Phoenix Consulting

Homeowners

What can Phoenix Consulting do for you as a homeowner?

We work directly with you, insurance companies, tank removal contractors, and the regulatory programs (e.g. the NJDEP). We will help you sort through the paperwork, provide direction and recommendations for the various moving parts, gather information and data that is required for case closure at the State level, and keep you informed throughout the process. In short, we strive to make a complicated process easier for you!

FAQ #1How can I proactively remove my tank?

Some homeowners have their underground fuel oil tanks removed as a preventative measure in anticipation of the sale of their home or because they have converted their heating system to natural gas or another fuel source. The first step is to choose a contractor to remove your tank. 

Need a tank removal quote?  We have long-term relationships with qualified contractors and can recommend a vetted vendor in your area.  Call us for recommendations. 

FAQ #2A leak was identified during my tank removal, what is the next step?

Step 1: Report the leak to your State environmental department (Note: this step may also be completed by the tank removal contractor).

New Jersey: Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) at 1-877-WARNDEP (877-927-6337).  The NJDEP will issue an incident number and send a letter notifying the responsible party of the incident number and post-remediation requirements.  No payments or report submittals are due until the cleanup is complete.

New York: State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) at 800-457-7362.  A spill number will be assigned to the reported incident. 

Connecticut: Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (CTDEEP) at 866-DEP-SPIL (866-337-7745).  A spill number will be assigned to the reported incident.

Pennsylvania: Department of Environmental Protection (PADEP) at 484-250-5900.  An efacts number may be assigned to the reported incident. 

Step 2:  Contact your homeowner’s insurance provider and notify them about the oil release.

Step 3:  If applicable, report the leak to your tank insurance provider in addition to your home insurer.  This claim may be active if coverage was provided for the tank removal.   

FAQ #3How complicated is my cleanup?

Residential fuel oil cleanups can range in size and scope from a simple removal and sampling to confirm compliance with applicable soil and groundwater criteria to an involved remediation where corrective action is necessary to reduce oil contamination in the soil and groundwater to acceptable levels.  As your environmental consultant, Phoenix can determine the extent of the cleanup and provide direction no matter how severe. Click on the links below to view photos of cleanup scenarios.
·        Simple Tank Pull
·        Soil remediation only via excavation
·        Soil and groundwater remediation via excavation and water recovery operations
·        Soil and groundwater remediation under a dwelling via excavation
·        While excavation is the common remedial approach because of its reliability and quicker timeframe, in-ground treatment using chemical, biological and physical methods may be feasible. 

Did you know?

  • Did you know a tank insurance policy may pay for tank removal expenses and some or all of the cleanup costs for an oil leak? If you have or had insurance, contact the provider for further information.
  • Did you know that some homeowner’s insurance providers may cover remediation expenses under third-party liability? Common triggers for this coverage are an impact to on-site groundwater and/or off-site impacts to soil and/or groundwater.
  • Did you know that some states have funding programs available when insurance coverage is unavailable?
    Click your state for more information:
  • Did you know a tank removal can be completed generally in one day? Click to see tank removal photos.
  • Did you know a site investigation can be conducted to determine if insurance coverage may apply or if further work is necessary? An investigation can be completed in as little as one day with minimal to no disturbance to the property.  Click to see site investigation photos
  • Did you know that properties with cleanups covered by homeowner’s insurance are typically restored to like-kind condition following the remediation? While excavation can be invasive and cause disturbances to your yard, coverage may be available to restore the affected items (i.e. landscaping, interior and exterior masonry objects and surfaces, asphalt driveways, reconstruction of demolished structures, etc.).  Refer to before and after restoration photos. Although insurance coverage varies, non-covered costs can be determined before remediation, enabling scope modifications to reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
  • Did you know Phoenix provides real estate due diligence services such as underground tank searches, sampling to evaluate the soil and groundwater quality and aboveground tank integrity inspections? View AST Inspection Letter Report >

Let's discuss how we can help you!