Why Do I Need an Oil Tank Sweep?
An oil tank sweep is the only way to confirm the presence of abandoned underground storage tanks (USTs) on a property. Builders commonly installed these tanks for heating oil in homes constructed before the mid-1980s.
If you are buying a home from that era, you face a significant risk. An undiscovered tank is not just a piece of metal; it is a massive financial and environmental liability.
The Risks of a Buried Tank
You cannot see an underground tank during a standard walkthrough, but the consequences of ignoring it are severe:
Environmental Hazards: Steel tanks corrode. Over time, they leak petroleum into the surrounding soil and groundwater. Identifying a tank early is the only way to prevent widespread contamination.
Financial Liability: If you buy the home, you buy the problem. Removing a tank and remediating contaminated soil costs thousands of dollars. Discovering a tank after closing destroys your budget and significantly impacts the property’s value.
Legal & Regulatory Compliance: State laws strictly govern the removal of USTs. If a sweep uncovers a tank, you must follow specific protocols to remove it and certify that the ground is clean.
Protect Your Investment
Don’t rely on guesswork or a seller’s memory. An oil tank sweep uncovers hidden liabilities immediately, allowing you to demand removal or walk away before the problem becomes yours.
