Water tanks used for fire protection, potable water, or industrial processes play a critical role in maintaining safe and efficient operations. To keep them in top condition, routine inspections are essential. A professional water tank survey helps identify early signs of wear, damage, or contamination, preventing unexpected failures and keeping systems compliant with UK safety and performance standards.
Neglecting regular inspections can lead to costly issues like leaks, hygiene breaches, or structural failure. Surveys also support insurance documentation and ensure adherence to regulations such as WRAS for drinking water tanks and LPCB standards for fire systems. These inspections are more than a formality – they’re part of essential tank management.
With decades of experience, Franklin Hodge not only manufactures quality tanks but also provides precise, non-invasive inspections that keep systems working with minimal disruption. Modern tools like underwater ROV cameras and drone surveys allow tanks to remain operational throughout the inspection process.
What to Expect During a Water Tank Survey
A standard tank inspection process is built around safety, clarity, and operational efficiency. Each survey begins with an external visual inspection. Engineers examine the tank structure, including ladders, pipework, insulation, and any visible fittings. For areas that are difficult to reach, drones are deployed to capture clear footage from all necessary angles.
Internal inspections use remotely operated underwater cameras. These allow full views of the tank’s condition while it remains filled and in use. This avoids system drainage and confined space entry, reducing downtime and health and safety risks.
Surveys are carried out by trained professionals who understand how tank systems operate and what to look for. The result is a comprehensive understanding of the tank’s condition and any developing issues that need attention.
How ROV Cameras Improve the Tank Inspection Process
Traditional inspection methods often require tanks to be emptied and entered manually, which introduces risks and delays. By using underwater ROV cameras, inspections are completed faster and without interrupting daily operations.
These devices are equipped with high-definition video, offering close-up views of tank linings, fittings, and sediment build-up. They’re especially valuable in spotting corrosion, wear, or loose parts that may not be visible from outside. The ability to inspect tanks while they’re still in service makes ROV cameras a practical choice for fire water tanks, drinking water storage, and process systems where downtime must be avoided.
This method also helps reduce water waste and supports sustainability goals by keeping the tank filled and functional during the survey.
Drone Inspections for External Assessments
Some tanks and silos are installed in elevated or confined areas. In these cases, drones provide a safe and effective way to inspect the exterior. They collect sharp, high-resolution images and videos from the roof, walls, and connection points, offering insights into corrosion, structural damage, or joint fatigue.
Drone inspections don’t require scaffolding, lifts, or work stoppages. That means tank owners get full visibility without delays, while engineers get the information needed to assess the structure’s condition from all angles.
Post-Survey Reporting and Recommendations
At the end of each water tank survey, we provide a full report including:
- High-definition video and photographic evidence
- Structural and performance assessments
- Recommendations for repairs, upgrades, or routine maintenance
Our reports are clear, actionable, and formatted to support procurement, compliance, and operational planning. Catching problems early helps avoid unplanned downtime, emergency repairs, or system failure, saving both time and budget.
And because we’re also the original tank manufacturers, we know exactly what to look for and how to fix it fast.
Why Choose Franklin Hodge for Your Tank Surveys?
With more than 1,200 surveys completed worldwide and 21,000+ projects completed under our belt, Franklin Hodge is trusted across sectors for tank safety and longevity.
Here’s why our clients choose us:
- Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM) – unrivalled knowledge of our tanks and parts
- Over 50 Years of Experience – leading the industry in inspection and maintenance
- Advanced Technology – non-invasive ROVs and drones for safe, efficient surveys
- Compliance-Focused – surveys tailored to meet UK fire safety and health regulations
- End-to-End Service – from survey and reporting to remedial work and maintenance
You can browse our full tank range here.
Maintain Confidence in Your Infrastructure
Regular inspections are a critical part of managing any water tank. A properly executed water tank survey not only supports compliance but also extends the lifespan of your equipment and minimises operational risk.
Whether you’re managing fire suppression systems, potable water tanks, or process tanks, our team at Franklin Hodge delivers inspection services that work with your operations, not against them. Speak to us today to discuss your inspection needs.
