New York Oil Tank Test

 New York consumers that are in the process of buying or selling a home should have their in ground or above ground heating oil tank tested.  Many lenders and insurance companies require buyers to have an oil tank test completed before the closing occurs.  When an oil tank is located on a commercial and/or residential property, it is wise to have a contingency clause in the contract prior to negotiating. 

There are several tests that can be conducted when purchasing real estate in New York and the need for each varies.  When purchasing a home in NY often a combination of soil testing and oil tank testing is appropriate.  To obtain information on the most accurate New York tank test click here and fill out the contact information form.

Types of heating oil tanks:

There are two kinds of residential and commercial heating oil storage tanks.  
    -  An above ground storage tank (AST) is usually located on the outside of a home or business or 
        in a basement, garage or crawl space.
    -  An underground storage tank (UST) is a tank that is buried beneath the ground. 

The size of an oil tank is usually indicated on the fuel delivery ticket from your heating oil company.  The most common oil tank sizes are 275 and 330 gallons for above ground tanks (AST), and 550, 1000 and 1080 gallons for underground oil storage tanks (UST).  Whether in ground or above ground, an oil tank test is needed periodically to make sure the tank has not been compromised.  New York consumers with in ground or above ground oil tanks should look into obtaining oil tank insurance to limit their environmental exposure.

Life expectancy:

The life expectancy of buried oil tanks vary depending on materials used in their manufacture, how the tank was installed, and the composition of the surrounding soil.  Most New York oil tanks may last many decades without any problems.  Proper installation, tank testing, and maintenance can further increase the life span of your oil tank.

Heating oil tank replacement options:

If your current NY heating oil tank needs to be replaced, you have options.  Replace a buried oil tank with an above ground tank.  These tanks are normally smaller, 275 or 330 gallons and can be customized for hard to fit places.  An above ground oil tank can also be installed outside of a home or business and hidden in an oil tank enclosure.  Replacing a tank should be a last resort when all else fails.  This could be very costly and in most cases not needed.  Order a tank test today.