Some purchasers do not want to take any chances with an underground fuel tank. For these people there may be two options. The first option is to require that an above ground tank be installed in the basement. The second option is to require a changeover to natural gas, if gas service is available. Under either option, the old underground tank must be properly closed.
Proper closure is viewed by many as soundest option.
Closure eliminates the risk of future, potentially costly releases. Depending on tank size, closure often requires submission of a closure plan to the local regulatory agency and implementation of that plan following approval. Any contamination encountered during the tank removal must be addressed in a manner consistent with applicable law. State and county officials may also be involved in the tank closure process, depending on your applicable laws. If leaks have occurred, a cleanup may be required.