In this Tank TV case study, Simple Tank Services explains why a low preliminary soil sample does not always tell the full story around an underground oil tank.
Project Overview
- Location: New Jersey
- Services: Oil tank removal, soil evaluation, and site inspection
- Episode Focus: False Negative Soil Sample Result
- Contractor: Simple Tank Services
What Happened on This Project
The client had a prior soil sample showing a low level of petroleum contamination around an existing underground oil tank. Because the reading was low, we explained that the condition might be limited and that the actual site conditions would become clearer once the tank was removed.
During the project, we also discovered that one suspected underground tank was actually a previously filled septic tank. The sand-filled oil tank and surrounding soil were ultimately found to be clean, and the project passed inspection without requiring NJDEP involvement.
Why This Matters for New Jersey Homeowners
Preliminary soil samples can be useful, but they need to be interpreted in context. Tank location, sampling depth, fill material, and what is actually encountered during excavation all matter when determining whether a release is present.
Related Simple Tank Services
Need Help Interpreting Oil Tank Soil Test Results?
Call Simple Tank Services at 732-965-8265. We can help evaluate soil testing, remove underground tanks, and explain the next steps based on actual site conditions.
Watch more real New Jersey projects on Tank TV to see how Simple Tank Services handles oil tank and environmental work in the field.