Why Should I Remove My Basement Oil Tank Instead of Leaving It?

The Problem with Old Basement Tanks

Basement oil tanks are commonly found in older homes throughout the region. While many are no longer in use, they still present risks:

• Leak risk: Corrosion and rust in damp basements can lead to slow oil leaks, causing odors and costly cleanup.
• Real estate complications: Leftover tanks are often flagged during home inspections, causing delays.
• Insurance issues: Many policies won’t cover damages from an unused or leaking tank left in place.

If you’re unsure whether you should remove or replace your oil tank, we can help. We’ll evaluate your oil tank’s safety and condition and compare costs with you so you can make an informed decision.

Real Estate Impacts

When it comes time to sell, oil tank removal from basement spaces can help speed up the closing process. Most realtors and buyers view leftover tanks as red flags, even if they’re empty.

Removing your tank before listing your home can:

• Avoid last-minute delays: A flagged tank can hold up inspections and closing dates.
• Increase buyer confidence: Proactive removal demonstrates good maintenance and responsibility.
• Prevent stalled negotiations: Buyers may request credits or repairs, which could reduce your asking price.

If you’re selling soon, make sure to get your tank inspected and consider having it safely removed before you list your property.

Other Reasons To Remove a Residential Oil Tank

Beyond resale value, there are additional benefits to removing an old tank:

• Free up space: Create room for storage, a workshop, or even a finished basement.
• Reduce liability: Unused tanks can deteriorate and leak over time, creating an environmental hazard.
• Avoid safety concerns: Even empty tanks can release fumes or harbor residual oil sludge. That’s why we don’t recommend leaving an oil tank empty.

If you’re no longer using oil for heating your home and you have an empty tank in your basement, the best option is usually to remove it.

Our Basement Tank Removal Process

Superior Tank & Energy offers a fast, professional, and fully compliant process to help you get rid of a basement oil tank safely:

• Pump out product: Any remaining oil is pumped into our secure holding tank for disposal.
• Remove fill & vent piping: Exterior wall openings are patched and sealed.
• Disconnect oil lines: Lines are either removed or securely plugged.
• Tank removal: If the tank fits through your doors, we remove it in one piece. Otherwise, it’s cleaned and cut into safe sections.
• Oil tank disposal: The tank is transported to a state-licensed salvage facility for proper disposal.

Most basement removals take just two to four hours, depending on access and complexity. If you’re looking for how to get rid of a basement oil tank, all you need to do is contact a trusted tank removal company like Superior.

Contact Superior for Basement Oil Tank Removal

With decades of experience and service across Pennsylvania and New Jersey, Superior Tank & Energy is your trusted source for basement oil tank removal. Whether you’re preparing to sell your home, renovating your basement, or proactively addressing a potential risk, our expert team is ready to help.

We proudly serve homeowners in the following areas:

Pennsylvania:

• Bucks County
• Berks County
• Delaware County
• Chester County
• Lehigh County
• Montgomery County
• Philadelphia

New Jersey:

• Burlington County
• Camden County
• Gloucester County
• Hunterdon County
• Mercer County
• Monmouth County
• Ocean County

Our trained crews will complete your job quickly and cleanly. We handle everything in-house, which means we can complete the job quickly and efficiently. If you’re ready to remove your old basement tank, contact Superior Tank & Energy today.

Frequently Asked Questions About Basement Oil Tank Removal

How long does it take to remove a basement oil tank?

Most basement oil tank removals take between two and four hours, depending on tank size, access points, and whether cutting the tank is required for removal.

Can I just leave my old oil tank in the basement?

While not necessarily illegal, leaving an unused oil tank in place can lead to corrosion, leaks, and complications if you’re trying to sell your home. Removal is generally recommended for safety, insurance, and resale reasons.

Is basement oil tank removal messy?

No, basement oil tank removal isn’t messy when it’s done by professionals. Superior Tank & Energy uses protective measures and follows strict safety procedures to ensure a clean, damage-free removal process.