Eight Steps for a Successful Tank Removal
Removing an oil tank requires special care and consideration to ensure the safety of the workers and the environment at the same time. While the tank removal process might seem simple, the reality is that specific steps must be followed to minimize complications. For this reason, it makes sense to hire an expert team to help with oil tank removal in New Jersey.
Our team at Mikula is here to help, ensuring a safe and successful tank removal from your property. If you are interested in learning more about available services, then we invite you to reach out at your convenience.
1. Do Your Research on Reputable Contractors
The first step is to explore your options. There are many providers to choose from, but these services aren’t all created equal. You need to work with a team you can trust. Not only do you want to make sure that the contractor is experienced with oil tank removal, but you also want to check their licensing and credentials to ensure that you are working with a professional crew.
You’ll want to verify the contractor’s knowledge of local regulations and requirements here in New Jersey. You need to hire a team that can handle all environmental and safety concerns.
Other research can help you learn more about the provider through their reviews and testimonials published online. You might even be able to get references and have conversations with past clients.
2. Get a Quote for the Tank Removal
Now that you have a few contractors on your shortlist, it’s time to start comparing pricing and services. Request proposals for oil tank removal in New Jersey, clarifying that all of the services need to follow state and federal regulations.
Read through the estimates and scope of work. A detailed estimate should include everything that is necessary, such as labor, equipment, and oil tank disposal fees. The team should have full information about the project, including the type of fuel tank that is being removed and any other special considerations that must be addressed. Ask the contractor if there will be any additional costs that may arise during the tank removal process.
3. Check For Tank Access
The next step is to make sure that the tank can be accessed easily. Are there any barriers that need to be removed before the project begins? The tank must be accessible so that people and equipment can move through the area.
Sometimes, there are obstructions that need to be cleared out of the way to allow for access. For example, consider any structures, fences, or landscaping features that might affect the team’s ability to move around the property. If there are any challenges, a reputable contractor should discuss them with you and develop a plan to get the work done.
4. Call in Markouts
It’s essential to bring in the utility company before work commences. Underground lines and pipes must always be marked before oil tank removal can commence. If there are any utilities near the tanks, then the crew will use extra caution to avoid damage or complications.
This step should never be skipped. It is essential to call in the markouts to prevent accidental damage to the utility infrastructure during the tank removal. In fact, it is illegal to dig without a markout. An experienced contractor will ensure compliance in all stages by following New Jersey’s requirements for excavation safety.
5. Schedule Inspections
The next step is to have the tank inspected. Your inspection should be scheduled for the date the tank removal is to be completed. During inspection, we are checking for oil leaks that could be affecting the integrity of the tank and the quality of the surrounding soil. Make sure you are hiring an inspector who follows all state and local regulations.
These inspection results are always preliminary before the oil tank removal begins. This information is used to determine if extra steps are necessary for soil remediation or environmental cleanup. During this time, your contractor will also need to make sure that the tank is properly pumped out and cleaned.
6. Tank Removal
When you are ready to move forward with removing the tank, our team will bring all of the heavy equipment and tools to safely excavate and pull up the tank. Proper tank removal methods are essential to protect the soil and surrounding environmental factors.
Next, we are proactive about proper disposal. Certain environmental regulations manage how the tanks are cleaned as well as the best practices to dispose of the tank. An experienced contractor will document this whole process, including photographs and receipts if necessary.
7. Soil Testing and Remediation (If Necessary)
Once the tank is out, there may be a bit more work that needs to be done before the project is complete. You may also need to have environmental testing done to determine if there is a leak. The hope is that the tests will come back clean. But, if there was a leak in the oil tank, then it’s possible that you might have contaminated soil.
If contamination is discovered in the testing process, then you will need to add the extra step for soil remediation. We’ll work with environmental specialists to help with your personalized remediation plan, ensuring optimal results every step of the way. We always follow state guidelines for managing hazardous materials and cleaning up the soil.
8. Clean Up
A few more steps are necessary to take care of the site. We finish by restoring the area for environmental protection. Backfilling, landscaping, and leveling are often needed after the environmental hazards are removed.
We make sure that all hazards and debris have been removed and properly disposed of. Then, a final inspection is completed so that you can sign off on the project.
Work With a Trusted New Jersey Oil Tank Removal Contractor
If you are looking for a trusted contractor to work with, then call Mikula. We offer oil tank removal in New Jersey, as well as other related services. Contact us today to get a free estimate for residential and commercial oil tank removal and more.
What is the Process of Scanning for an Oil Tank?
If you own an older property in the Northeast, are there any underground heating tanks in the area? A typical home inspection doesn’t look for these tanks, so it might make sense to look into oil tank scans to locate any hidden tanks on the property.
It’s important to know if you have an underground oil tank because an oil leak can result in serious financial and health consequences in the future. So, you can take a proactive approach to prevent these issues from occurring.
