If you have an oil tank and are trying to clean it up, you might be asking yourself how the oil tank removal process works. This is a very important question because a bad oil tank can be very dangerous to the environment. Here are some things to consider:
Regulations for Oil Storage Tanks
If you are considering installing an oil storage tank on your property, check out the rules and regulations involved. They vary from State to State, but you can usually find them at the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ).
Whether you are a homeowner or an operator of a fueling center, you should be aware of these rules. For starters, your tank needs to be registered with the State. This means it must meet minimum design and construction standards. You should also be aware of the regulations governing bulk oil transfer. In other words, your tank must be leak-proof.
Another rule is to perform regular tank inspections. This is especially important if your tank has to weep holes. Also, make sure you are covered by pollution liability insurance.
Other regulations, such as those required by the federal Environmental Protection Agency, are important to watch. These include the requirements for leak detection, spill prevention, and proper tank closure.
Cost of Oil Tank Removal
Oil tank removal costs can vary depending on several factors, including the size of the tank, the location, and the environment. Some companies offer oil tank insurance policies.
Depending on the tank type, removing it can cost as little as $500 to more than $5,000. Generally, the project’s cost depends on the environmental conditions, the size of the tank, and the amount of time and labor required.
You’ll need to apply for a permit if you decide to remove the tank. The cost will depend on your city or county. This is a good time to contact an oil tank removal company near me and get a price.
Once you’ve got the estimate, you’ll need to complete the necessary paperwork. It’s also a good idea to take photos of the work in progress.
You will only need to dig up the entire structure if you have an above-ground tank. However, you’ll need to excavate the top if you have a buried tank. That’s a messy job, and you’ll want to find a reputable company.
Signs of a Damaged Tank or Pipe
There are several signs that your oil tank or pipe needs repair. Inspect your oil tank and vent pipes to avoid a potential spill. You want to avoid ending up with a costly cleanup job. Whether your tank is in your home or garage, it’s a good idea to check it regularly.
One of the most obvious signs of a problem is when the oil level goes down. However, it’s not necessarily a sign that you have lost your oil. It could be due to the tank’s overfilling or human error.
Another sign that your oil tank or pipe is in need is when you see a black deposit or a moisture spot on the tank’s bottom. These are rust spots and indicate that there may be a problem with the tank’s shell.
If your oil tank or pipe leaks, it could be a major environmental hazard. This is especially true if the tank is located underground. The danger is that the oil can spill into the soil surrounding your house, contaminating drinking water and wildlife.
Soil Testing
If you have an old oil tank, you must have it properly removed. Whether above ground or underground, you need to be sure that it is completely free of contamination before you sell the property.
The best way to ensure that the soil is free of contamination is to have it tested. This process is necessary to determine the current State of the tank’s soil and is also essential for optimal plant culture after the tank is removed.
There are several different types of soil samples. Grab samples, composite samples, and borings are all used to test for the presence of petroleum-contaminated soils. Choose the appropriate sample type depending on the nature of the compound or compounds of concern.
Soil borings are collected from the surface and deeper layers of the soil. Once the samples have been taken, they are processed. These are then sent to a lab for testing. After the laboratory has completed its analysis, you will receive a report with the results.