Buying - A House With An Above Ground Oil Tank

: Steel tanks typically last about 20 years. If the tank is older, experts often recommend immediate replacement rather than testing.

: Professional inspectors may use ultrasonic testing to measure the thickness of the tank walls, as they often corrode from the inside out due to water buildup. Key Risks & Considerations buying a house with an above ground oil tank

: Look for "weeping" seams, heavy rust, dents, or oil staining around the base and legs. : Steel tanks typically last about 20 years

: Outdoor tanks are exposed to snow, ice, and falling branches, which can damage lines or cause "gelled" oil in extreme cold (below 16°F). Buying a House with an Abandoned Oil Tank - GreenTRAX, Inc. Key Risks & Considerations : Look for "weeping"

A standard home inspection may not thoroughly evaluate an oil tank; you should hire a specialist to perform a comprehensive integrity test.

: Even if the current tank looks clean, testing the soil underneath is critical to ensure no previous tanks leaked in that same spot.

Buying a home with an aboveground oil tank (AST) is generally lower-risk than one with a buried tank, but it still requires careful due diligence to avoid environmental liabilities and unexpected replacement costs. Essential Inspections