Abandoned In-Ground Tanks
In-ground tanks are a sticky situation. A special inspector with a special metal detector is needed to be sure your dream home has an in-ground tank. This inspection can cost up to $250.
You should have a home inspection done prior to getting a tank search inspection though and let the inspector check for signs of a tank even though finding the tank is not part of a standard inspection there are signs of one that can be noted on the inspection report.
These include a visible vent or filler pipes sticking up through ground. A different colored section of concrete filling the leads to the furnace areas. Lines going to the furnace must be covered and a lot of times different fill was used.
If the signs are there the tank search inspection is recommended.
If a tank is found, under no condition purchase the home until the tank and ground is tested for contamination. You have no way of knowing if the tank was abandoned with hundreds of gallons of oil contained in it and that has contaminated the ground over the years. This is an issue you probably wont’ want to inherit all the issues that go with removing or filling an in-ground tank.
If a seller had removed or filled a tank with sand. Your attorney should ask for the township certification that it was done properly by the State DEP. The papers must be filed with the township. You should also ask where the tank was located and have the soil tested for environmental damage to be safe. The testing will let you know that the ground is safe.
Insurance on tanks, make sure that the insurance covers ground contamination and not just the leak. Your attorney should request to talk to the insurance and verify that ground contamination is covered.
Here at Clarksville Home Inspection, we do not do environmental inspections. We will include a courtesy check for signs of an in-ground tank though and can assist you in finding a reputable environmental inspector.
