What to do with a hidden Underground Oil Tank on Your Property

Posted on Aug 30, 2024




Old underground oil tanks are a hidden legacy beneath many homes in Victoria, BC. Installed decades ago as a primary method of heating homes, these tanks have since become a source of environmental concern and potential liability for homeowners. This essay explores the history of these tanks, the reasons for their use, the modern imperative to remove them, and the steps homeowners should take if they suspect or discover an underground oil tank on their property.

History of Underground Oil Tanks in Victoria, BC

Underground oil tanks were commonly installed in Victoria, BC, from the early 1900s through the 1960s. During this period, home heating oil was a popular and affordable fuel source. The tanks were typically buried underground to save space, reduce the risk of fire, and prevent the oil from freezing in colder weather. These tanks were usually made of steel and had a lifespan of around 20 to 25 years. Over time, as newer heating technologies such as natural gas and electricity became more prevalent, the use of these oil tanks declined. Many were abandoned in place, often without proper decommissioning.

Why They Need to Be Removed Today

Today, these old underground oil tanks pose several risks, making their removal a necessity:
  1. Environmental Contamination: As these steel tanks age, they are prone to rust and corrosion, leading to leaks. Leaking oil can contaminate soil and groundwater, posing serious environmental hazards. In some cases, oil leaks can spread beyond the property boundaries, affecting neighboring lands and water sources.
  2. Health Risks: Oil contamination can release harmful vapors into the soil and air, potentially entering homes through basements or crawl spaces. These vapors can be hazardous to health, particularly for individuals with respiratory issues.
  3. Property Value and Legal Liability: Homes with old underground oil tanks can face decreased property values and difficulty selling. Additionally, homeowners may be held liable for environmental cleanup costs, which can be substantial.
  4. Municipal Regulations: In Victoria, as in many other jurisdictions, local regulations often require the removal of unused or abandoned underground oil tanks to prevent environmental damage and ensure public safety.

How to Find an Underground Oil Tank on Your Property

If you live in an older home in Victoria, BC, particularly one built before the 1970s, there’s a possibility that an underground oil tank may be present. Here’s how to determine if your property has one:
  1. Check Historical Records: Start by researching the history of your property. Look for any documentation related to heating systems, such as old building permits, property records, or previous sale documents. These records may indicate the presence of an oil tank.
  2. Look for Physical Signs: Certain physical indicators can suggest the presence of an underground oil tank. These include:
    • A vent pipe protruding from the ground near your home, which was used to vent fumes from the tank.
    • A filler pipe, typically located close to a driveway or sidewalk, which was used to fill the tank with oil.
    • Depressions or uneven ground where the tank may have been buried.
  3. Hire a Professional: If you suspect the presence of an underground oil tank but cannot confirm it visually, it’s advisable to hire a professional who specializes in underground tank detection. They can use equipment such as ground-penetrating radar (GPR) or metal detectors to locate the tank without excavation.

What to Do If an Underground Oil Tank Is Found

If an underground oil tank is found on your property, it’s important to take immediate action to mitigate any risks:
  1. Stop Using the Tank: If the tank is still in use, discontinue its use immediately to prevent any further environmental damage.
  2. Hire a Certified Environmental Professional: Engage a certified environmental professional to assess the tank’s condition and determine the extent of any potential contamination. They can also provide guidance on the next steps, including removal and soil testing.
  3. Tank Removal and Soil Remediation: The tank must be properly removed, which involves excavating the area around it, safely removing the tank, and disposing of it according to local regulations. Any contaminated soil must be removed and replaced with clean fill. Depending on the extent of contamination, additional remediation measures, such as soil treatment or groundwater monitoring, may be required.
  4. Obtain Necessary Permits: In Victoria, BC, the removal of an underground oil tank typically requires a permit from the local municipality. Ensure all necessary permits are obtained before proceeding with the removal.
  5. Document the Removal: Keep thorough documentation of the tank removal and any remediation work performed. This documentation may be required for future property transactions and can provide proof that the issue has been resolved.
  6. Notify Your Insurance Company: Inform your insurance company about the presence of the tank and the steps you are taking to remove it. Some policies may provide coverage for oil tank removal and contamination cleanup, so it’s important to review your policy and discuss the situation with your insurer.

Conclusion

Underground oil tanks, once a staple of home heating in Victoria, BC, have become a significant environmental and financial liability for homeowners. As these tanks age and deteriorate, they pose risks of soil and groundwater contamination, health hazards, and potential legal and financial repercussions. Homeowners should be proactive in determining whether an underground oil tank exists on their property and take swift action to remove it if found. Proper remediation not only protects the environment and public health but also safeguards property values and ensures compliance with local regulations.

References

  1. City of Victoria. (n.d.). "Underground Oil Tanks." Retrieved from https://www.victoria.ca/EN/main/residents/planning-development/inspections-permits/underground-oil-tanks.html
  2. BC Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy. (n.d.). "Contaminated Sites Regulation." Retrieved from https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/environment/air-land-water/site-remediation/contaminated-sites
  3. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). (n.d.). "Underground Storage Tanks (USTs)." Retrieved from https://www.epa.gov/ust
  4. Homeowner Protection Office. (n.d.). "Underground Storage Tanks (USTs) - Frequently Asked Questions." Retrieved from https://www.hpo.bc.ca/underground-storage-tanks
  5. Pollution Control Equipment. (n.d.). "Residential Oil Tank Removal Guide." Retrieved from https://www.pollutioncontrolequipment.ca/residential-oil-tank-removal
Disclaimer: 

The information provided in these posts are for general purposes only. It is not written nor intended to provide legal advice or opinions of any kind. No one should act upon, refrain from acting, based solely upon the materials provided & recorded, or through any hypertext links and other general information, without first seeking appropriate legal and/or other professional advice.
Share