
- Fully out of sight and securely trafficable
- With access lids and risers for easy inspection and cleaning
3000 Litre Lattice™ Underground Tank
- Ideal for tight yards, granny flats, or small new builds
- Can be driven over (perfect under driveways)
5000 Litre Lattice™ Underground Tank
- Higher capacity for larger homes
- Meets BASIX and developer water storage targets with ease
These tanks are engineered with thick shot-weight construction for superior strength, and galvanised traffic-rated lids make them driveway-safe.
Builder Insight: Don’t forget to factor in excavation and installation at the same time as plumbing and stormwater—batching the work reduces costs and delays.
Why Underground Tanks Beat Traditional Options for New Builds
| Feature | Above-Ground Tank | Underground Tank |
|---|---|---|
| Space usage | Takes up backyard or side space | Hidden completely under ground |
| Aesthetics | Visible, needs screening | Out of sight |
| Driveway use | Not trafficable | Traffic-rated models available |
| BASIX compliance | Depends on size and location | Perfect for direct connection to toilets & laundry |
| Council approval | May require fencing/screening | Often easier to approve if below-ground |
The verdict? Underground water tanks give builders and architects more design freedom and higher resale appeal.
Bonus Fact: Many councils offer rebates or incentives for underground rainwater tanks that help reduce stormwater runoff and meet sustainability goals.
New Trends: Eco-Luxury Builds & Net Zero Homes
In 2025, more Australians than ever are seeking eco-conscious homes that combine energy and water efficiency with sleek modern design.
Emerging trends in the home build industry include:
- Net Zero designs that generate as much energy as they consume
- Passive House certification (where temperature regulation is handled passively)
- Smart irrigation systems for gardens using rainwater tanks
- Modular underground tank systems integrated into landscaping
Builders looking to stand out in a competitive market are offering underground tank systems as standard, not just as extras.
Designer Tip: Install the tank early in the build process to prevent costly driveway cuts or retrofits later.
Slimline Tanks Still Have a Place in New Builds
If going underground isn’t an option (e.g. slab-on-ground designs or rocky soil), then a 5000L Slimline Water Tank from The Water Tank Factory is the next best solution.
These sleek tanks:
- Fit snugly along walls or fence lines
- Meet BASIX water tanks requirements for water capture
- Come in a wide range of colours to match home exteriors
- Are available with matching pump and accessory bundles
Why Builders Trust The Water Tank Factory
With over 1,700 tank combinations, The Water Tank Factory offers:
- Australia’s widest range of poly tanks
- Expert advice for BASIX compliance
- Tanks engineered with superior wall thickness for longer life
- Trafficable, underground, slimline, and custom options
- Freight to most locations—fast and affordable
Builders, architects, and developers across Australia rely on Tank Factory quality and certified compliance to deliver smarter homes, faster.
Need help choosing the right BASIX water tank for your build?
Contact our friendly team today for expert guidance on 1300 826 532