Recently, we received an email from an associate in the real estate industry.

“I have a client purchasing a home built in 1988. The sellers stated that the prior owner mentioned a tank was removed before they bought the house. They don’t know if it was oil or propane. I requested an OPRA report, but am waiting for it to come back. Is it even possible for a home built in 1988 to have had a buried tank? The home inspector also noted evidence of prior oil heat but stated that searching for hidden or removed tanks is outside the scope of their inspection.”

Our Response

Yes — it’s 100% possible and, in many cases, likely. Most likely, the tank was an underground oil tank, although propane is possible if natural gas wasn’t available at the time.  We’ve seen homes built as recently as the early 2000s that originally used oil heat.

After obtaining the property address, we determined that the home did have an underground storage tank (UST) removed, and it had leaked, resulting in an NJDEP case number.

The OPRA (Open Public Records Act) request provided minimal information — only that a 500-gallon UST was removed in June 2014. Many people expect an OPRA to include detailed reports or test results, but it rarely does.

A “glass-half-full” person might assume the tank didn’t leak.

An experienced environmental professional would say: “Show me the documentation proving the tank did not leak.”

The Investigation Continues

Upon further review, we discovered that Curren Environmental had actually performed the remediation work years prior. (With thousands of projects completed annually, not every address immediately rings a bell!)

Fortunately, we were able to provide the NJDEP No Further Action (NFA) letter needed for the real estate transaction.

The Problem

The seller had no knowledge of the NFA or that it even existed. They only knew a tank had been removed — and some believed it was propane.

This is a perfect example of why, in real estate, you must trust but verify. Always confirm that what’s presented is accurate and supported by documentation before relying on it.

A Less Happy Ending

Not all cases end this smoothly. In another instance, we performed a tank sweep for a buyer on a beautifully renovated home listed at a premium price.

Our geophysical scan didn’t find a tank — but it did reveal groundwater monitoring wells, which typically indicate a history of contamination.  Further research uncovered that the property once had an oil tank that leaked and was never closed out with the NJDEP.

The contamination had not been disclosed, and the sale fell through. One year later, the home still hadn’t sold and was being rented out. In this case, the seller — a flipper — had purchased and renovated the property without doing proper environmental due diligence, tying up significant capital in a contaminated property.

The Takeaway

Inspectors in New Jersey are not required to search for buried or removed tanks — but your clients rely on you for guidance.  Recommending a tank sweep or environmental history review can protect your client from costly surprises and protect your reputation as a trusted professional.

Even honest sellers may be unaware of past tank leaks or remediation.  The only way to uncover these issues is through Buyer Due Diligence — verifying records, performing scans, and reviewing NJDEP data.

Final Thought

When it comes to environmental concerns in real estate:  Trust, but verify.  Always do your due diligence.

Complete Guide For Homeowners: Why Underground Oil Tanks Are a Growing Concern

If you're buying or selling a home,  there's a good chance you've encountered the common oil tank question, "Was there an oil tank on this property?".  Oil tanks from the early 1900s through the 1980s were installed long before the EPA and State DEPs were established, meaning environmental regulations weren't part of the equation.

Today's reality? Any oil tank can leak, and cleanup costs fall squarely on the property owner at the time of removal.

The Hidden Risk of Oil Tank Leaks

Here's what most homeowners don't realize: many modern oil tanks come with just a three (3) year warranty. There are tanks with longer warranties for sure, but a ten year warranty on a 12 year old tank, is well out of warranty.  If your tank is older, it is likely well past its expected lifespan. Leaks typically occur along the bottom, where corrosion is worst, and exactly where you'd never notice them. A few drips here and there go completely undetected.

The Real Estate Reality Check

Trying to sell a house with an old oil tank? Buyers, their attorneys, and realtors all know the risks. We've seen sales fall through multiple times or homes sit on the market for six months or more before sellers accept that oil tanks are not selling features. Unlike walk-in closets and open floor plans, underground oil tanks often deter buyers from making an offer.

The Cheapest Quote Isn't Always the Best Deal

When it's time to remove your tank, it's tempting to go with the lowest bid. But here's the truth: the cheapest price often includes the worst service, and you'll end up paying more in the end 90% of the time.

Many budget contractors won't discuss potential issues because they don't want to "scare" you—and honestly, most homeowners don't want to hear it either. But this lack of preparation leads to expensive surprises.

What Every Oil Tank Removal Contract Must Include

1. Soil Sampling and Testing

Why Sampling & Testing matters. Just like cholesterol, you can't know contamination levels without testing.

