Oil Tank Removal NJ Law – FAQS
If you have an oil tank that needs to be removed, you probably have a few questions about the process. Here, we address the most commonly raised issues:
How Would I Find Out If There’s An Underground Oil Tank On My Property?
Usually, there will be some signs that you have an in-ground tank on your property in the form of filler or vent pipes or a disconnected oil line through your property’s foundation walls. You may also be able to see a channel in your basement floor leading up to the furnace. If you’re in doubt, you can call an underground oil tank removal NJ specialist who will evaluate your property, locate the oil tank on your premises and then completely remove the tank in accordance with NJ law.
Why Do In-Ground Tanks Corrode?
All metals with an iron base tend to corrode, and because most in-ground oil tanks are made of iron-based metals, you can expect rust to form over time. The progression of rust on in-ground tanks depends on several factors, including: the moisture content of the soil, the acidity of its pH, the backfill material, the tank’s physical location, how thick the tank is, how much water is in it, how old the tank is, and any damage or scratches which occurred during the installation of the tank. All tanks made from steel will eventually corrode and then leak.
What are Oil Tank Removal NJ Laws
Anyone who has an underground oil tank at their residential property is exempt from the Federal Regulations. However, if the tank releases oil to pollute the environment, the property’s owner then becomes liable for addressing the spill and for preventing it from spreading. The NJDEP is responsible for handling all matters regarding leaks and spillages while the state’s role is to oversee, review, and approve any clean-up processes.
What Is The Procedure For Buried Or Above Ground Oil Tank Removal NJ?
The removal of any oil tank from one’s property must be carried out by a well-trained professional who is knowledgeable of all regulations and requirements in the removal procedure. A local fire/construction permit may be obtained before removing the tank, and a local inspector should be present. A utility mark must be performed in accordance with state law and, in the case of an in-ground storage tank, the tank’s top must be uncovered to allow the inside of the tank to be cleaned. Once all liquids have been removed, purging of petroleum vapor must take place and an inspection of the tank’s oxygen levels should be carried out before the tank is cleaned. Liquids will be taken off-site to recycle while the tank will then be removed, after which soil samples are taken and an official inspection is carried out. Finally, backfilling will take place in the case of an underground tank.
If you have an oil storage tank on your property, whether in-ground or above-ground, you can contact All American Environmental to find out how we can help you with its removal in accordance with NJ regulations. We are fully certified to answer any of your questions and our team of experts are ready to help you with your NJ oil tank removal.