Too often, forgotten oil tanks are left sitting for years, unused after the home was upgraded to a more modern HVAC system. Sometimes, homeowners and home buyers have no idea that they have a buried tank on their property. Oil tank scans are an effective solution for finding these old tanks and helping you avoid serious and expensive issues later on.
Choosing the Type of Scanning Technology
If you have a magnetometer, is it an effective solution for finding an oil tank on site? Unfortunately, this method is not good enough because magnetometers can detect any type of metal but can’t identify the difference between the two signatures.
For example, if you have concrete that contains wire mesh and a tank buried below, there is no way to distinguish the difference between the mesh and the tank. So, a thorough oil tank scan determines whether there are storage tanks and if proactive measures are necessary to remove the tank.
Ideally, hire a contractor offering oil tank scans who uses multiple detection methods. Here is an overview of the common technology used for oil tank scans.
Ground-Penetrating Radar (GPR)
This technology uses radar that sends high-frequency radio waves into the ground. The information that comes back provides a great deal of data in a short amount of time. Not only can GPR be useful in identifying subsurface objects, but it’s also possible to identify changes in the material properties (such as cracks or gaps).
Ultrasonic Testing
Ultrasonic testing is beneficial for oil tank scans because it offers unique information about the thickness of the steel. This information helps you determine whether corrosion is occurring so you can decide if the risk of an oil spill is so great that the tank needs to be removed. Typically, corrosion occurs from the inside-out, which means it’s possible to use ultrasonic testing to identify issues before the oil spill occurs.
Magnetic Flux Leakage (MFL)
MFL is a common technology used for oil tanks and other applications in the petrochemical industry. This magnetic method detects wall loss, pitting, and corrosion in steel structures. So, it’s possible to determine the structure and integrity of an underground oil tank without digging everything up.
Preparing to Do the Scan
Not only can homeowners benefit from oil tank scans, but these services are also helpful for home buyers who are preparing for a real estate purchase. A visual inspection isn’t enough, because you can’t get eyes on any oil tanks or hidden objects underground. Hiring an expert team is an essential step that should be part of your due diligence during the inspection process.
Collect the Data
The contractor will do a bit of research before completing the oil tank scans. For example, they will look at the date of construction to determine if there is a possibility of the oil tank being on the property.
Data is collected through visual inspection and using the different types of technology listed above. These tools provide data about where the oil tank is located, as well as any other buried objects that are on the property (such as fill pipes, vent pipes, and more).
Analyze the Data
After the oil tank sweep is done, it’s time to look at the data to determine whether the tank needs to be removed. The data is reviewed to determine whether there is a risk of an oil leak. It does so by showing us whether the tank has weak points or areas where the oil might already be leaking.
Make a Decision
If it’s determined through oil tank scans that your tank is leaking oil, then it’s important that you take action as soon as possible. Learn about the environmental and health impacts of an oil tank leak, and you’ll see why you don’t want to delay tank removal. These issues can pose serious threats to your property and loved ones. Even though it is a cost to remove the oil tank, it’s worth the investment to avoid even bigger issues in the future.
Do You Need an Oil Tank Scan on Your New Jersey Property?
Are you wondering if you have an oil tank on your property? Or, maybe you know there is a buried oil tank, and you want to make sure that it isn’t leaking. If you need oil tank scans, then Mikula Contracting is here to help. We offer full-service solutions for residential and commercial properties. Call today for a consultation and estimate.
Seven Reasons Why You May Need Your Oil Tank Removed
Oil tank removal is on the minds of all New Jersey homeowners with an old oil tank buried on their property. “Out of sight, out of mind” does not apply when the value of your property and your family’s safety is on the line.
When you find trusted contractors for oil tank removal in New Jersey, you can have the peace of mind that your property will not have an unidentified leak during the removal process. If you are ready to sell your home, understand that any potential buyers will want you to remove the oil tank before the sale goes through. Instead of waiting, sign up for oil tank removal on your terms.
1. Sale of Property
Imagine this. You have your property ready for sale. You are hoping for the maximum profit as you look at your neatly manicured lawn and new paint job. You find potential buyers that love the home and make an offer. You accept the offer! It’s every homeowner’s dream.
And then the inspection comes up, and with it, you realize what you forgot. The property has an oil tank, and the buyers ask for immediate oil tank removal. Not only is the value of your home immediately going to decline, but now you must find a contractor you can trust in a time crunch.
Instead of finding yourself in a desperate situation, take care of your oil tank removal now. You will not have to worry about surprises coming up during the sale of your home. Instead, taking care of the oil tank now means you can invite the inspector in with open arms, handing over the survey of your property with a sigh of relief.
2. Potential for an Oil Leak
Most properties with an oil tank no longer use the tank to produce heat in their homes. Gas furnaces have replaced the need for an oil tank replacement if your oil tank no longer functions. If your outdated oil tank is on your property, do you know if there is oil in it? If it has oil, is there a possibility of an oil leak?
What would an oil leak mean? What about the water that runs through the soil and spreads close to your home? These questions lead to an urgent need for New Jersey homeowners to consider oil tank removal.
The removal process is down to a science when you hire a team like Mikula Contracting. We will remove the tank, emptying it first to eliminate any risk of oil leaks during the removal process. We test the surrounding soil to ensure it is thriving and healthy for producing plant growth. And then, we backfill the hole and repair your yard to look as good as new.
3. Mortgage and Home Insurance Applications
There is no hiding an oil tank on the property. Your home insurance already knows about the oil tank. You must legally disclose this information to insurance companies so they know what potential accidents could occur on the property.
After oil tank removal, New Jersey homeowners will see savings in their home insurance monthly premiums because the property is no longer at risk for oil leaks, contaminated soil, and other hazards. Find a trustworthy company and get the job done quickly and efficiently.
4. Renovation Needs
If you are ready to upgrade your backyard with a patio, pool, or garden area, you may hit an obstacle when digging for a pool near the oil tank site. Prepare your property for renovations by starting with oil tank removal. Then you will not have to block off a whole section of the yard that is unusable due to the buried oil tank.
Maximize the use of your property by ridding it of an outdated oil tank. The investment into your property’s future is worth it.
5. The Age of the Tank
Oil tank usage dates back decades to when homeowners used buried oil tanks to heat their homes. Now that we have modern furnaces, we no longer need them. Underground oil tank removal from an experienced team would clean up your property and take care of any contamination if the tank leaked.
6. Health and Safety Reasons
Soil remediation is a must during oil tank removal. New Jersey residents should always look for removal companies that are thorough about testing the health of the surrounding soil.
Our team at Mikula Contracting is familiar with soil testing and removing soil from your property that will not benefit plant growth. In addition, contaminated soil can spread and negatively affect your family’s health– protect your loved ones with safe oil tank removal.
7. Being Proactive
You will never regret soil testing to see whether your buried oil tank has already caused damage. It could have severe consequences if you find out about an oil leak years later. If you test the soil and everything is fine, you’ve done yourself a favor! Once you’ve removed your underground oil tank, testing will no longer be a concern.
Consult with Mikula Contracting for Your Oil Tank Removal
Mikula Contracting is a local oil tank removal company that you can trust. We are familiar with New Jersey homes with obsolete oil tanks. Take action on the oil tank on your property with oil tank removal. New Jersey homeowners should contact Mikula Contracting today to learn more.
5 Signs It's Time for an Oil Tank Replacement
Your home’s oil tank is an integral and essential, if not sometimes overlooked, element of your house. Traditionally, modern oil tanks are set to last roughly 20 years, but of course some can last longer and some can, unfortunately, have a shorter life span.
Depending on your oil tank’s location, you may not be able to regularly inspect it yourself. If your heating oil tank is in your home’s basement, you’ll have a much easier time accessing and checking it than if your home has an underground oil tank buried deep in the backyard.
However, there are actionable steps you can take to see if your oil tank, whether it be located in your basement or buried into your outdoor property, needs to be repaired or replaced.
Leakage
One of the most clear cut and detrimental signs that your tank needs to be immediately replaced is if it is seeping any oil onto the ground. Oil tanks rust from the inside out, eventually creating holes in the storage tank that causes the oil to spill out.
Of course, it is much easier to see if your tank is leaking if it is located in your basement, but if you have a buried oil tank, you’re not out of luck! As long as you know your underground tank’s location, you can test the soil around it to see if any contaminants are leaking.
As soon as you notice your oil tank leaking, contact an oil tank removal company (we recommend Mikula Contracting) to remove it and have a new oil tank installed. You won’t want to let this wait, as leaking oil has the potential to be extremely hazardous to both your property and the environment.
A Wet Tank
If there is any moisture coming out of your oil tank, either on top of the tank or underneath it, this could be a sign that something is internally wrong with it and should be inspected immediately.
Typically, the moisture will begin to form at the bottom of your tank, and continue to form up its sides, eventually reaching the tank’s top. If the moisture continues to build up without you noticing, black icicle-like deposits will begin to form, which can lead to further, more immediate damage.
While this step will not apply to underground storage tanks, because rain, dew, and many other factors can contribute to your lawn being wet, if you have an oil tank in your basement and you notice wet spots on or around it, you’ll want to have it serviced sooner rather than later.
The Fuel Gauge is Not Accurate
If you think that your fuel gauge is not accurately reading how much oil is in your tank, this should raise a red flag. You’ll want to have it inspected immediately.
At the very least, you should plan on having your oil gauge replaced, but since it could be a sign of more serious issues happening within your tank, you may end up needing an oil tank replacement.