Soil samples cost around $130  each (depending on the size of the tank, it could be 2-5 samples) and should always be included with tank removal. Getting samples while the equipment is already on-site is far cheaper than returning later, which can cost thousands. Testing is especially critical when a previously unknown tank is discovered during a tank sweep.

2. A Clear Plan for Tank Leaks

Let's be realistic: finding holes in a 20, 30, or 50-year-old tank isn't shocking. Your removal company should explain upfront what happens if your tank does or doesn't leak.

Important: If holes are found, your local construction office will flag the tank as a leak and require state reporting. A hole provides "reasonable cause" to believe the tank leaked, putting the burden on you to prove otherwise. 

3. Proper Testing If Contamination Is Found

You must test to determine if oil levels are above or below regulatory standards. Skip this step, and remediation will be assumed necessary.

When contamination requires cleanup, the next step is delineation, which is defining the contaminated area's boundaries. Smaller areas are faster and cheaper to address. Larger contaminated zones can extend across property lines or under structures, creating access challenges.

4. A Tank Closure Report

Every tank removal needs documentation. Commercial tanks legally require closure reports submitted to the state, and residential tanks should, too.

A proper closure report:

• Explains the work in plain language
• Documents whether the tank leaked
• Outlines whether remediation is needed (and why)

Having written proof that your removed tank didn't leak is invaluable for future property transactions.

Red Flag: What a Bad Contract Looks Like

Here's an actual scope of work from a company you should avoid:

• Obtain permit
• Call utility markout
• Excavate and expose the tank
• Remove overburden soil and concrete
• Saw cut and clean the tank
• Remove and dispose of the tank

What's missing? Soil sampling. Testing protocols. A closure report. Any mention of what happens if the tank leaks.

This contract assumes perfection and leaves you exposed to massive, unexpected costs.

How to Protect Yourself

The best time to read this is before your tank is removed. If you're planning:

• Choose a contractor who clearly explains all possible scenarios
• Ensure your contract includes soil sampling, testing, and a closure report
• Ask what happens if contamination is found
• Don't let price be your only deciding factor

Already Discovered a Leak?

If you've already had your tank removed and discovered contamination, professional delineation services can define the problem, develop accurate remediation costs, and provide data you can use to solicit competitive quotes.

The Bottom Line

Oil tank removal doesn't have to be a nightmare. Working with an experienced, transparent contractor who prepares you for all outcomes—and includes proper testing and documentation—protects both your property value and your peace of mind. For more information on buying a house with an underground oil tank click here. 

Hidden underground storage tanks pose serious environmental and financial risks to property owners. Whether you're buying a new property or suspect your current one may have undisclosed tanks, a professional tank sweep (also called a geophysical survey) is essential for locating these buried hazards before they become costly problems.

The Right Tool for the Job: Why GPR Beats Metal Detectors

When most people think about finding buried metal oil tanks, metal detectors seem like the obvious choice. However, this assumption can lead to missed oil tanks and false readings. Here's why:

The Metal Detector Problem: Underground environments contain countless metal objects—nails, pipes, rebar, natural iron deposits, and decades of buried debris. A metal detector will signal on all of these, creating a confusing maze of false positives that obscures actual tank locations as well as leads to exploratory digs. 

The GPR Advantage: Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) works differently. Instead of detecting metal, GPR sends electromagnetic pulses into the ground. When these signals encounter any solid mass—whether it's a tank, void space, or density change—they bounce back to the surface unit. This creates a detailed subsurface image that trained technicians can interpret to identify tank-like anomalies while filtering out irrelevant metal debris.

Experience Makes the Difference

Having sophisticated equipment is only half the equation. The success of any oil tank sweep depends heavily on the technician's experience and knowledge.

Why Oil Tank Removal Experience Matters: At Curren, our technicians don't just operate scanning equipment—they've actually removed oil tanks from the ground. This hands-on experience with various installation methods, depths, orientations, and tank types provides crucial context that pure equipment operators lack.

No Standard Installation: Petroleum tanks were installed in countless ways over the decades. Some are horizontal, others vertical. Installation depths vary wildly. Some tanks were professionally installed while others were DIY projects with unique configurations. Only technicians who have encountered these variations in real removal projects can accurately interpret scanning data.

When Equipment Isn't Enough: A Real-World Case Study

Recently, Curren performed an oil tank sweep using over $50,000 worth of advanced scanning equipment. The sophisticated GPR and other instruments detected no subsurface anomalies that would indicate a buried tank.

However, our experienced technician observed multiple on-site clues pointing to historical oil heat usage. Combined with pre-survey historical research suggesting oil heating, the technician suspected a tank remained on the property despite the equipment readings.

The key insight? The technician determined the most likely tank location was beneath a building addition—an area physically inaccessible to our scanning equipment.

