Oil Tank Removal Cost Guide
Understand what to expect when budgeting for oil tank removal, testing, and potential remediation.
Updated for 2024
Quick Cost Summary
Tank Sweep
$200-$500
Standard Removal
$1,500-$3,500
With Remediation
$10,000-$50,000+
Detailed Cost Breakdown
| Service | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Tank Sweep / Detection | $200 | $500 |
| Above-Ground Tank Removal | $500 | $1,500 |
| Underground Tank Removal (275-550 gal) | $1,500 | $3,000 |
| Underground Tank Removal (1000+ gal) | $3,000 | $5,000 |
| Soil Testing (per sample) | $100 | $300 |
| Tank Abandonment-in-Place | $1,000 | $2,500 |
| Permits & Documentation | $200 | $500 |
| Minor Soil Remediation | $5,000 | $15,000 |
| Major Soil Remediation | $15,000 | $50,000 |
| Groundwater Remediation | $50,000 | $150,000 |
* Prices are estimates and vary by location and contractor. Always get multiple quotes.
Factors That Affect Your Cost
Tank Size & Type
Larger tanks cost more to remove. Steel tanks are standard; fiberglass or concrete tanks may require special handling.
Tank Location
Tanks under driveways, patios, or close to structures cost more due to difficult access and surface restoration.
Soil Conditions
Rocky soil, high water tables, or clay content can significantly increase excavation time and costs.
Contamination Level
Clean tanks are straightforward. Leaking tanks require soil testing and potentially expensive remediation.
Local Regulations
Some states have stricter requirements for testing, disposal, and documentation, affecting overall costs.
Geographic Location
Prices vary by region. Northeast states typically have higher costs due to older housing stock and strict regulations.
Real-World Cost Examples
Best Case: Clean Tank Removal
550-gallon tank in accessible backyard, no contamination found.
- • Tank removal & disposal: $2,000
- • Soil testing (2 samples): $400
- • Permits: $250
- • Backfill & restoration: $350
Total: ~$3,000
Moderate Case: Minor Contamination
Tank under driveway with localized soil contamination.
- • Tank removal (difficult access): $3,500
- • Extended soil testing: $800
- • Soil remediation (20 tons): $8,000
- • Permits & documentation: $500
- • Driveway restoration: $2,500
Total: ~$15,300
Worst Case: Extensive Contamination
Long-term leak affecting large soil area, approaching property line.
- • Tank removal: $3,000
- • Environmental assessment: $3,000
- • Major soil remediation (200+ tons): $45,000
- • Ongoing monitoring: $5,000
- • Legal/regulatory compliance: $2,000
Total: ~$58,000+
💡 Money-Saving Tips
- ✓Get multiple quotes - Prices can vary significantly between contractors.
- ✓Ask about package pricing - Some contractors offer discounts for sweep + removal together.
- ✓Check for state programs - Some states offer financial assistance for residential tank removal.
- ✓Review your insurance - Pollution liability coverage may help with unexpected costs.
- ✓Act quickly if you find a leak - Contamination spreads over time, increasing remediation costs.
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