The lead time for delivery of water thanks has almost doubled off the back of increased demand due to the drought crisis.
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Industry sources say the direct impact of the drought along with tighter water restrictions has seen enquiries soar with one Port Macquarie retailer likening the demand to 2008 when water tank rebates were offered.
Another retailer said higher demand was not unusual in summer months or in the lead up to Christmas.
"When people are considering purchasing a water tank they need to understand that they are not just sitting on a shelf," a retailer said.
"There will be a wait time."
Managing director of Bushmans Tanks NSW Chris Glenn said the delay in filling orders was also due to road restrictions on some NSW roads.
"We operate right across the eastern seaboard of NSW and interstate as well," Mr Glenn said.
"The demand is basically right across our entire footprint but it is certainly higher in NSW.
"NSW, which is the busier of all the states, has copped the brunt of the drought compared with other states
"While the demand is stronger due to the drought, the full effects of the bushfires is yet to impact as well," he said.
"Typically there is an upswing in demand at this time of the year."
Mr Glenn said some roads had restrictions placed on them at Christmas time for the delivery of larger tanks on trucks.
"Some road restrictions are put in place for oversize trucks," he added.
He said the demand was "certainly stronger than it would be normally".
This particular drought is certainly more severe than in previous years and has particularly hit areas such as the Mid-North Coast.
- Chris Glenn
"This particular drought is certainly more severe than in previous years and has particularly hit areas such as the Mid-North Coast," he said.
"We would normally work two to three weeks ahead for deliveries but now it is more likely five to six weeks.
"But geography can also play a part in delivery times," he said.
Peter Vallentine from Water Tanks and More agreed it is getting more difficult to get tanks supplied.
While he carries some stock, the demand is outstripping supply.
"Tanks are generally made to order - but I haven't seen demand like this since 2008," he said.
"The first half of 2008 was great; there was a rebate on tanks and there was really strong demand.
"But then the GFC hit and not much has happened since.
"People are getting concerned about water supply with Port Macquarie-Hastings Council now at level 3 water restrictions and looking at level 4.
"People are really worried, particularly about their gardens."
Mr Vallentine said the 3000 litre slimline tank was one of the more popular productions on the market.
Deputy premier John Barilaro says homeowners need to check the impact of water quality following bushfires.
He said rainwater may be contaminated by debris, dead birds or animals, fire retardants, or large amounts of ash.
"If you have a rainwater tank, it's possible that it could be contaminated by debris, dead animals, ash or fire retardants," he said.
Minister for Water Melinda Pavey said staying informed is vital to ensuring the safety of drinking water from home tanks in bush fire affected towns.
"It is important to try to prevent water contamination by monitoring weather forecasts and sealing your water tank to avoid the first part of runoff after rain," Mrs Pavey said.
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