Selling a Home in NY? Address That Old Oil Tank First

If you're a homeowner in Westchester, Putnam, or Dutchess County—especially in areas like Mahopac, Somers, Bedford, Chappaqua, or Hopewell Junction—now is the time to check if your property has an aging underground steel heating oil tank. If you’re planning to sell your home in any of these regions, dealing with that old tank could be the key to closing the deal smoothly and protecting your investment.

The Risks of Aging Underground Heating Oil Tanks

Underground steel heating oil tanks were commonly installed decades ago across towns like the Town of Carmel, Putnam Valley, and the Village of Scarsdale. But as these tanks age—especially past 20-30 years—they're prone to corrosion and leaks. A leaking underground storage tank (UST) is not only a hazard to your property’s soil and groundwater, but it can also lead to expensive environmental cleanup costs.

If your home is located in the Village of Croton-on-Hudson, Mount Kisco, or the Town of Cortlandt, this is particularly relevant, as many of these areas have older homes where underground oil tanks may still be in use.

And if your homeowner’s insurance policy includes a “pollution exclusion” clause, you could be solely responsible for remediation costs—often tens of thousands of dollars.

Real Estate Reality in the Hudson Valley & Westchester Region

Buyers and lenders alike are increasingly cautious when it comes to properties with underground oil tanks. In popular homebuying areas like the City of New Rochelle, Town of Eastchester, Town of Mamaroneck, and the Village of Larchmont, mortgage lenders may refuse to finance homes with unaddressed underground tanks. Even if the tank hasn’t leaked yet, the liability is too risky for many buyers to take on.

Buyers looking in desirable neighborhoods such as the Village of Pleasantville, Village of Tuckahoe, or the Village of Ossining are becoming more aware of these risks. Don’t let an old, buried tank jeopardize a sale or lower your home’s value.

Why You Should Act Now—Before You List

Whether you're in Scarsdale, New Castle, or Rye, being proactive can make a major difference. Hiring an OSHA-trained, environmentally certified contractor to remove your old tank and replace it with a modern above-ground system is a smart move—especially before listing your home.

Removing your old UST can:

• Make your property more attractive to buyers

• Speed up the sale process with fewer lender concerns

• Help you avoid legal and environmental liabilities

• Protect the groundwater and environment in your community

Local Homeowners: Don't Wait for a Problem

If you're selling your home in Greenburgh, Hopewell Junction, or anywhere in the Hudson Valley, the time to act is before a leak or failed inspection throws your home sale off track. Even if you don’t plan to sell immediately, removing an outdated underground oil tank now will give you peace of mind and protect your home’s value.

Disclaimer:

The information provided in this post is for general informational purposes only and reflects commonly encountered issues related to underground oil tanks in the State of New York. It is not intended to be legal, environmental, or real estate advice. Rules and regulations can vary by municipality, and each property may present unique circumstances. Homeowners and buyers are strongly encouraged to consult with qualified professionals, including environmental specialists, licensed contractors, real estate agents, and attorneys to evaluate their specific situation and ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations.