If you’re interested in buying an apartment building or you’re planning to build one, consider the cost of removing oil tanks from the site. Oil tank removal can also help you keep your property clean since it eliminates the potential for leaks.
Soil testing
Soil testing is one of the most critical aspects of the oil tank removal Westchester County NY process. In addition to the obvious benefits of knowing that your home or business is free of a contamination problem, a thorough soil test can help you determine the cost of remediation.
It’s also a good idea to have your soil tested before you sell your house. If you haven’t had it done, you may have an expensive surprise on your hands.
Soil tests can be performed in a variety of ways. A soil testing kit or a reputable professional can produce results that you can depend on. However, depending on the property type and location, the cost can range from several thousand dollars to tens of thousands.
The best soil tests are those conducted by a licensed environmental consulting company. These firms have several advantages. First, they are qualified to do the job, and second, they provide a comprehensive environmental report.
Real estate transactions
An underground oil storage tank can be a real drag on the home-buying process. Fortunately, there are ways to mitigate the hazards of purchasing a home with an acrid oil smell. And it’s not just about price. Buying a home with a UST can increase the overall risk of the transaction, especially if the seller is unwilling or unable to remove the tank. For this reason, you’ll need to do some homework.
Using a contractor or the services of a consultant to perform the cleanup is a good idea. You can get a free quote if the former isn’t in the budget. The key is finding a company with the right expertise and attitude.
Of course, you’ll want to ensure the contractor is on your side. One of the best places to start is with your real estate agent. This way, you’ll find out what’s up before you take the plunge.
Environmental impacts
In addition to the health risks associated with old oil tanks, they can also pose significant environmental damage. For example, they can leak into groundwater and damage the soil and surrounding environment.
Oil spills are very costly to clean. They can also affect the food web and water treatment plants, making the water unfit for drinking or irrigation. It can even impact tourism and recreational activities.
Even when the tank is not in use, oil can still leak. Therefore, it is best to have it removed as soon as possible. A professional contractor can help you to remove the tank properly and then clean and dispose of the oil.
Oil tanks can also interfere with the construction of aboveground structures. If a tank has been leaking for a long time, it may be more harmful than it looks. Besides damaging the soil, they can also cause a loss of property value.
During the tank removal process, piping is disconnected, the surface coverings are removed, and the tank is purged of all the contents. The tank is then sheared and disposed of off-site.
Cost
The cost of oil tank removal is dependent on several factors. Size, location, content, and environmental issues all play a role. In addition, your state may require the removal of the tank.
Aside from removing the tank, the cost also includes backfilling, soil testing, and disposal of the remaining fuel. However, oil tank removal companies offer different prices and services.
Before hiring a contractor, check their references and get a quote. Also, make sure you know the type of tank you have. If it is an aboveground or buried tank, the cost will vary depending on the size and location.
Abandoned underground oil tanks require more work and are more costly to remove than aboveground tanks. Additionally, contaminated soil can be dangerous for your home and neighboring yards. Therefore, you should hire an environmental expert.
Oil tank removal companies charge per pound for the disposal of hazardous waste. Some companies offer insurance policies. It is important to find a company that is licensed and certified to perform the work.