Placing your home’s underground oil tank is a significant task that involves several essential steps. Attempting it as a DIY project is not recommended due to the process’s complexity, the tank’s size, and potential environmental impacts. Professional assistance and the best Domestic Oil Tank Removal Services are typically required. Here are the key steps involved in the removal of an underground oil tank:

Step 1: Locating the Tank

Identifying the exact location of the underground oil tank is the initial step. Professionals can assist in confirming the tank’s position and assessing if any nearby utilities might affect the removal process.

Step 2: Creating a Plan

Once the tank’s location is determined, a comprehensive plan is developed for the removal process. Thorough planning helps prevent unforeseen delays and may include post-removal actions such as replacing topsoil.

Step 3: Obtaining Permits

Approval from local government authorities is often necessary for this type of work. The removal company will handle the permitting process to ensure compliance with regulations. Failure to obtain the required permits could result in project delays.

Step 4: Using Proper Equipment

Specialised equipment, such as a backhoe, is typically employed to remove the oil tank. A professional removal service should have the necessary equipment for the task. The choice of equipment depends on the available space and specific removal requirements.

Step 5: Hiring an Inspector

While not always mandatory for permits, hiring an inspector is advisable. An experienced inspector ensures the property is cleared of hazardous substances and any potential post-removal issues are addressed.

If you are considering the removal of your home’s oil tank, it is crucial to engage a professional service provider like Willard Environmental Group. Their expertise and capabilities are essential for a successful and worry-free removal process. Contact them today for a quote and make the task more manageable.

Reasons for leaking Oil Tank:

There are several reasons why an underground oil tank may leak and pose potential risks. Understanding these factors is essential for ensuring the tank’s integrity and preventing environmental hazards:

Reason No. 1: Water Outside the Tank

Leakage often stems from corrosion, highlighting the importance of a protective coating. Without it, rainwater access into the ground can rust on the exterior, compromising the tank’s structural integrity.

Reason No. 2: Water Inside the Tank

Moisture within the tank can lead to condensation on the walls, pushing internal corrosion. Water access may occur due to factors such as low-quality fuels or leaks into the feeding pipes.

Reason No. 3: The Water Table

Awareness of the water table’s location is vital during property excavation. Continuous moisture accumulation may lead to persistent corrosion if the tank is under this level.

Reason No. 4: Poor Construction

Inferior materials or subpar construction knowingly increase the prospect of tank failure. Opting for low-cost options may seem cheap initially but can result in costly consequences. Poorly constructed tanks are also more susceptible to water access.

Reason No. 5: Loose Connections

Securely tightened pipes connecting the oil tank to the house are essential. Loose connections risk fuel leakage into the ground and permit ground moisture to enter the tank.

Reason No. 6: Bacteria

Microscopic bacteria inside the tank can produce corrosive materials, damaging the metal over time. A protective coating on both the interior and exterior is vital to mitigate the impact of bacterial corrosion.

Regular maintenance, quality manufacture, and cautious inspection of an underground oil tank are essential to address these factors and ensure its safe and reliable operation.

Oil Tank Search: Tank on Site

Upon discovering an oil tank on the prospective property, the next crucial step is determining whether the tank is active or decommissioned. In the case of an active tank, potential buyers should discuss with the property owner regarding removing the oil tank before finalising the purchase.

Regardless of the tank’s status, active or decommissioned, a thorough inspection for potential oil leaks is paramount. This includes comprehensive soil sampling and a detailed tank examination, looking for current or potential future leaks. If any oil leaks are identified, it is typically the responsibility of the current homeowner to cover the cleanup costs before the new homeowners can move in. Given the potentially high expenses associated with oil leak cleanup, it is advisable to avoid such issues altogether by remaining vigilant.

Upon discovering a leaking oil tank on your property, it is crucial to take immediate action to prevent comprehensive soil damage. Prioritising soil remediation and engaging professional oil tank removal services is essential to safeguard your property and the surrounding environment from potential hazards. At 123 Oil, our soil remediation and oil tank removal experts are dedicated to addressing your property’s needs and ensuring its long-term preservation.