Overview
What is an oil tank removal service?
An oil tank removal service involves taking away an oil tank that is no longer required. Oil tanks can be decommissioned and removed in several different ways, depending on why they are being removed and whether you plan on replacing them.
Why do oil tanks need to be removed?
Oil tanks may need to be removed for a variety of reasons, including:
- To protect the environment
- To protect yourself and your home
- To improve the efficiency of your heating system
- Old tanks can decrease the value of a property
- Unnecessary maintenance and repair costs from older oil tanks
How do I know when it’s time to remove my oil tank?
After having your oil tank for around 15-20 years, consider removing it and getting an upgrade. As tanks age, they start to deteriorate and lose efficiency, costing you lots of money and presenting the risk of leaking and harming the environment and those who live in the area.
Signs to look out for include:
- Visible corrosion and rust
- Dents, gouges, bulges, and other visible cosmetic damage
- Splits, cracks and other signs of leakages, such as oil on the ground
- Signs of water contamination
Oil Tank Removal Process
Assessment and Planning
An OFTEC Technician will survey the area, checking for leaks or contamination, before creating a plan for your removal.
Tank Emptying
All oil tanks must be emptied and cleaned thoroughly before they can be removed.
Tank Decommissioning
Oil tanks are decommissioned so they cannot be used again; this may involve cutting open the oil tank and cleaning it further. This process ensures a low risk of contamination.
Tank Removal
Depending on its location, digging to fully expose the whole tank may be necessary to properly and safely remove it. This avoids damaging the area, and will take place using machinery and cranes, so will require a lot of space.
Soil Testing
The area around and beneath the oil tank must be tested for any signs of contamination. If contamination is found, the level will be assessed to determine the best course of action.
Tank Disposal
The decommissioned and removed tank needs to be disposed of properly. It may get cut into smaller pieces and then transported to a licenced disposal facility or recycling centre.
The cost of removals in the UK
Domestic vs Commercial
Domestic oil tank removals and decommissioning typically cost around £600-£1200. This usually covers the initial survey, plan, decommissioning, dismantling, removal, and disposal.
Commercial oil tank removals can cost up to £6000; this price depends on the location of the tank, the size of the oil tank, and the material of the oil tank.
Why choose us?
We pride ourselves on ensuring that your property is left in a brilliant condition once we’ve completed the work, and we are fully insured to dispose of the oil tank in an environmentally and safe manner.
Whether your oil tank is outside in the garden or underground in a basement, our team have the experience to remove it with ease. We have seen it all and can offer some of the best oil tank removal prices in the East of England.
FAQ's
What happens to my oil tank after it's removed?
Once your oil tank has been removed, the technician will deconstruct it and prepare it for transport; sometimes, it is cut up into smaller pieces to make transportation and disposal easier. Your decommissioned oil tank is then taken to a licenced disposal facility or a recycling centre, as recommended by your local council. Once your old tank reaches the disposal facility, it will find new life as a metal or plastic component
Can I sell my old oil tank?
Yes, you can sell your old oil tank. You must declare its age, maintenance and inspection history and any damage it has. If your OFTEC technician recommends that it is not fit to be resold, then you should get it properly disposed of.
If your oil tank is in good condition and you are simply looking to update it for a different style, there are several places that buy second-hand oil tanks. These companies will also pick up your oil tank from your home, making the full removal and selling process very easy.
Can I remove and decommission an oil tank?
You should not try to remove and dispose of your oil tank yourself. Oil tank removals require careful planning and strict safety protocols set out by OFTEC. Attempting to remove and dispose of your oil tank yourself can cause environmental damage through leaks or spills from improperly drained and cleaned tanks. You could also cause damage to yourself or your property when trying to remove your tank, as professionals will use machinery such as cranes.
At Oil Tank Change, we encourage all oil tank owners to hire a professional, such as an OFTEC technician, to safely and efficiently remove your tank.
Why should I hire an OFTEC Technician to remove my oil tank?
Oil tank services must be carried out by a ‘competent person,’ a standard that was announced by the government in 2002. OFTEC’s registration scheme for heating technicians was the first to be formally recognised as a competent person scheme. Opting for an OFTEC Technician can provide you with a variety of benefits, including:
- Regular assessments of their quality of work.
- Strict compliance with building and safety standards.
- Essential re-certification every 5 years.
- Insurance and documentation are completed at every step.
- Overall, peace of mind using highly qualified technicians.
Industry Compliant
Every member of our team of experts complies with all current safety legislation set out by OFTEC.
Price Guarantee
We won’t be beaten on price. We are competitively priced and all our tanks have a 13-year warranty for your peace of mind.
Oil Tank Service
We have over 30 years of experience in oil tank installations, replacements, removals and annual inspections.
Emergencies
Oil tank emergency? Our experienced team of engineers are available to help 24/7
Get In Touch
If you have a question or would like some technical advice, contact a friendly member of our head office team.
If you’re experiencing an emergency, we’re available 24/7 for help.
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