Underground Oil Tanks

[Suzanne Prieur]

My inspector discovered an underground oil tank on the property I wanted to purchase. I called the State (Florida) to ask their opinion of how to handle the issue. I was told that there is nothing in Fl. law that prohibits these tanks, but any leakage violates state & federal health statutes. They strongly recommended removing the tank so that the soil could be tested & cleaned if necessary.

The agent for the seller refused to consider this & my agent considered it overkill. I walked from the deal & from my agent. This soil contamination is not likely to be covered by insurance. 

It's a huge potential liability.