But, home inspectors are not equal in terms of talent and capability. If you are going to rely on an inspector, use the services of one that is highly recommended by a disinterested person. One big concern during a due diligence investigation concerns the integrity of any underground storage tanks, including home heating tanks. Since underground storage tanks are buried, underground, and therefore not readily visible, experts are required to evaluate whether the tanks are leaking and otherwise meet current legal requirements. And leaking tanks are what home homeowner nightmares can be made of.
Underground tanks fail for a variety of reasons.
Rust inside a tank can result in pin holes that cause leaking. In addition, buried underground electric utility lines can cause an electrical condition underground that can result in tank holes. Special devices are now installed on many new tanks to guard against this kind of tank destruction. If you are considering purchasing a house with an underground oil tank, do not take anything for granted. You want to do what you can to ensure the tank has not leaked and is structurally sound.