An inaccurate fuel gauge is not only a sign that your tank might not be properly functioning, but it could also mean that you’ve been spending more money on heating your home than you intended.
If you suspect that your fuel gauge is giving off inaccurate readings, get in contact with the team at Mikula Contracting so we can perform an inspection.
Exterior Damage
As we mentioned previously, an oil tank will, more often than not, deteriorate from the inside out. Over the years, debris builds up in the tank, eventually corroding through the receptacle. The moisture from the condensation builds up within the tank and interacts with the changing temperatures outside and begins to corrode from within, eventually reaching the tank’s exterior.
If your tank is dented or cracked, your alarm bells should be going off. If you notice that paint is chipping off of the tank, the heating system could be having serious issues that demand immediate attention. Similarly, noticing any rust on your tank is certainly a bad sign! If you spot any kind of exterior damage, it is quite likely that it’s time to remove and replace the tank.
If there is any noticeable damage on the outside of your oil tank, you could be due for a tank replacement. You will want to make sure an inspection is scheduled as soon as possible because exterior damage on your oil tank usually means it won’t be functioning properly for much longer.
Constantly Running Out of Oil
Are you burning through oil faster than usual? This could be a sign of damage to your tank.
As the homeowner, you should have at least a general understanding of how much oil you use in a typical season. If you notice any outliers that cannot be explained easily (perhaps this past winter was especially cold and you cranked up your heat for months), it is in your best interest to contact a professional to have your machine serviced.
If you are continuing to burn through oil at an alarmingly fast rate, it is quite likely that your tank is damaged and you’ll need to schedule a new tank installation.
Risk of Not Replacing Your Oil Tank
If you decide not to get a new oil tank installed despite noticing signs of damage, you are setting yourself up for failure in the future.
While it costs money to have an oil tank removed and a new tank installed, it will cost considerably less than if your tank seeps contaminants throughout your property and you have to pay for its clean up and removal. It could very well end up ruining your lawn and costing you thousands of dollars.
In addition to the eventual burden of oil seeping from your tank onto your property and the properties adjacent to yours, you could find yourself financially liable for not only the clean up of your property, but for that of your neighbors’ properties as well.
An uncontrolled oil leak is also extremely hazardous to the environment. As the owner of the land from which the oil tank is leaking, you could also be held financially responsible for the soil remediation of all affected properties.
As you can see, leaving your oil tank untreated and not worrying about replacing it can end up disastrous and can also lead to serious financial burdens. While you may be apprehensive about paying for an oil tank replacement, it will be much cheaper than waiting until disaster strikes; then, you could not only be responsible for replacing your tank, but the risks outlined above can end up costing you much more money in the long run.
But is there anything you can do if you are not sure if you even have an oil tank buried underground?
Oil Tank Scans
If you have recently purchased a home and you are not sure if there is an underground oil tank buried beneath the property, the team at Mikula Contracting can help! A buried oil tank is practically impossible to spot with the naked eye, and as the new owner of said home and property, it’s something you should absolutely be aware of.
We can gladly perform a scan across your property for a buried oil tank and, if we find one, we will certainly inspect it for you. If you’ve purchased an older home, it’s likely that there will be an old oil tank hidden underground.
Depending on the age of the home and the amount of time in which it was vacant, it is likely that the underground oil tank has been improperly buried or, at the very least, corroded. This is not only a huge environmental and safety hazard, but could potentially be a big liability for you, as homeowner.
At Mikula Contracting, we can not only find and inspect your buried oil tank, but we can also replace it with a new tank, whether you prefer it to remain underground or if you’d like it to be installed indoors.
If you notice any signs of damage to your buried or aboveground storage tank, contact the team at Mikula Contracting to schedule an inspection. We’ve been servicing oil tanks for decades, so we’ll know if your tank is repairable or if you’ll need to have a new one installed. Click here to get in touch with us today!
Know the Signs, Risks, and Solutions in Handling Underground Oil Tanks
It's not even used anymore. It's hulking in your building’s basement, or you know it's buried outside in the back lot. A look at when and why it's time to have a professional excavate and remove your heating oil tank.
The only time you never want to strike oil on your property is when it comes from an underground tank. These old and often-neglected containers are dotted throughout New Jersey, ready to cause environmental and financial headaches for businesses.
A new oil tank is a sturdy thing, but the older they get, the more they rust, degrade, and spring leaks. These are obvious red flags to proceed with repair or removal. As time goes on a business may upgrade its heating system and simply have no further use for the tank.
These are the signs it’s time to part with yours and what you can expect when removal begins. When the damage has gone too far, or progress has rendered it obsolete, the tank must be removed by experienced professionals who respect the process.
Oil tank removal step by step
- Technical appraisal and cost estimate – Oil tank contents are flammable and pose a toxic or even explosive hazard if handled irresponsibly. A technician will inspect the tank to see how much, if anything, it still contains and draw a cost estimate from there.
