Tips for Locating an Underground Oil Tank

Are you shopping for a new place to call home or about to begin serious renovations on your property? If the building in question uses oil heat now or has ever used it in the past, there is a chance of a buried oil tank on property that isn’t immediately visible. Identifying the oil tank’s location early is critical, as buried fuel oil tanks may not seem like a big issue, but they can become serious hazards as they age and corrode.

Leaking oil from these old steel tanks can contaminate your water supply, seep through your basement walls and floor, and harm local wildlife. In some cases, fines for oil spills can reach tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Before signing on the dotted line or starting construction, it’s critical to determine whether an underground oil tank is present. If you notice signs of an underground oil tank, use the steps below to confirm the oil tank’s location and take action early to avoid long-term risks.

Cross-Reference Your Information

The first place to check for a buried oil tank isn’t in your yard—it’s in your paperwork. Review any documents you received when purchasing the property. If you see references to oil heat, treat it as a potential indicator that a tank may be present.

Don’t rely solely on the seller’s word. While many states have strict regulations regarding underground tanks, some sellers may not have complete information. Check your township’s municipal records, which are often publicly accessible, and ask direct questions. You can also search the Environmental Protection Agency’s UST Finder database, along with private databases that track underground oil tanks.

Check Oil Company Records

If a property has used oil heat, there is a strong likelihood that delivery or service records exist. These records can provide clues about whether oil was delivered to an underground tank.

Look for documentation of fuel deliveries, service calls, or repairs. While some deliveries may have been for aboveground tanks, others may indicate a buried tank that is no longer visible. If you suspect an issue or notice inconsistencies, it may be time to explore emergency oil tank services to assess the situation.

Look for Signs of an Underground Oil Tank

There are several visible indicators that may point to the presence of a buried oil tank. Keep an eye out for the following signs of an underground heating oil tank:

• Visible vent pipe: A vent pipe is typically 1–2 inches in diameter, made of galvanized metal, and often capped with a mushroom-shaped cover. Its presence near the foundation or yard is a strong indicator of a buried tank.
• Oil fill pipes: These pipes were used to fill the tank and may still be visible near the foundation or curb. In some cases, they may be hidden, cut, or concealed by landscaping or debris.
• Sunken or disturbed ground: Areas of soil that appear slightly depressed, patched, or different in color or texture from the surrounding yard can indicate a buried tank or past excavation.

Less Obvious Signs of a Buried Oil Tank

In addition to obvious indicators, there are smaller clues that may suggest a buried underground storage tank on the property:

• Copper wiring: Bundled copper wiring near the furnace may indicate oil heat usage. Even if an aboveground tank is present, this could suggest a previous underground system.
• Oil stains: Stains in the basement, especially near the floor or foundation, may signal a leaking tank. If you notice discoloration or unusual odors, contact a professional immediately.
• Old oil lines or fittings: Abandoned or capped oil lines entering the basement wall or floor can indicate a previous connection to a buried tank, even if the tank itself is no longer visible.