Spring was slow arriving but now it’s a good time to inspect your oil tank - Safety tips for homeowners to prevent dangerous and costly spills

“Homeowners with oil tanks need to be diligent in having their tanks inspected regularly and ensure their proper maintenance,” said Amanda Dean, Vice President, Atlantic.  “Oil spills can be expensive and difficult to clean up and can have a devastating impact on families.  If you have a tank, ask your insurance professional for more information on your home insurance coverage.”

There are over 1.1 million households using oil for heat in Canada every year. If there is a spill or leak of oil from your property, you could be entirely responsible for all these costs. No one needs this expense or hassle; this is why it is even more critical to be aware of the condition of your tank and to ensure its proper maintenance. 

IBC has the following tips for homeowners with oil tanks:​

Here are some considerations that homeowners should take into account when making decisions about how best to protect their property. Homeowners should always consult licensed maintenance and service professionals to ensure that the selection and maintenance of their oil tank complies with the applicable provincial oil tank standards and building code requirements.

Buying a new domestic oil tank:​

• ​When buying a new tank, ask your supplier about the many different oil tanks on the market and what is known about their comparative performance.
• Ensure your tank is certified and meets your insurers' minimum requirement.
• Ensure the installation of your tank is done by a qualified professional and meets your provincial building code and/or regulations.
• Avoid in-ground installation of oil tanks as many insurers will not insure a home with an in-ground tank.
• Have a release barrier (drip tray) to help contain any leakage.
• Never buy a used tank. It’s almost impossible to know what you’re getting.
• Never transfer oil from your old tank into your new tank.

Maintenance:

• ​Have your oil tank inspected regularly by a licenced heating service professional.You may want to hire a certified technician to carry out annual examinations. Also,tanks should undergo more comprehensive inspections at least every 3 to 5 years, depending on whether the location of the tanks is indoors or outdoors.
• Tanks exposed to the elements have a shorter life span. If possible, have your tank installed indoors or sheltered from the elements.
• Contact a heating service professional if there is moisture on the tank or if there is an odor of oil.
• Tank maintenance is your responsibility.
• Conduct regular visual inspections of your tank. Look for signs of corrosion like rust lines and pit holes.
• To prevent bacteria from growing in your tank, avoid letting the tank empty during off-season.
• If you’re uncertain about the age or condition of your tank, call your fuel distributor to do a visual inspection.
• Ensure your fuel oil distributor is inspecting your tank when oil deliveries are made. Ask your supplier if this is part of the delivery service.
• Supervise the filling of the oil tank to reduce the chances of a spill.
• Know the expected life span of your tank. Some provinces have regulations dictating when your tank must be replaced.
• If you own a metal tank, speak with your insurance representative about any stipulations in your home insurance policy regarding its replacement.

If you discontinue oil heat, you should:​

• ​Have an oil technician come for proper removal of the tank;
• Ensure the filler pipe is sealed or welded closed and advise your supplier; and
• Contact your local authority to ensure you comply with all the requirements for proper tank removal.

Domestic Oil Tanks and Your Home Insurance Policy

For more information on oil tanks and your home insurance policy click here: http://www.ibc.ca/en/in_the_community/loss_prevention_tips/oil_spills.asp/