- Paperwork and permits – There's more to removal than just digging it up. Permits must be issued from local and state authorities who must be informed that the process is going ahead. The contractors themselves must also be fully licensed and covered to carry out the work. The best contractors will handle all that paperwork for their clients.
- Utility inspection and inerting – Your contractor will work in tandem with local utility companies to make sure electricity and other power lines are clearly delineated and won’t be damaged during the dig. The tank then needs to be rendered inert; a process which involves replacing the combustible oxygen in the tank with a non-explosive gas.
- Tank removal – Digging then begins to carefully remove the oil tank and transport it for safe disposal before the site is inspected again by an environmental official.
- Environmental appraisal (green light or clean up) – The ideal scenario is one where the tank isn’t leaking. If it has, it could be causing serious environmental damage including contaminating the groundwater – the source of drinking water for almost half of Americans. This is where the cost can rise from between $10,000 to over $130,000 dependent on the environmental impact.
You can discover more on the other oil tank dangers in our previous blog. If no cleanup is required, the property can be filled in and organically covered.
There are instances when a tank may be safely abandoned, rather than removed. It may be more structurally sound to leave it where it is. The rest of the process leading up to that final decision is the same.
There is some help with removal costs
On August 30, 1997, Governor Whitman signed the law establishing the Petroleum Underground Storage Tank Remediation, Upgrade and Closure Fund (UST Fund) within the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) and administered jointly with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP).
The UST Fund was created to provide financial assistance to eligible owners and operators of leaking petroleum underground storage tanks. The UST Fund statute was amended in 2003, 2006, 2007, and 2009. You can find out more about the fund on the Environmental Protection Agency’s website.
Financial aid is good news, and here’s more – amendments to New Jersey's oil tank legislation made non-leaking tanks eligible for the UST Fund. This provides grants for commercial property owners who want to be proactive in removing their oil tank before problems start. It’s a great incentive and certainly cheaper to act early than pay high prices for a leak.
Mikula is experienced with this classic problem
Funding or no funding, you’ve got an ally in oil tank removal. Mikula has over 70 years of experience in handling excavation throughout New Jersey. We perform oil tank removal from commercial properties in Essex, Hudson, Bergen, Passaic, Morris, and Union Counties. Our firm is fully licensed and insured throughout the state as well as being an Underground Storage Tank Certified Closure Contractor.
We’re proud of our professional ability to get the job done and of our personal care for how our work impacts New Jersey and the environment.
Contact us for a no-obligation quote. We’ll make your tank troubles a thing of the past!
Mikula Contracting, Inc. provides commercial and residential customers with a wide range of excavation, demolition, environmental, trucking, and soil materials services. For more information, call 973-772-1684 or email or email info@mikulainc.com
Careful, Careful: How Underground Oil Tanks are Removed Without Polluting the Environment
Most oil tanks weren’t designed to be buried
Rust never sleeps. It’s a Neil Young classic album, which many interpret as a metaphor for artistic vitality – without growth you’re vulnerable to the corrosive effects of age.
One thing’s for sure. Whether it’s a metaphor or not, rust truly doesn’t sleep. It’s the cause of corrosion for all steel underground oil tanks. It’s why they must be carefully removed so that they don’t end up contaminating the surrounding soil or groundwater. Here’s how it’s usually handled.
Expensive consequences
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) the average cleanup cost as a result of an oil spill from a damaged or corroded commercial oil tank is $130,000. It can cost tens of thousands of dollars for a smaller residential oil tank. For this reason, the EPA says that the best approach is to prevent contamination by underground oil tanks before they happen.
There’s an additional concern for homeowners. Your homeowner’s insurance policy may not cover the cost of damages and clean-up fees. Check to see if your policy contains what’s known as an absolute pollution exclusion cause. If it does, you’re not covered.
Is your oil tank leaking?
According to Smart Touch Energy, a heating oil provider, nearly 6 million American homes still rely on oil heating systems. The oil tank is usually located in a home’s basement, or it’s buried underground next to the dwelling.
It’s easy to know if a basement oil tank has developed a leak. You’ll smell it even if you don’t see it. Tanks buried outdoors can develop pinhole-sized leaks over time as the steel corrodes. The amount of oil released into the surrounding soil is small – often not even enough for a homeowner to have an idea of the problem. By the time the corrosion is significant enough to notice that oil usage is increasing, it’s likely that you’ve got a problem on your hands.
Often, homeowners remain unaware of a leak from an underground oil tank until they undertake a renovation or even decide to put in a swimming pool. The unearthed soil will have a strong oil smell.
Getting rid of that oil tank
Home expert Bob Vila tells readers that while natural gas heating systems are more expensive than oil systems, the natural gas heaters are more efficient, so they’ll recoup the cost of replacement more quickly. Replacing an oil system also allows you to get away from the expensive possibility of having to pay for the damages caused by an old leaking underground oil tank.
