Leaking Underground Storage Tank Services

A leaking underground storage tank (LUST) involves the release of a fuel product from an underground storage tank (UST) that can contaminate surrounding soil, groundwater, or surface waters. A leaking UST can also affect indoor air spaces. 

 

Early detection of an underground tank release is important. A timely detection of a release benefits a UST owner by reduced downtime and costs. Early detection of a leaking UST can also avoid holding up a future transaction of the property.

ECG can conduct a limited soil testing investigation to determine if a release has occurred. In Illinois, the tank owner has 45 days from the date of release to submit a report containing information about the site and the nature of the release.

 

Owners of state-registered leaking underground tanks are often eligible for the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency’s (IEPA) reimbursement program for leaking underground tank sites. The program includes reimbursement of environmental investigation and clean-up costs.

When petroleum concentrations in the soil and/or groundwater surrounding a leaking underground tank exceed the state- approved levels (corrective action objectives), in most cases owners want to obtain a No Further Remediation (NFR) Letter from the IEPA. The NFR letter signifies a release from further responsibilities in performing remedial action and is considered prima facie (clear) evidence that the site does not constitute a threat to human health or the environment. 

 

In many cases, property owners can obtain an NFR Letter without conducting actual remediation. For example, engineered barriers can be installed over the contaminated soils in order to prevent exposure. Engineered barriers include:

If you are concerned about a possible leaking underground tank, contact ECG at 800-282-2084.