Closure of underground storage tanks should be performed whenever a tank is taken out of service permanently. Failure to do so can result in the release of regulated materials at some time in the future, since steel tanks invariably rust and residues nearly always remain in tanks that have been emptied by all practical means. This is a requirement for all tanks regulated by the PA Department of Environmental Protection; regulated tanks include virtually all storage tanks except those used to store heating oil for on-site use as well as most farm tanks.
There are tens of thousands of residential and commercial underground fuel oil tanks still in service in the US.Many of these tanks were installed during the energy crisis of 1973-74; others were installed even earlier. US EPA studies show that most steel tanks over 25 years old lose their integrity! There is also substantial evidence that overfills of residential tanks occur on a regular basis; many of these spills are never reported. It is important to have a means to test soils around underground storage tanks if:
The property is being sold or the mortgage is being refinanced
The tank is constructed of steel and is over 25 years old
There is evidence of substantial water in the tank
There is a variety of drilling units designed to quickly and efficiently sample soils from around the bottom of underground storage tanks, regardless of their location.Our lead time is typically less than 48 hours!Findings can be reported based on either field or laboratory analysis; a report (with color photos documenting the assessment) is issued with conclusions and recommendations, as appropriate.We can also provide you and your buyer (or seller) with all the options for managing underground storage tank concerns.
