Why Remove Your Oil Tank?

Homeowners and businesses in Weschester and Putnam counties that have outdated steel underground storage tanks (UST) can face liabilities and burdens if they fail to remove the tank and remediate any damage. Old underground oil tanks can rust and leak oil which contaminates the soil and harms the environment. These faulty tanks can even pose cave-in hazards. Most lenders will not provide mortgages for the purchase of a house that has an underground heating oil tank unless it has been removed by licensed oil tank removal experts, and many prospective buyers require tank removal prior to purchase of the home.

For years, petroleum products have been stored in steel underground heating oil tanks. Like most equipment, these tanks were not designed to be buried and left in place, so they have a finite life expectancy. Over time, underground storage tanks eventually begin to rust. As soon as corrosion holes begin to form in the shell of the tank, petroleum can leak into the environment, causing a whole host of dangerous problems for your home, your family, and even your neighbors.

Oil tank removal cost is generally between $500 and $2,500, depending on the size of the tank.

Oil Tank Removal & Installation

Replacing an old UST with a modern basement tank or double-walled underground oil tank can certainly save time and long-term anguish. Chances are that a tank that is only 10-15 years old will not be having problems yet. However, the chance of leakage increases as the tank gets older. Even a small, slow leak can be threatening to the environment, in turn becoming a dangerous hazard to your family and neighbors. Additionally, if the tank does leak, the cost of cleanup can be very expensive, sometimes up to $20,000 or more, compared to the $500-$2,500 cost of removal.

Can I test my tank for leaks without digging it up?

You always have the option of testing your oil tank for leaks, rather than simply digging it up. However, it may cost less to simply remove the tank from the ground. When testing the tank for piping and tightness, it is crucial to remember that you can only test the tank for the time being, and it would be impossible to predict what is going to happen within the next years, months, or even days. The likelihood of a leak increases as time goes on and the tank gets older, so chances are that even if the tank is in good condition at the moment, you will probably start seeing corrosion and leaking in years to come.

How can I test an underground oil tank?

The petroleum testing process involves several soil borings being drilled around the perimeter of the buried tank to collect a soil sample. Once the samples are collected, the one indicating the highest field screen reading is submitted for laboratory testing. Soil borings also help quantify the extent of the oil in the soil.

What if contamination is found?

If contamination is found, it is necessary to begin the cleanup process as soon as possible to avoid further environmental contamination. As a general rule, the longer the problem persists, the higher the cost and damage will accumulate. If you find contamination or even suspect there has been a leak, contact the nearest Department of Environmental Conservation regional office for guidance and assistance, or call the Spill Hotline (1-800-457-7362).

If you are in need of contaminated soil remediation services, contact Madison today at 914-276-8690!

When we are done

Once your oil tank has been removed your property is restored to its original condition, sometimes even better.

Photographs are taken prior to groundbreaking to insure that your property will look the same upon completion.

Final detail work is never overlooked by our meticulous project coordinators. 

We treat every property as if it were our own.