Inspection Tip: Underground fuel storage tanks previously used for home heating oil

DEFINITION
Underground fuel storage tanks, for home heating oil, that have been out of service for more than one year, are required to be properly removed from the ground or closed in place as required by the Washington State Department of Ecology. The Washington State Department of Ecology offers an exemption for home heating oil tanks of less than 1,100 gallons. Authority for proper closure is forwarded to the local fire departments and building departments who gain their authority from the Uniform Fire Code in Article 79 – 7902.1.7.2.3. NOTE: Home heating oil tanks that remain in service are not required to be closed in place or removed unless known to be leaking.

NOTE: The new home inspection law does not require home inspectors to identify or comment on underground oil tanks. However, the law regarding the removal or abandonment in place laws have not changed. A two-edged sword that could bite you.

POTENTIAL AREA(S) OF CONCERN
Clues for determining if you have an underground fuel tank on site at your listing or property your client is purchasing:

Was the home built in the 1930’s, 40’s, 50’s, or early 60’s?

Does the home have a small chimney with no known fireplace or stove?

Does the home have a basement or cellar? Oil fired furnaces were used in ground level homes as well, but the tank was typically elevated above ground.

Do you see tank fill (2’’) and/or vent piping (1’’) above ground near the home?

Does the current owner have knowledge of an underground fuel tank?

Did your inspector identify an underground tank location during his or her property inspection?

CORRECTIVE ACTION RECOMMENDATIONS
Underground fuel storage tanks for home heating oil, that have been out of service for more than one year, are required to be properly removed from the ground or closed in place as required by the Washington State Department of Ecology. Several options may be considered. Properly close the tank in place or remove the tank from the ground and from the property. Several environmental companies are known in the Tri-Cities to perform this work, and the prices vary considerably depending upon the company used, and ease of access to the tank. Review the phonebook under Environmental and Ecological Services.

POTENTIAL LIABILITY VS SALES IMPACT
Moderate/Low

ESTIMATED COST OF REPAIRS
Closure of the tank in place ranges from $350.00 to $1,200 or more if access is not hampered (concrete poured over the tank). Removal of the tank depends upon access for excavation equipment, and repairs to the property due to excavation damage.

This information has been provided by John Cagle, President of AccuSpec Technologies, Inc.

John is a trusted authority in home inspection and I recommend his services to all my clients.

John Cagle is the corporate president of AccuSpec Technologies Inc. John has in excess of 45 years of experience in the construction industry with a background in general contracting, electrical, and fire service. John is licensed, bonded, and insured in the state of Washington as a home inspector, structural pest inspector, and has been in business as AccuSpec Technologies since 2001 serving the Tri-Cities and surrounding areas. John provides home and pest inspection, qualitative/quantitative water well testing, PowerPoint presentations and training to real estate offices and private organizations on request. John is available to answer your questions, or perform inspections at 509-430-8353.