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Q
:: How do I know if I have a tank on my property?
A
:: All tanks must have a fill and vent pipe.
Unexplained metal piping found in the lawn or garden is usually an
indication. Capped pipes coming in the basement furnace
walls are another sign. Many people are unaware of
underground tanks until a home inspector discovers it just
before selling their home.
Q.
Am I required to remove my tank?
A
:: Single family homes and duplexes are exempt from
federal and Illinois State underground storage tank laws. A few
local communities have laws requiring tanks be removed when
they are not being used.
Q
:: If I am not required by law to remove my tank why should I?
A
:: The tank becomes a liability when it is time to sell
your home. Most real estate brokers recommend that the tank
be removed. In addition, although most tanks do not cause a
major environmental problem there are a small number that
do. In those cases the cost of the removal project increases
greatly. Removing them sooner is more prudent
than later.
Q
:: What if my tank has leaked?
A
:: Most residential tanks develop small holes.
These leaks are minimal and localized and do not require expensive
remediation. A petroleum odor in the basement or dead
foliage near the tank may indicate a larger problem.
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