Proper excavation and disposal are not only crucial, but it may also be mandated depending on where you live. Here’s the biggest concern for any homeowner. Oil tanks on commercial properties are regulated by the EPA. An underground oil tank on your residential property is exempt from these federal regulations – mainly because most underground oil tanks were put in place before the EPA began to regulate underground storage tank systems (UST) in the 1980s. The problem – and it’s a big one – occurs if the tank has corroded and oil has contaminated the surrounding soil or even the water table. You may be held liable for the cost of cleanup and remediation.
In the state of New Jersey, there are specific steps you must follow – especially if there’s evidence of a leak. According to the State of New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), you must report a heating oil discharge regardless of the quantity.
Work with a capable contractor
It will be your responsibility to engage a qualified contractor to remove the tank and any contaminated soil. You’ll also be responsible for any remediation necessary to the surrounding area. DEP recommends that you work with a contractor who knows and follows the regulations the state has in place for this work.
Another reason why you should work with a licensed contractor is that there will be required local construction permits. A contractor familiar with the state requirements will also take care of providing the excavation site soil samples that DEP requires to determine that any contaminated material has been removed. The tank itself must be removed following proper state guidelines, as well as recommended practices by the American Petroleum Institute.
If the DEP is satisfied that all steps have been taken to remove the oil tank and any resulting pollution, the department will provide you with a no further action letter. This is a crucial final step because the letter may be required if you sell your home in the future. Learn more about how we help homeowners successfully move through the required steps for residential tank removal.
Here’s Why Recent Oil Tank Regulation Changes are Healthier for NJ
The irresponsible handling of oil tanks can lead to many problems ranging from toxic fumes, polluted water, and the compromise of fragile ecosystems. There’s no excuse not to take the utmost possible care. New Jersey laws have tightened up to ensure we’re all safer.
Things can get chilly here in New Jersey. It’s no wonder that so many homes use underground storage tanks to contain heating oil. Despite being a common measure, the potential public and ecological dangers of these storage tanks went unregulated for years. This saw our state making the wrong kind of headlines.
Thankfully, things have changed for the better in recent years and New Jersey is now more responsible in handling this old problem.
What makes the oil so dangerous?
Heating oil is a petroleum-based product that’s refined from crude oil and contains substances such as benzene which are known carcinogens. This puts a lot of us here in the Northeast at potential risk, since those states make up most of the 5.7 million American homes using oil for water heating, furnaces, and boilers. In 2017, 3 billion gallons of heating oil were sold. The residential Northeast consumed 85 percent of that ... and we haven’t even factored in commercial use yet.
Underground tanks that are unmonitored, left to decay, or damaged by contractors, expose humans and the world around us to many risks. Vapor hazards can cause nausea, kidney and liver damage, breathing difficulties, and increased blood pressure. Animals and the environment can suffer by surface/sub-surface soil contamination, groundwater pollution, property damage, and the death of local wildlife.
Last year, New Jersey implemented rules designed to make public and professionals alike more aware and accountable with heating tank management.
How our oil tank laws got an upgrade
The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) proposed a new, more eco-friendly set of rules for handling heating oil tanks in 2017. Their Heating Oil Tank System (HOTS) remediation Rules (N.J.A.C. 7:26F) came into effect in 2018 and applied to unregulated residential oil heating tanks both under and above ground, as well as commercial tanks up to 2,000 gallons.
The rules called for owners to be strict and responsible with the maintenance of their oil tanks. The owner must immediately contact the NJDEP to report any oil leak. They then have 48 hours to employ a Licensed Site Remediation Professional (LSRP) who can gauge the extent of the damage. Leaks less than 100 gallons can be handled with the help of local authorities, particularly if they haven’t significantly compromised surrounding ground/surface water or soil.
Owners have 60 days maximum to ensure the problem is fixed. Failure to comply with NJEDP regulations could lead to fines and fees for homeowners, business owners, and contractors alike. How can we minimize the chances of a leak going that far?
Some tips on identifying a heating oil leak
Like diesel, heating oil is a distillate but unlike diesel, heating oil is dyed a pink or red color. This was a measure imposed by the Internal Revenue Service (and not the Environmental Protection Agency as you might assume). Heating oil’s color marks it as exempt from local, federal, and state taxes, as well as letting users know it’s illegal to use as a standard roadway fuel. Other tell-tale signs include:
- Buckling or rust in your tank’s legs (oil tanks weigh a lot and need strong support or else they’ll give out and tip the contents)
- Dripping from any part of the tank or rusty spots on the tank’s exterior
- Debris or blockages around your oil lines such as dirt, snow, or insect activity
- Dead or damaged vegetation if your tank is above ground
If your tank seems fine and you’re thinking of contracting work on your property, you need a licensed, eco-conscious contracting firm to make sure you have zero oil tank issues as the job is done.
