A Step-By-Step Guide to Oil Tank Removal in Westchester County, NY

When it comes to removing an underground oil tank, some concrete steps must be followed. These steps are crucial to ensure the safety of your property and the surrounding area.

For this reason, many homeowners choose to call in a professional for help. A professional company will know how to do the job properly and meet all local and federal standards.

Identifying the Tank

The first step in oil tank removal Westchester County NY is to locate the tank. It will guarantee that everything happens safely and without incident.

First, you should look for any pipelines that can be used to access the tank in your yard or basement. If there are, then it is likely that the tank is buried underground.

An underground storage tank (UST) is an underground oil tank located under the ground and filled with sand or concrete. Local governments and the state of New York regulate these tanks.

It’s crucial to eliminate USTs if you want to sell your house. Several mortgage companies do not allow loans on properties with buried oil tanks, and insurance carriers may pull your coverage.

Getting Permits

Getting the correct permits is necessary for any home improvement project, including removing an old oil tank from a residential property. Access enables the local governing body to verify that your project meets state and city building codes, including the New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code (UFPB) and applicable zoning laws.

To get a permit, you must submit an application, provide plans, pay the requisite fee, and assemble the appropriate credentials, such as a contractor license, worker’s compensation insurance, and liability insurance. In addition to the above requirements, you must have a good idea of your project and be prepared to participate in a series of required inspections.

This process may be daunting for a novice, but it doesn’t have to be. A professional company with expertise in many different areas can make the job simple and enjoyable.

Digging Up the Tank

Oil tanks and septic drain fields are notorious for getting buried underground over time, whether from re-grading or landscaping. Many are buried beneath decks and patios or in basements, garages, or additions.

The search for the tank is usually a tedious and frustrating process, especially if the homeowner is not physically capable of digging. Inspection companies, septic services, and plumbers often offer to dig it up, but the cost can add up quickly.

Once a tank is discovered, a good inspector should have several tools, including the usual suspects, like a metal probe and a camera scope. Some may also use a sophisticated LED light that illuminates the region to provide a more precise position.

Removing the Tank

If you are a homeowner who owns an oil tank and is considering removing it, hiring a professional to handle the entire process is best. It is for many reasons, including safety and pollution control.

A professional will also ensure that your tank is correctly disposed of after it has been removed and the site is backfilled. It ensures that your property is not contaminated and is safe for your family and others in the area.

Depending on where the tank is located, it may require special permits. The contractor should also have proper pollution liability insurance.

A competent environmental contractor can do the essential oil tank removal operations. They can organize an on-site inspection and offer a price.