When Does an Oil Tank Need to Come Out?
Most domestic oil tanks last somewhere between 20 and 30 years, though plenty fail earlier depending on the material, installation quality, and how well they've been looked after. Steel tanks tend to corrode from the inside out, which means you often won't see the damage until there's already a problem. Plastic tanks can crack, warp, or become structurally compromised over time.
There are some clear warning signs. Visible rust, surface corrosion, or wet patches around the base of the tank are obvious ones. A persistent smell of oil in your garden or near the tank is another. So is a sudden unexplained drop in your fuel levels. If your tank is sitting on a deteriorating base, or was installed before current regulations came in, that's worth investigating too.
Waiting until there's a leak isn't just a hassle — an oil spill on your property can cost thousands to remediate, and in some cases you're legally liable for any contamination that spreads beyond your boundary.