Mikula’s care and credentials for environmentally-conscious work
The professionalism and eco-credentials of a contracting firm make the difference between being fine and being fined. Many contactors may be lax with their licenses and slow to cooperate with the authorities if an oil tank issue arises. This costs owners time and money.
Mikula Contracting takes care to avoid these issues. If oil tank problems are unavoidable, you can be sure we comply fully and promptly with environmental agencies to reach a swift solution. We can help you whether you’re a homeowner/buyer or an estate agent with oil tank scanning and residential tank removal services.
We provide peace of mind since we are fully insured and certified throughout the state of New Jersey. Our licenses and certifications include NJ Department of Environmental Protection License, NJ Home Improvement Contractors License 13VH00769700, Underground Storage Tank Certified Closure Contractor, and OSHA certification for every member of our team.
Get in touch with us for a free estimate and to learn more about how the best professionals handle an oil tank.
Mikula Contracting, Inc. provides commercial and residential customers with a wide range of excavation, demolition, environmental, snow removal, trucking, and soil materials services. For more information, call 973-772-1684 or email info@mikulainc.com
Nobody Cares for Customers Better Than a Local Contractor
The benefits of hiring a professional speak for themselves, but does it really matter if your choice is local? It certainly does. Here are the many reasons why a contractor from your own neighborhood is a cut above the rest.
Right off the bat, a local business is quite literally invested in their community. They’re not some big national corporation or shady company from out of state who lack all the right licenses. When you hire a local contractor, you’re choosing a team that has roots in the same ground you do. It’s an empowering relationship for all concerned. Customers get the best possible service while the contractor further cements (pun intended) their standing in the community.
It goes beyond this, too. A local professional understands every aspect of their job and that includes the legal and financial alongside the manual.
A local contractor knows the letter of the law
Legal requirements for contractors vary from state to state. The companies who really care will know what’s needed for their locality and make sure they’ve got it. This tells a customer two important things at once. First, this contractor takes the law seriously. Second, they care deeply about their customers and their own reputation; an unqualified contractor sets their customers up for trouble just as much as themselves.
Here in New Jersey, contractors need to carry insurance before they’re even allowed their license to start working. This is an excellent and disciplined approach which quickly presents the best available option to the client searching. It holds local contractors to a higher standard and protects everyone involved. The same goes for being bonded. A bonded contractor will be compliant with all local (as well as state) license laws. Since New Jersey contractors are all licensed at either the city or county level, bonds really show awareness and dedication to their home turf.
A local professional has the right insurance and permits
Plenty of contractors will tell you they’re insured, and an uninsured one is easy to spot these days. Check out their website to see if they have their insurance details prominently displayed. If they don’t, they’re breaking the law and putting you at risk while doing it.
All manual labor puts workers at risk. The right contractor will have worker’s compensation in place to protect their employees alongside other coverage like general liability and umbrella. As the name suggests, umbrella coverage protects them from a lot more than general does. Safety is of the utmost importance to us, which is why every Mikula Contracting operator is qualified under the strict standards of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.
OSHA (as they’re more commonly known) treats worker safety as an absolute priority and they set the bar nationally for contractors when it comes to looking after their team. It’s more than common sense and laws; a safety-conscious contractor makes sure their customers don’t foot the bill for workers injured on the job.
We took an in-depth look at permits in our previous blog which are another benefit of hiring a knowledgeable local contractor. We’re also dedicated to keeping our local community as pristine as possible which is why we’re certified with the New Jersey Department of the Environmental Protection Agency.
A local contractor shares your weather woes
If you’re in the contracting business in New Jersey, you had better know about snow! Last year’s winter had many of us thinking we’d broken a record (but we had a long way to go). Any contractor can stay up to speed with our state weather via the web, but it’s only a local contractor who has the same experience customers do with ensuring your neck of the woods maintains business as usual.
Snow can be a sudden hazard. It can box you in overnight and leave driveways, highways, and commercial sites crippled for days, weeks, or even months. New Jersey’s northern communities are often the hardest hit and that’s why we provide both emergency and ongoing snow plowing and removal services with our state-of-the-art equipment.
What it all adds up to
Everything you’ve just read shows you why a local contractor beats the rest. Mikula Contracting is fully licensed throughout the state of New Jersey and we’re adding to our 73 year-long list of satisfied customers every day. We can be there to get the job done no matter where you are in NJ.
Mikula Contracting, Inc. provides commercial and residential customers with a wide range of excavation, demolition, environmental, snow removal, trucking and soil materials services. For more information, call 973-772-1684 or email info@mikulainc.com
Oil Tank Removal: The Most Frequently Asked Questions
Oil tank removal- it's important to ask the right questions.
Residential and commercial oil tanks have always been an efficient, cost-effective method for heating your home or business. The advantages have been well known for years. Still, there are also numerous cons to owning one, making oil tank removal a smart option.
