Improvement Ideas

Undeniable Reasons For Oil Tank Abandonment

Posted by Carl

Oil tank abandonment like that of the oil tank abandonment Westchester County NY is a controversial issue that many citizens are opposed to. The issue can affect the environment, cost, Real estate transactions, and insurance claims. However, there are some undeniable reasons why abandoning oil tanks in your area may be a good idea. These reasons are discussed in this article.

Environmental Impact

If an underground oil tank is left unattended for too long, it can leak and cause contamination to the soil and local water supply. This can cause serious health effects to people living nearby. It can also cause liability issues. This is why it is essential to have an oil tank removed adequately. Luckily, there are professionals available to help.

Oil tank abandonment is a much simpler process than oil tank removal. It involves cutting off the top of the tank, removing all of the oil sludge, filling the tank with sand or gravel, and closing off the vent pipes.

Cost

Oil tank abandonment is a relatively inexpensive way to eliminate an outdated oil tank. Depending on the size of the tank, accessibility, location, and type, the average cost can be as low as $600 or as high as $3,000. However, several factors can affect the cost of abandonment, so it is important to consider them when making your final decision.

Before abandoning an oil tank, a soil test must determine if a leak has occurred. If so, the soil must be remedied, adding to the cost. In addition, the removal of the tank will likely require excavation and filling the hole back up. Regardless of the situation, complete removal can increase a property’s value.

Real Estate Transactions

There are several reasons why an underground oil tank may need to be removed. Most often, it is because of a real estate transaction. The realtor will ask about the tank when a property is for sale. If the tank is still in place, buyers may be reluctant to purchase it. Even lenders are often hesitant to issue mortgages on properties that contain such tanks.

The seller must provide proof of the tank’s abandonment. In some cases, the seller has to perform a cleanup. Moreover, the buyer should obtain a de-commissioning statement before buying the property. Such a document can be added to the title of the property. It is also helpful for future owners. Additionally, the gas meter, fill valve, and breather tube can verify the presence of an oil tank.

Insurance Claims

Even though oil tanks are considered a minor part of a building, they can pose serious risks. If they leak oil, they can cause damage to other areas of the property and pollute the air. Fortunately, insurance for oil tanks can help you get the money you need to repair the damage. The amount of money you can claim for repair expenses will depend on the type of insurance you purchase and your policy limits. Some policies also require you to pay a deductible.

An unfixed oil tank can affect the value of your property. When a prospective buyer looks at your home, they want to know that it is free of defects. To sell your house, you need to have the tank insured. An unfixed tank can lead to costly repairs, making it more challenging to sell your property.

Leaks from Abandoned Tanks

A leak from an abandoned oil tank is a hidden hazard. It can cause thousands of dollars in damage. Homeowners should take steps to get the oil tank removed as soon as possible. It’s essential to ensure that the tank is de-commissioned, disconnected from the home’s heating system and that the fill pipe is sealed with concrete. The tank must be emptied of any remaining oil and filled with sand or foam.

Even if an oil tank is certified and has undergone leak testing, it’s not guaranteed it won’t leak. Many homeowners don’t bother to get this done, so the tank is still a potential danger.

Construction Permits

If you are considering abandoning an oil tank, the first step is to acquire the appropriate permits. You must obtain a demolition permit to remove the tank in most cases. The permit should specify how to remove the tank safely. It should also detail the process of tank safeguarding. There are several adopted subcodes that detail these requirements. If you need clarification on the process, consult a licensed inspector.

You may be surprised to learn that the permits that allow you to remove an oil tank can be pretty complicated. You must first determine the size of the tank and where it is located. Then, you must fill out the application to submit to the township. This process will take at least five to seven business days.

Compliance with NCDEQ Requirements

When it comes to oil tank abandonment, compliance with NCDEQ regulations is important. Numerous laws and regulations must be met, from leak detection to corrosion protection. Listed below are some of these requirements. Keeping these in mind will help you avoid costly fines. These laws can also help protect the environment and keep your facility operating. Listed below are the steps you must take to ensure compliance with NCDEQ requirements.

First, you must evaluate your risk to human health and the environment. This requires a risk-based approach and a method for determining the necessary cleanup level. This method must also consider the distance between the source area and a public or private drinking water source.

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