FAQ

ANY QUESTIONS

Frequently Asked Questions

NJDEP UHOT (Unregulated Heating Oil Tank) compliance refers to adherence to the regulations set by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection for managing heating oil tanks. It’s crucial because it helps prevent soil and groundwater contamination due to heating oil leaks, ensuring the protection of the environment and property owners’ interests.

If a leak is discovered or if holes are identified during the township inspection, we follow a structured process to address the situation promptly. Firstly, we initiate the necessary steps by providing an NJDEP case number. Our initial action involves an NJDEP certified subsurface evaluator collecting soil samples to determine whether contamination exceeds the NJDEP criteria of 1,000 mg/Kg. If the samples indicate that contamination is not above the NJDEP criteria, we proceed by submitting a Remedial Action Report (RAR) to the NJDEP. This report outlines the details of the tank removal and the outcome of the sample collection, ensuring compliance and transparency.

However, if the samples do indicate contamination above the NJDEP criteria, we initiate site remediation. This comprehensive process involves the removal and responsible disposal of contaminated soil, followed by additional sample collection. This iterative approach continues until the contamination levels are reduced below the NJDEP criteria, ensuring that the property meets environmental standards.

A Phase I ESA is conducted to assess the environmental condition of a property before real estate transactions or development activities. It helps identify potential environmental risks, compliance issues, and contamination that may impact property value and future use.

While not always legally required, many lenders and responsible property buyers insist on a Phase I ESA to mitigate potential risks. It’s a valuable due diligence tool to ensure informed decision-making.

A Phase II ESA is typically conducted when the Phase I ESA identifies potential environmental concerns. It involves more in-depth investigation, including soil and groundwater sampling, to confirm the presence and extent of contamination.

If contamination is confirmed, our experts will work with you to develop a remediation plan to address the issue. This plan will outline the necessary steps to clean up the site and comply with environmental regulations.

Typical residential oil tank removals cost between $1,400 and $2,500. However, factors such as limited equipment access, depth of the tank, or proximity to structures may increase the total cost.
Yes, local construction permits are typically required prior to removal. The contractor usually handles the permitting process.
Most removals are completed in one day. If further investigation or remediation is needed, additional time may be required.
Retain all permits, inspection results, soil sample reports, and the final closure documentation. These may be requested during a property sale.
In most cases, NJDEP recommends full removal. Abandonment in place is allowed only under certain conditions and may complicate future transactions.

If a leak is discovered but soil sample results are below NJDEP cleanup criteria, the case can often be closed without soil removal. This requires:
• NJDEP sampling and analysis
• A Remedial Action Report (RAR)
• Submission of a $400 state review fee
Industry costs for this process typically range between $3,000 and $4,500.

When contamination exceeds NJDEP limits, soil must be excavated and properly disposed of. From Remedi Tec’s experience about 75% of cases are resolved with one to two truckloads (25–50 tons) of impacted soil. These jobs typically cost between $9,000 and $12,500, depending on volume, disposal fees, and site logistics.
Yes. In rare situations involving groundwater contamination, structural limitations, or wide-spread impacts, costs can reach well into the hundreds of thousands of dollars. These cases often require long-term oversight by a Licensed Site Remediation Professional (LSRP).
The Unregulated Heating Oil Tank (UHOT) Program allows certified professionals to remediate leaking residential and small commercial heating oil tanks without full NJDEP case oversight. Once cleanup is complete and approved, a No Further Action (NFA) letter is issued by the NJDEP.
Remediation under the NJDEP Unregulated Heating Oil Tank (UHOT) Program can be overseen by either a Subsurface Evaluator (SSE) or a Licensed Site Remediation Professional (LSRP). Residential and small commercial tanks are typically handled by SSEs, while LSRP oversight is generally required for regulated tanks, commercial/industrial sites, and cases involving groundwater contamination or complex subsurface conditions.