A Hidden Challenge Of Older Homes: Underground Fuel Tanks

 

Let’s face it. Older homes have a great deal of charm to them. They just do. They are comfortable, warm, and just feel cozy. As a purchaser of an older home or potential purchaser of an older home you know going into it that you are going to need to pay attention to maintenance. We wanted to touch on a topic this week that isn’t talked about much but can be very important  and could pose significant risks both financially and for your health. This feature is an underground fuel tank.


What is an Underground Fuel Tank?

Underground heating oil tanks were particularly popular among home builders during the mid-20th century. The peak period for their installation was from about the 1930s through the 1980s. This trend was primarily due to the widespread availability and cost-effectiveness of heating oil during those times. Heating oil was a common choice for residential heating before the widespread adoption of natural gas and electric heat systems, which have since become more popular due to their convenience and lower environmental impact. 

After the 1980s, the use of underground heating oil tanks began to decline, largely due to increasing environmental concerns about leaks and contamination, as well as the rising popularity of more efficient and cleaner heating methods. However, many homes built during that peak period still have these tanks, which is why they are a common concern during real estate transactions involving older properties. Below we have included some ways to help a homeowner or potential buyer determine the presence of a buried storage tank, especially if there is no visible evidence or historical records.


After the 1980s, the use of underground heating oil tanks began to decline, largely due to increasing environmental concerns about leaks and contamination, as well as the rising popularity of more efficient and cleaner heating methods. However, many homes built during that peak period still have these tanks, which is why they are a common concern during real estate transactions involving older properties. Below we have included some ways to help a homeowner or potential buyer determine the presence of a buried storage tank, especially if there is no visible evidence or historical records.


Review Property Records

Start by checking the property’s historical records. These can include old permits, building plans, or service records that might indicate the installation or removal of an underground tank.


Look for Physical signs

Certain physical indicators can suggest the presence of an underground tank. These include: 

  • Pipes sticking out of the ground, often near the foundation of the house

  • Fill caps or vent lines, which are sometimes visible in the yard

  • Patches in the foundation where pipes might have been removed


Ask Previous Owners or Neighbors

Inquire with the previous homeowners or neighbors who might have knowledge about the installation of underground tanks in the area.


Inspect Old Heating Systems

If the house has an older heating system, especially one that might have used oil, it can be a clue. Check for abandoned oil furnaces or supply lines. Sometimes these are found in the crawlspace beneath the home.


A More Expensive, But Through Approach

Hire an Environmental Inspection Professional who can help you determine the presence of an underground tank by using specialized equipment and Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR).


View Environmental Reports

In some cases, environmental reports or assessments might have been conducted in the past, particularly if the property is in an area known for having underground tanks.


Bottom Line

Although you don’t want to rely solely on this, always start with a good quality home inspection. This person may have experience with identifying signs of a possible underground fuel tank in a home of this age. You will not only get information on the condition of the home itself, but you may learn about the possibility of there being a storage tank on the property. This will help you make informed decisions about your next steps. Remember that using the items listed above to identify the presence of an underground tank is not just a matter of locating it; it’s also about understanding the potential risks and liabilities associated with it, including environmental contamination and legal responsibilities. Knowledge is power is this situation and shouldn’t overwhelm you, but keep you moving in the right direction so that you can enjoy this wonderful home in comfort and safety.


We Are Here To Help

Feel free to call us if you have questions at 407-319-4608. You may also schedule your inspection or find additional information on our website.

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