If you live in New Jersey and your home has an underground or aboveground oil tank, there may come a time when it needs to be removed or properly closed. Tanks installed decades ago can rust and leak, creating environmental damage and legal issues. Whether you’re preparing to sell your home, switching heating systems, or responding to a notice from your township, it’s important to understand your responsibilities and your options.
Long Hill Contracting provides licensed oil tank removal and environmental remediation across Hunterdon, Somerset, and Mercer Counties. We handle the entire process from permits to final inspections.
Is Oil Tank Removal Required by New Jersey Law?
Yes, New Jersey has strict regulations for both underground and aboveground heating oil tanks. If your tank is no longer in use, it must be either removed or properly abandoned with permits and inspections.
Many towns in Central New Jersey require documentation to prove the work was done correctly, especially during property sales. Buyers often request records to avoid future liability.
Why Abandoned or Buried Oil Tanks Can Be a Serious Problem in New Jersey
Many homes built before the 1980s used oil heat, which meant installing metal tanks to store heating fuel. Over time, those tanks corrode, especially underground, leading to leaks that contaminate soil and groundwater.
An unused oil tank on your property isn't simply a potential hazard. It can also delay a home sale, impact property value, and, if it leaks, result in cleanup orders from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP).
What New Jersey Law Says About Oil Tank Removal
New Jersey requires homeowners to either remove unused tanks or properly abandon them. Here’s the difference:
- Removal involves excavating and completely removing the tank from the property.
- Abandonment in place means the tank stays underground, but it's emptied, cleaned, and filled with an inert material like sand or foam.
Either option requires a permit from your local town and must follow NJDEP guidelines. Long Hill Contracting handles both methods, depending on what makes the most sense for your property.
See how we manage the full process on our Oil Tank Removal & Environmental Remediation page.
What If My Oil Tank Leaked?
If your oil tank is leaking, New Jersey law requires you to report it to the NJDEP within 15 minutes of discovery. You’ll also need to hire a certified contractor to assess the damage, remove contaminated soil, and document the cleanup.
At Long Hill Contracting, we’re licensed to perform both oil tank removal and environmental remediation which means you won’t need to hire multiple companies. We help you navigate state reporting requirements, complete all testing, and submit documentation. If eligible, we’ll also help you apply for a No Further Action (NFA) letter through the NJDEP.
What to Expect During the Oil Tank Removal Process
If you’re removing or decommissioning a tank in a town like Hillsborough, Flemington, Bridgewater, or Clinton, here’s how it typically works:
- Site inspection: Our team locates and assesses the tank
- Permit filing: We handle the paperwork with your township
- Tank removal or abandonment: Performed by certified professionals
- Soil testing: Only required if there are signs of contamination
- Final inspection: A township inspector signs off the work
- Documentation: You receive formal paperwork to keep or show future buyers
Each township may have slightly different requirements. Since Long Hill Contracting works directly with municipal offices throughout Central NJ, we manage those variations for you.
Signs Your Oil Tank Might Be a Problem
Wondering whether your oil tank needs attention? These are common red flags that something may be wrong:
- You notice an oil smell in your basement, garage, or yard
- Your grass looks dead or discolored in one specific patch, especially above a buried tank
- There are stains or rust on or around an aboveground tank
- You’ve had a spike in heating oil usage without any change in your habits
- The tank is decades old and hasn’t been inspected or used recently
- You see wet spots or pooling near the tank, even during dry weather
If you see any of these signs, don’t wait. A leaking tank can lead to expensive remediation and state reporting requirements. Long Hill Contracting can inspect the site, verify the issue, and walk you through the next steps with no pressure.
Homeowner Checklist: When to Call Long Hill Contracting
- You’re planning to sell a home with an old or unused oil tank
- You’re not sure where your oil tank is or what condition it’s in
- Your township has requested proof of proper closure
- You’ve noticed signs of a potential leak
- You want to get ahead of future issues by addressing them now
We serve homeowners across New Jersey throughout Hunterdon, Somerset, and Mercer counties.
Why Choose Long Hill Contracting?
We’re a family-owned company based in Hillsborough with over 20 years of experience. Our team is NJDEP-certified and specializes in oil tank removal, excavation, grading, and drainage. We work closely with local inspectors and understand each township’s unique requirements.
What you can expect:
- Fast turnaround times
- Clear pricing with no surprises
- Proper permits and documentation
- Licensed environmental remediation if needed
- Respectful cleanup of your property
With Long Hill Contracting, you’ll get peace of mind and a clear path forward.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my tank is leaking?
Common signs include an unexplained spike in oil usage, dead grass near the tank, or oil smells inside your home. If you suspect a problem, contact a professional immediately.
Do I need to be home during the removal?
In most cases, no. We’ll let you know if access inside your home is needed, especially for above ground systems.
Can you help with tank removal if I'm selling my house?
Yes. We regularly work with realtors, buyers, and sellers to ensure proper documentation is in place before closing.
Schedule Your Site Visit
You don’t have to guess whether your tank is a risk. Our licensed crew will inspect your property, explain your options, and handle the full process from permit to paperwork.
Call (908) 500-5353 or request an appointment online.