For municipalities, water districts, and industrial facilities across Nevada and the Western United States, a water storage tank inspection is one of the most important steps in protecting both public health and long-term infrastructure investments. Steel water tanks are built to last for decades, but only when they are properly monitored and maintained. Harsh desert sun, freezing mountain winters, and constant contact with treated water all take a toll over time. Resource Development Co, a Reno, NV general contractor with more than 50 years of experience building welded steel storage tanks, understands what it takes to keep these critical structures performing as intended. This guide explains why routine inspections matter, what inspectors look for, how often tanks should be evaluated, and what happens when an inspection uncovers a problem.
Why water storage tank inspection matters
Water storage tanks serve as the backbone of a community's water system. They maintain pressure, provide emergency reserves for firefighting, and balance supply during periods of peak demand. When a tank fails or becomes contaminated, the consequences reach far beyond the structure itself. A consistent water storage tank inspection program helps owners catch small issues before they grow into service interruptions, boil-water notices, or emergency replacements.
Corrosion is the most common threat to steel tanks. Once a protective coating begins to break down, bare steel is exposed to oxygen and moisture, and deterioration can accelerate quickly. Sediment buildup, damaged vents, faulty hatches, and failing seals can also create pathways for contamination from birds, insects, and debris. Because most of these problems develop out of sight, they often go unnoticed until a professional takes a close look.
There is also a strong financial case for regular evaluation. Recoating or repairing a tank based on early water storage tank inspection findings typically costs a fraction of what a full replacement would. For utilities working within tight capital budgets, proactive maintenance is one of the most effective ways to stretch the service life of existing assets. Resource Development Co has seen firsthand how well-maintained tanks can remain in reliable service for generations.
What a water storage tank inspection covers
A thorough evaluation looks at every part of the structure, inside and out. While the exact scope depends on the tank type, age, and regulatory requirements, most assessments address the following areas.
Exterior inspection
The exterior review focuses on coating condition, structural components, and safety features. Inspectors look for peeling, chalking, blistering, and rust on the shell and roof. They examine the foundation for cracking, settlement, or erosion, and they check anchor bolts, ladders, railings, and fall-protection systems. Vents, overflow pipes, and screens are reviewed to confirm they are intact and properly sealed against animals and debris.
Interior inspection
The interior portion of a water storage tank inspection evaluates the lining that is in direct contact with potable water. Inspectors assess coating adhesion, look for pitting and corrosion on the floor and shell, and measure sediment accumulation. Interior work may be performed by draining the tank or by using remotely operated vehicles or certified divers, which allows the tank to stay in service during the assessment.
Sanitary and security review
Water quality protection is a core goal of every evaluation. Inspectors verify that hatches are locked and sealed, that vent screens meet current standards, and that there are no openings where contaminants could enter. Security features such as fencing, alarms, and access controls are also reviewed.
How often should tanks be inspected?
Industry guidance from the American Water Works Association generally recommends that potable water tanks receive a comprehensive inspection every three to five years, with more frequent visual checks of the exterior and surrounding site. State regulations and local water system requirements may call for a different schedule, so owners should confirm what applies to their facilities. Tanks that also serve fire protection needs may be subject to additional requirements under NFPA 25.
Certain conditions justify a water storage tank inspection sooner than the standard interval. These include water quality complaints, visible rust staining, a recent seismic event, severe weather, or evidence of vandalism. Tanks with older coating systems, especially those that may contain lead-based paint, should also be monitored closely. In the Western United States, where temperature swings and wildfire risk can stress infrastructure, staying ahead of the schedule is often the wiser choice.
Resource Development Co encourages tank owners to keep detailed records from every assessment. Tracking coating condition and corrosion over time makes it easier to plan budgets and schedule rehabilitation before failures occur.
From inspection findings to lasting repairs
An inspection report is only as valuable as the action that follows it. Once findings are documented, owners need a qualified contractor who can turn recommendations into completed work. This is where experience in tank construction makes a meaningful difference.
Resource Development Co has erected more than 500 AWWA D100 welded steel water storage tanks across the Western United States since 1972. That depth of experience gives the team a practical understanding of how tanks are designed, fabricated, and assembled, which directly informs how they should be repaired. When a water storage tank inspection identifies structural damage, coating failure, or outdated components, Resource Development Co can provide the in-house fabrication, welding, and field crews needed to address it.
Coating rehabilitation is one of the most common outcomes of an evaluation. Resource Development Co applies products from leading manufacturers such as Sherwin-Williams, Carboline, Tnemec, and Devoe, giving owners flexibility to select the right system for potable water service, exterior UV exposure, or harsh industrial environments. Other repairs may include replacing vents and hatches, upgrading ladders and safety systems, repairing welds, or improving site drainage around the foundation. When a tank has reached the end of its useful life, the same team can design and build a replacement from the ground up.
Choosing the right partner for your tank
Not every contractor has the specialized knowledge needed to maintain and repair steel water storage tanks. When evaluating partners, owners should look for proven experience with AWWA standards, a strong safety record, and the ability to handle multiple phases of work under one roof.
Resource Development Co brings all three. The company holds contractor licenses in both Nevada and California and has earned repeated safety recognition, including an award for more than 250,000 hours worked in 2024. Its portfolio extends beyond tanks into heavy civil water and wastewater construction, including treatment facilities, pump stations, and large-diameter pipelines. This broad capability means Resource Development Co can address not only the tank itself but also the yard piping, site work, and related infrastructure that a water storage tank inspection may flag.
Working with a single, experienced contractor also simplifies project management. Owners benefit from clear communication, coordinated scheduling, and accountability from the first site visit through the final walkthrough.
Tips for preparing for a water storage tank inspection
A little preparation helps any assessment run smoothly. Gather records from previous inspections, coating applications, and repairs so the inspector can compare current conditions against historical data. Review as-built drawings if they are available. Coordinate with operations staff to plan for reduced storage if the tank will be drained and confirm backup supply arrangements for customers.
Owners should also share any concerns they have noticed, such as water quality changes, unusual noises, or visible leaks. The more information provided upfront, the more targeted and useful the water storage tank inspection report will be. Once the report is delivered, schedule time to review the findings with your contractor and prioritize repairs based on risk, regulatory requirements, and budget.
How Resource Development Co supports your water infrastructure
Protecting your water supply starts with knowing the true condition of your tanks. A regular water storage tank inspection program, paired with timely repairs and recoating, keeps infrastructure safe, compliant, and cost-effective for decades. Resource Development Co is a Reno, NV general contractor serving communities throughout Nevada, California, and the Western United States, with more than five decades of experience in welded steel storage tanks, industrial coatings, and heavy civil water and wastewater construction. Whether your inspection has revealed needed repairs or you are planning a new tank, the team is ready to help. Call the office at 775.356.8004, email info@resourcedevelopmentco.com, or contact us to get your project started.
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