An oil tank sweep is typically performed to check for the presence of underground storage tanks (USTs) on a property. These tanks were commonly used to store heating oil and other petroleum-based products for residential and commercial properties. If you are considering buying or selling a property that was built before the mid-1980s, there may be an underground storage tank on the property that could pose environmental and financial risks.
Here are some reasons why you might need an oil tank sweep:
Environmental concerns: Old USTs can corrode and leak over time, leading to soil and groundwater contamination. If a tank is found, an assessment of the site and surrounding areas may be required to ensure that there is no contamination.
Financial risks: If an UST is discovered, it may need to be removed and any soil contamination cleaned up. This can be a costly process that could impact the value of the property.
Compliance with regulations: Many states have regulations regarding the installation, use, and removal of USTs. If a tank is found, you may need to comply with these regulations to ensure that the tank is removed and any contamination is cleaned up properly.
Overall, an oil tank sweep can help identify potential issues related to underground storage tanks and allow you to take appropriate steps to address them before they become bigger problems.
