Underground storage tanks are easily forgotten, quietly buried beneath properties out of sight and out of mind. However, once it is time to remove or clean up, what is below the surface can easily turn into a cause of anxiety and the unknown. It could be old oil, corroded metal, or surprise contamination; either way, the cleaning procedure should be approached with caution and tolerance.
Fortunately, even this dreadful-looking task can proceed with fewer hassles with a proper approach. With some planning and the correct steps, it is possible to avoid any surprises and make the process much more manageable. Five easy but effective tips to assist in ensuring easy cleanup of underground storage are as follows.
- Know What You’re Working With
A clear image of what lies underground is important before any digging or removal is conducted. One could be tempted to think that the tank is empty or in good condition, but looks are deceiving. Storage tanks may rust, leak, or even collapse over the years. There are even situations when the homeowner is not aware of the existence of a tank until it is discovered during a renovation or inspection.
It can be clarified by hiring a professional to do a site assessment or a scan of the property. Such inspections will tell the size, material, and condition of the tank and also whether the tank has been leaking or not. It can avoid larger issues in the future as well as assist in directing the cleanup effort since they will know what is down there. It is always a good rule of thumb not to assume it is better to check instead.
- Obey Local Rules and Guidelines
Each city, county, or state possesses its own regulations regarding the removal of underground storage tanks. There are those that need permits and those that have special environmental requirements, and almost all of them will require some documentation after the cleanup has been done. Failure to observe these steps can lead to fines, delays, or extra costs in the event that a cleanup must be redone to official standards.
Before you do, it is always a good idea to check with local authorities or environmental departments. Those professionals who routinely handle underground storage are generally able to negotiate this process and help keep everything on the legal side. An easy cleanup can be initiated by knowing the paperwork involved.
- Select the Right Crew
Cleanup services are not all the same. Experience and reputation are important when choosing a group of people to deal with the work. A specialized crew in the removal of underground storage will possess all the necessary equipment, as well as the proper training, and be capable of improvising when unforeseen problems are encountered. They will also be able to manage the waste safely and dispose of any contaminated soil or remaining fuel safely.
This is particularly crucial in the case of residential oil tank removal, which may turn out to be more involving in case the tank is aged or in case it has been leaking. The appropriate professionals will understand how to contain any spills, safeguard the surrounding structures, and get the job done efficiently. Attempts to save money on this can frequently be more expensive in the long term, particularly when a hasty cleanup results in additional contamination.
- Prepare the Area in Advance
One of the most overlooked steps in the cleanup process is preparing the site ahead of time. This might mean moving garden features, trimming back trees, or clearing access paths for heavy machinery. Making sure the area is ready can save hours and make it easier for the cleanup crew to work quickly and safely.
If the tank is close to a building or under a paved surface, additional planning might be needed. In some cases, driveways or patios may need to be temporarily removed.
- Be Ready for cleanup
No matter how well things are planned, underground storage cleanup sometimes brings surprises. Hidden corrosion, difficult soil conditions, or even old debris from previous work can slow things down. The key to a smooth cleanup is staying flexible. While it’s natural to want everything wrapped up quickly, giving the process room to breathe can make the experience far less stressful. cleanup some situations, additional cleanup may be necessary if a leak has affected the surrounding ground.
Conclusion
Cleaning up underground storage isn’t just about removing an old tank. By taking cleanup to prepare, choosing the right help, and understanding the potential challenges ahead, property owners can turn a potentially overwhelming task into something far more manageable.
Sources:
https://www.epa.gov/ust/leaking-underground-storage-tank-cleanup-process
https://norconenviro.com/resources/removing-your-underground-storage-tank-5-things-you-need-to-know
