Frequently Asked Questions About Oil Tank Abandonment Long Island

Why would oil tanks need to be removed?

Oil tanks typically have a 20-year life expectancy, and the shell will begin to corrode after that time period. Corrosion can lead to environmental pollution of the environment and soil or groundwater contamination. Because of this, state and federal requirements are in place to remove tanks before corrosion can occur. Eroded tanks additionally raise a number of economic, environmental, safety, and legal issues for landowners.

How do I know if a property has an underground oil tank?

It is possible to spot signs of an oil tank through visible indicators such as vents, pipes, oil lines within the foundation, or a concrete channel leading to a furnace area. For assurance, it is also possible for an environmental professional trained in oil tanks to identify if your home has an oil tank through metal detection, radiofrequency, or ground penetration.

Are underground oil tanks regulated?

State regulations do not govern tanks that have not leaked. Depending on the jurisdiction, they may have additional requirements for home oil tanks. Contact your city or county officials to determine if any regulations apply to your oil tank.

Why is soil testing necessary?

Oil may be present surrounding the soil of the oil tank if any spills, leakage, or damage has occurred. It is required to remove any contaminated soil under state and federal regulations.

What are the costs involved with a tank leak?

Small oil tank leaks can be as high as $5,000. Costs begin to increase by thousands of dollars based on the amount of soil needed to be removed and replaced.

Why do underground oil tanks corrode?

Oil tanks are made of iron-based metals which begin to rust after a number of years. The timing of rusting depends on the soil moisture, pH acidity, backfill material, location, thickness, and age of the oil tank.

What should we do if we find an underground oil tank?

Before purchasing a home, it is necessary to investigate the ground of the oil tank or to request it’s complete removal. If the current owner of the home does not provide any paperwork regarding the oil tank, assume that evaluation of the tank will be needed. If a buyer fails to investigate the tank before the purchase, the cost of removal will be the responsibility of the new buyer.

How do I test my oil tank?

To identify petroleum within the tank, 3 to 4 soil borings are placed surrounding the buried tank. Soil samples are taken to identify any remnants of petroleum and is then taken to a certified laboratory for testing.

What is the process for removing an underground/buried oil tank?

The tank will be investigated to see how much oil is left, and a cost estimate will be created for removal. All relevant paperwork must be completed and your city will issue a permit. Utility companies are then contacted to designate the area for excavation. Once an oil tank is removed, an inspection will be needed to inspect any oil leaks near the surrounding soil.

Is it possible to abandon and fill an oil tank?

It is possible, but if you plan to sell your property in the future then it will be better to have the oil tank investigated and removed. Abandoning an oil tank could cause issues in the future if a potential buyer is requesting it removed, or if there is no information about the tank. Mortgage companies are also unlikely to loan money to properties with untested oil tanks. Realtors, home inspectors, or attorneys may flag an untested tag to ensure that no leakage occurred.