An underground oil tank can be a major liability for a homeowner. While an underground oil tank can be a great way to store oil, it can also be a source of environmental contamination and can pose a health risk to you and your family.
There are many reasons to remove an underground oil tank. One reason is that they can leak, causing oil to seep into the ground and potentially contaminating your drinking water. Even if your underground oil tank is not leaking, the tank itself can rust and corrode, potentially causing a rupture. A ruptured underground oil tank can cause an oil spill, which can be difficult and expensive to clean up.
Environmental Considerations of Underground Oil Tanks
An environmental reason to remove an underground oil tank is that it can be a source of soil and water contamination. When an underground oil tank leaks, the oil can pollute the soil and groundwater. This can be a serious problem, especially if the leak is not discovered for a long time.
Contaminated soil and groundwater can be difficult and expensive to clean up. In addition to the environmental concerns, underground oil tanks can also pose a health risk to you and your family. Oil can contain harmful chemicals, such as benzene and toluene. These chemicals can cause health problems, such as cancer if you are exposed to them over a long period of time.
Understanding the Advantages of Tank Removal
If you have an underground oil tank on your property, it is important to have it removed as soon as possible. Removal of an underground oil tank can be a complex and costly process, but it is worth it to protect your health and the environment.
If you have an underground oil tank on your residential property, there are several reasons to consider having it removed. The most obvious reason is the potential for an oil leak, which can cause significant environmental damage and be very costly to clean up. Even if your tank is in good condition and isn’t leaking, there are still benefits to removing it. Here are some of the cost benefits of removing an underground oil tank from your home:
- You’ll save on oil costs. An underground oil tank can leak, even if it’s in good condition. A leak can happen if the tank isn’t properly maintained or if the ground around it shifts. If your oil tank is leaking, you’re paying for oil that you’re not using.
- You’ll avoid costly cleanup fees. If your oil tank leaks, you’ll be responsible for the cost of cleanup, which can be significant. In some cases, the cost of cleanup can be more than the cost of removing the tank.
- You’ll reduce your liability risk. If your oil tank leaks and causes environmental damage, you could be held liable. This could result in expensive legal fees and damages.
- You’ll make your home more marketable. If you’re selling your home, potential buyers may be concerned about the presence of an underground oil tank. Having the tank removed will make your home more attractive to buyers.
The cost of removing an underground oil tank can vary, depending on the size of the tank and the equipment required. However, the cost is typically between $500 and $2,000. When you compare this to the potential cost of a leak, it’s clear that removing an underground oil tank can be a wise investment.
The Process To Remove an Underground Oil Tank
The process of removing an underground oil tank can be complicated and expensive, but it is worth it to protect your property and the environment. Here are the steps you need to take to remove an underground oil tank:
- Contact your local municipality to find out the regulations surrounding the removal of underground oil tanks. Some municipalities require a permit for the removal, so be sure to check before you begin the process.
- Find a reputable company to remove the tank. Make sure the company is insured and licensed to perform the work.
- The company will need to excavate the area around the tank in order to remove it. This process can be disruptive to your property, so be prepared for some landscaping damage.
- Once the tank is removed, the company will clean up the site and restore your property to its original condition. The process of removing an underground oil tank can be complicated, but it is important to do if you have one on your property.
Be sure to follow all the steps in order to protect your property and the environment.
Selecting A Professional Oil Tank Removal Company
When you are ready to have an underground oil tank removed from your property, there are a few things to consider in order to select a professional company to do the job.
The first is safety. Make sure the company you select has experience in removing underground tanks and can do so safely. They should be able to provide references from past clients who have been satisfied with their work.
The second is cost. Some companies may be cheaper than others, but you want to make sure you are getting a fair price for a quality job. Get estimates from a few different companies before making your decision.
The third is the company’s reputation. Do some research online and see what others have said about their experience with the company. You want to make sure you are working with a company that is professional and will do a good job.
Finally, make sure you are comfortable with the company you select. You should feel confident that they will do a good job and be able to answer any questions you have.
By considering these factors, you can be sure to select a professional underground oil tank removal company that will safely and effectively remove your tank.
