Oil Tank

Just looked at a house in Brooklyn that has an old oil tank in the basement.  The owner has already converted the house to gas heating but did not remove the oil tank.  He encased it in dry wall with 2 doors for access, much like a closet.  The house does not have a C of O since it was built prior to 1938\.  The fact that he built a tiny closet for the oil tank as if he was hiding something seems very shady to me.  Are there any potential issues with purchasing this property?  Will I need a C of O to remove the oil tank?  Thank you very much for your help.

zucchini88

in Heating 12 years and 11 months ago

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ellenlourie | 12 years and 11 months ago

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This boiler was either converted illegally or permit never been closed. For oil to gas conversion plumber of record must submit affidafit to fire department that oil tank was removed., if tank is 275 gallons, if it is bigger tank, than oil burner installer must submit letter, that oil tank was removed or legally abandonned in place.

nyc_sport | 12 years and 11 months ago

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What is the egress like? I once looked at a house that from the looks of it left the tank in the basement because it would need to be cut into pieces to get it out. The tank likely has sludge in the bottom, that also will need to be disposed of.

timber | 12 years and 11 months ago

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I’ve seen several houses that have been converted to gas but the old oil tank remains in the cellar.

zucchini88 | 12 years and 11 months ago

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Would the DOB website for the property list permits filed for new boilers?

jockdeboeraia | 12 years and 11 months ago

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No, but a plumber should have pulled a permit for the conversion. Just call a oil delivery company to have them remove the tank. If there is oil in in and it is good they will pay you for it.