Mick and Sal Chesworth, of Scone, received the refund in 2011.

Mr Chesworth said the tank was used for their washing machine, toilet and pool, which has made a huge difference to their family’s water supply.

Upper Hunter Shire mayor Michael Johnsen said council was keen to help residents install water tanks as it benefited the shire as a whole.

“Using rainwater where possible conserves town water supplies and means less water needs to be treated, saving money for all ratepayers not just individuals,” he said.

“It is important to prepare for the dry times even if you are on town water as droughts can mean water restrictions.”

There are a number of conditions for the rebate including:

* The tank or tanks must hold at least 9000 litres, receive water from at least 30 per cent of the roof area and the residence must be connected to town water supplies in Aberdeen, Cassilis, Merriwa, Murrurundi or Scone;

* The tank(s) must be connected to external fittings, including pool top up if there is a pool on the property;

* If the tank is connected to plumbing fittings, the work must be done by a licensed plumber. Connecting the tank to non-potable indoor uses such as toilet/s and washing machine will allow use of the tank water year round, but will add to the expense of the installation; and

* Where mains water is interconnected with or used to top up domestic rainwater tanks, there must be backflow protection, to prevent any potential contamination of the mains supply. This requires an authorised backflow prevention device such as a dual check valve and a visible air gap between the mains top up and the top water level (minimum 100mm). 

The priority for council is to protect the community by maintaining drinking water quality in the reticulated water supply system.

No rebate is available for tanks required under planning regulations for new houses or extensions/renovations, or for commercial or industrial users.

Residents should apply to council for the rebate before installing the tank. 

If council approves the application, and the tank and connections pass inspection, the rebate cheque will be in the mail.

“Even if residents are not applying for a rebate, the installation of most large water tanks requires council approval,” Cr Johnsen said.

Further information including the Rainwater Tank Rebate Application is available on council’s website www.upperhunter.nsw.gov.au under Planning and Development, Application Forms and Rainwater Tank Rebate.