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August 17, 2023

How To Locate Unused Oil Storage Tanks If They Are Buried Underground

If you live in BC, you know that the main source of energy for heating in the province is natural gas. However, back in the first half of the 21^st century, oil was used to heat homes. Since then, the province has become more environmentally conscious and not only are there regulations in place for the types of fuel we use, but there are also regulations when it comes to cleaning up remnants of old energy sources, namely oil tanks.

Unfortunately, many oil tanks remain in Vancouver and the Lower Mainland despite oil not being a commonly used fuel source for homes anymore. Back when the switch was made to natural gas in the 1960s, people no longer needed storage tanks for oil. The general public was not as environmentally conscious back then and did not know the extent to which oil can damage nature if it leaks so unused oil storage tanks were buried underground.

Nowadays we are aware that oil is a dangerous contaminant if it gets into soil. Not only can it damage plants and wildlife in the surrounding area, but humans can also be at risk if it gets into the waterway or soil where vegetation that is consumed is grown. This is why there are City Laws requiring that homeowners in Vancouver properly dispose of an oil tank if one is found located on the ground of their property. And if you want to sell your property, you must make sure that there is no oil tank buried on the grounds before you do so or you can be liable.

For many, this can confuse because most oil tanks have been disposed of underground so how does one go about locating buried oil tanks? Naturally, nobody wants to dig up their entire grounds trying to locate buried oil tanks. This is costly, messy and extremely time-consuming. And even if you were to locate one this way, you would be putting the surrounding environment at risk as you may be exposing it to further leaks if you strike the tank.

At West Cost Tank Removal, we use up-to-date infrared technology in locating buried oil tanks. This specialized equipment will scan the soil without having to uproot it. Should an oil tank be buried on your property, the infrared scanner will detect it and let us know exactly where it is.

We can also arrange the removal of the underground oil storage tank. As our team is composed of some of the best specialists in this field, we can do so in a manner that is safe and efficient and up to code with regulations. While the idea of an underground oil tank on your property can cause stress and confusion, the team at West Coast Tank Removal can take a load off your shoulders by locating buried oil tanks with ease using the most up-to-date technology.

This will allow you to make sure your property is up to code with local regulations, and it won’t be an issue if you wish to sell your property in the future. Reach out to our team today to learn more and set up an appointment for locating buried oil tanks on your property.