There are many reasons why you may want to remove your oil tank. Perhaps it has become old and unsightly. Maybe you are tired of the excessive maintenance that is required. It could just be environmental concerns. You could be selling your home and you want to make sure that your oil tank is not going to be an issue. The bottom line is you want to remove your oil tank. However, there are some important questions you must ask first.
Why oil tank removal may be necessary
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The rising price of fuel
You can get an oil tank for less money than a gas furnace. On the contrary, you will pay more for the actual fuel. With all the political and global upheaval, the price of oil is quite expensive and it rises steadily each year.
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Constant upkeep
A leak in your oil tank can be disastrous. That’s why it’s vital to perform periodic checks to ensure the oil tank is working properly. The problem is that your oil tank may not be conveniently located, making upkeep a major nuisance. If you need to replace it, this could involve extensive disturbance to your basement or yard.
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Aesthetics
Let’s face it. Oil tanks are not exactly attractive. It can look unpleasant whether it’s occupying a large space in your basement or a conspicuous spot in your backyard. This can be a particular concern if you are selling your home and trying to attract buyers. In fact, some homeowner’s insurance companies are now refusing to cover homes with underground oil tanks.
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Harm to the environment
Oil is not the cleanest type of fuel and there are many concerns about burning oil and its effect on the air we breathe. An oil tank leak can cause significant damage to the surrounding soil and water for not only your home or business but the neighbors as well.
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The need for professional assistance
In most cases, if you have a problem with a gas furnace, you may be able to troubleshoot the problem yourself. The same is not true for an oil tank. For regular maintenance, installation and repairs, you need to hire a licensed professional to handle this toxic substance. There is also legal documentation and procedures that must be followed when dealing with an oil tank.
Questions you must ask when considering oil tank removal
Can’t I just fill the area with sand and forget about it?
While this was once considered a safe way to deal with underground oil tanks, today we know better. Years ago, oil tank failure was rare. Now, with these tanks getting older, it’s becoming more common. Filling the tank with sand can be very costly and time-consuming as well since you have to dig and then refill the hole.
Is it possible to receive assistance in paying for oil tank removal?
There are grants available to help with the cost of oil tank removal. The Environmental Protection Agency has a program to assist with this task as well. There are grants you can apply for online. Your insurance may cover some of the cost for expenses. The cost could range from $5,000 to $10,000 or more.
Does oil tank removal take a long time?
In most cases, an old oil tank can be removed in one day. A new tank can typically be installed in one day. If you opt for a new oil tank, an above ground model would be your best choice because you can maintain or repair it with less effort.
What happens if a leak is discovered during my oil tank removal?
This is reason for alarm. If your oil tank is found to be the source of ground or water contamination, the consequences and liabilities can be enormous. How it is handled will depend on the size of the leak and whether the oil has reached the groundwater. Grants and loans may be available to help cover the cost of oil tank removal and cleanup.
If the oil tank is not leaking or causing problems, can’t I just ignore it?
Abandoning an old oil tank is simply delaying the inevitable. Of course, there are different kinds of oil tanks, but if it is old, it may be one of the single steel wall types, in which case the question is not if it will leak but when. Corrosion and rust can breach the shell and leak petroleum into the ground. Even if the tank itself is okay, the piping leading from the tank could also be a concern. If you’re not going to use it, it’s best to have it removed before trouble occurs. Waiting will likely cause you to pay extra.
The house I want to purchase has an oil tank. What should I do?
If you don’t want the oil tank, it might be a smart idea to ask the seller to remove it prior to purchase. In the event that this is not possible, you should factor the oil tank removal into your bid. On the other hand, if the oil tank is the primary source of heat for the home, make sure you have it tested by a qualified, licensed professional prior to closing to ensure it’s in good working order. Also, check to see if the oil company offers insurance on the tank but be sure to carefully read and understand any limitations and exclusions. If they find a leak, the seller will be responsible for the costs or any removal or cleanup. Seek legal advice before making any final decisions.
What is the process for oil tank removal?
A technician arrives and takes measurements, checks how much oil you have left in the tank and provides a cost estimate for removal. All relevant paperwork must be completed and filed and your town issues a permit. Utility companies will be contacted to ensure lines are well marked to prevent damage and disruption from digging. After they remove the tank, an inspector visits to determine whether any oil leaked. If you receive a green light, then the area will be filled and covered with grass seed or hay. If a leak has occurred, appropriate steps will be taken regarding any cleanup activities or fines.
How can I choose the right oil tank removal company?
Make sure that the company you choose is reputable and has a long history of success. This is not the type of job for the inexperienced, amateurs or someone working out of his home. The company should have its own equipment, personnel, and insurance. It’s also vital to check licensing.
Contact Mikula Contracting today to discuss your oil tank removal!
