Underground heating oil tanks can pose many potential problems to both home buyers
and sellers. They have been the source of many environmental problems such as contamination
of surrounding soil and ground water.
Leaks are caused by the rust inside underground tanks, or by an electrical condition
sparked by electric utility lines.
Buyers should have the tank inspected to make sure that it is structurally sound.
Buyers who do not want an underground fuel tank can arrange for an above ground
tank to be installed in the basement, an underground tank to be shut off. Cleanups
of any leaks will also have to be taken care of.
For buyers, the underground heating oil tank should be written in the sales contract.
For sellers, your lawyer should make sure that the description and condition of
the underground heating oil is accurate and up-to-date.
