Oil Tank Removal FAQ
Get answers to common questions about oil tank removal, costs, regulations, and what to expect during the process.
How much does oil tank removal cost?
Oil tank removal costs typically range from $1,000 to $3,500 for a standard underground tank. Factors affecting price include tank size, location, accessibility, and whether soil contamination is present. Above-ground tanks are generally less expensive to remove ($500-$1,500). If soil remediation is needed, costs can increase significantly to $10,000-$50,000 or more depending on the extent of contamination.
How do I know if I have a buried oil tank?
Signs of a buried oil tank include: oil fill and vent pipes sticking out of the ground, a patch of dead grass in your yard, records showing the home was heated by oil, or visible supply lines in the basement. The most reliable way to confirm is with a professional tank sweep using ground-penetrating radar or metal detection equipment.
Is oil tank removal required when selling a home?
While not always legally required, most buyers and mortgage lenders require tank removal or certification before closing. A buried tank is considered a liability due to potential environmental contamination. Many real estate contracts include contingencies for tank testing and removal.
What is a tank sweep?
A tank sweep is a non-invasive inspection using ground-penetrating radar (GPR) or magnetometry to detect buried metal objects, including oil tanks. Tank sweeps typically cost $200-$500 and can identify tanks without digging. This is often required during real estate transactions.
Can I remove an oil tank myself?
No. Oil tank removal must be performed by licensed, insured contractors who follow state environmental regulations. DIY removal is illegal in most states and can result in fines, improper disposal penalties, and liability for any contamination. Always hire a certified professional.
What happens if my tank has leaked?
If soil testing reveals contamination, you'll need soil remediation. This involves excavating and removing contaminated soil, which is disposed of at approved facilities. The remediation process is overseen by your state's environmental agency. Costs depend on contamination extent but typically range from $10,000 to $50,000+.
How long does tank removal take?
Standard underground tank removal takes 1-2 days. This includes excavation, tank removal, soil sampling, backfilling, and surface restoration. If contamination is found, remediation can extend the timeline to several weeks depending on the extent of cleanup required.
Do I need permits for tank removal?
Yes, permits are required in most jurisdictions. Your contractor should handle permit applications with local authorities and/or state environmental agencies. Permits ensure proper procedures are followed and documentation is maintained for property records.
What's the difference between tank removal and abandonment?
Tank removal involves physically excavating and disposing of the tank. Abandonment-in-place involves cleaning the tank and filling it with sand, foam, or concrete, leaving it buried. Removal is generally preferred as it eliminates all future liability, though abandonment may be acceptable in some situations where removal isn't feasible.
Will my homeowner's insurance cover tank removal?
Standard homeowner's insurance typically doesn't cover tank removal or remediation. However, some insurers offer pollution liability coverage as an add-on. If you discover a leak, contact your insurance company immediately - some policies may cover cleanup costs if contamination occurred during the policy period.
How do I choose a tank removal contractor?
Look for contractors who are: licensed and insured for environmental work, certified by your state's environmental agency, experienced with residential tank removal, willing to provide references and written estimates, and knowledgeable about local regulations. Always get multiple quotes and verify credentials.
What soil tests are performed during tank removal?
During removal, soil samples are taken from beneath and around the tank location. These samples are sent to certified labs to test for petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH), BTEX compounds (benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, xylene), and other contaminants. Results determine whether remediation is needed.
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