When should an oil tank be neutralized?

When should an oil tank be neutralized?

Oil tank maintenance and management are often relegated to the background... until a problem arises. And yet,inerting or neutralizing a fuel oil tank is a crucial step in the life of any tank, whether above or below ground. But in concrete terms: when should a tank be neutralized? And why is it so important?

Why is a tank neutralized or inerted?

Over time, oil tanks can become major environmental hazards: leaks, corrosion, soil contamination, even legal obligations. Inerting means putting the tank out of action, by emptying it , cleaning it and filling it with inert material (sand, foam or other).

This process ensures the safety of our facilities and prevents future pollution.

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🔎 When should you neutralize your oil tank?

Here are some concrete cases where neutralization is essential:

1. When the tank is no longer in use

If you've switched to natural gas, a heat pump or any other heating system, the law is clear: an unused tank must be neutralized or removed. And why? Because an empty tank, even if it's no longer active, can still contain polluting residues.

2. When selling a property

When selling, a non-neutralized tank can be a hindrance. Notaries often require proof of neutralization or removal. Don't take the risk of slowing down or cancelling a transaction.

📌 Tip: Anticipating neutralization can become a selling point. It proves that your property is maintained and compliant with environmental standards.

3. If the tank is damaged, leaking or obsolete

Even if it's still in use, a rusty, cracked or old tank (over 30 years old) represents a risk. In some cases, removal is mandatory. But when it is technically difficult to remove the tank (e.g., buried under a concrete slab), neutralization is the best alternative.

⚠️ What are the legal requirements?

The Brussels-Capital Region has strict regulations governing oil tanks. Any unused or dangerous installation must be neutralized or dismantled by an approved company.

XLG Industry supports you with :

• On-site situation analysis
• Pumping and cleaning the reservoir
• Injection of compliant inert material
• Issuance of an official certificate of neutralization

🛠️ Neutralization or removal: which is better?

Don't let your tank become a problem

Neutralizing an oil tank is more than an obligation: it's a responsible act, for the safety of your buildings and the preservation of the environment.

In doubt? An unused tank?
👉 Contact the experts at XLG Industry today for a free assessment.

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