The Outcome: Months later, the property owner contacted us after removing interior flooring and discovering the leaked tank exactly where our technician suspected—buried beneath the addition, where no scanning equipment could reach.

The Bottom Line

This case perfectly illustrates why professional oil tank sweeps require both cutting-edge equipment and experienced interpretation. While GPR technology provides the best available subsurface imaging, it takes a seasoned professional to:

• Recognize site clues that equipment might miss
• Understand historical installation patterns
• Identify areas where physical access limitations affect survey results
• Correlate multiple data sources (equipment readings, visual clues, historical research)

When it comes to protecting your property investment from underground storage tank risks, don't settle for equipment alone—choose professionals with the experience to interpret what they find and, just as importantly, what they can't access.

• Curren was unable to scan under the addition. Based on the location of noted historical oil usage,  it is suspected that a heating oil UST is present under the addition.

I am confident most companies would have missed the oil tank.  I say this because in the same week we dug up a pile of stone that a company said was an oil tank, the stone did have a Metallic signature, it just was not a tank. 

Environmental Questions?

Call the Experts

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Government environmental agencies consider removing a storage tank as remediation, because storage tanks are known to rust and leak petroleum, which can contaminate soil and groundwater.    Know that the government views storage tanks as an environmental liability.  In real estate transactions, attorneys, buyers, mortgage companies, and insurance companies also view tanks as a liability and want them removed.   Many tanks can be readily removed and tested, but some tanks require an excessive amount of effort to remove, which can exponentially increase the cost.  In these situations, tanks can be closed in place, with testing, as testing will confirm whether the tank did or did not leak.  Now we deal with parties that have their own opinion regarding what is or is not possible.  Curren is licensed in three states for tank work and has completed tens of thousands of tank closures. We are experienced in what is feasible and budget-friendly for clients.

Take this crawlspace tank.  It looks like an AST, but the federal definition says it's a UST as more than 10% of the tank volume is buried below the ground.   The client said it could not be removed, Curren said it was cheaper to remove than filling the tank in place.

Filling the tank in place would have taken more labor which would have cost more.  You can see how the area looks after removal, the concave area of the tank grave.

Cutting the tank into manageable pieces allowed the tank to be removed from the space.

This project is in contrast to the next property, where a tank had a sunroom built on top of the tank.  I am sure that when this was done, the owners never thought the buried tank would be an issue.

• The subject 1000 gallon tank is right through the sliding glass doors. 
• The tank is 1000 gallons and is about 11' long. 
•  The top of the tank is 3' deep.   
• You would have to support the sunroom to remove the tank, which does not make financial sense.

The fill pipe is pretty far from the door to the room, further complicating matters.

84" inches deep

48" diameter tank

84 - 48 = 36"   or 3' deep.

For this tank, removal could be done with some engineering, but it would cost significantly more than simple cleaning, testing, and filling the tank in place.  Of course, you could also demolish the sunroom and remove the tank, but that would also cost more, and you would lose a sunroom.

In this circumstance, you cut an area of the floor out, hand dig to the tank top, 3' deep, enter and clean the tank, cut coupons, holes in the bottom of the tank, and acquire soil samples for laboratory analysis, backfill, and restore the floor.  Everything is documented in a report.

Expert Tank Advice 888-301-1050

The term "mold" correlates to fungi (although not all fungi form molds, some form mushrooms), and mold is often called mildew (because "mildew" sounds better than "mold"). No matter what you call it, finding mold during a real estate transaction is a negative. How you manage mold can have a huge impact on the real estate transaction.

To be clear, mold is a known indoor air contaminant and a health hazard, underscoring a bigger issue: a water issue that can be destructive to building materials.

The health concern can give an out to a buyer, as the home can be viewed as uninhabitable. A failed sale also red ones the property as having some issue that caused it to fall out of contract. Relisting the property means disclosing the mold growth and any other defect noted from the buyers’ inspection.

Those are some of the negatives, so let’s flip the coin to the positive side. Finding mold means confronting it head-on.   Determining cause (Was it fixed? Is it defined?), fixing the mold (remediating to whatever extent necessary to bring the indoor environment to a normal fungal ecology), and lasting documenting these facts to the buyer. In short, you are defining and addressing, for lack of a better term, the cancer.   Fixing the issues solves the issue. I can freely say that after 30-some years of environmental consulting, I have never said Do Not Buy that property because of mold.

So, how do you manage mold in a real estate transaction?

When mold is found or suspected, assess what you know at that point.

1          Do you know the cause?

2          Do you know the source?

3          If you do not know 1 & 2, you do not know the cost to address.

If you can't answer 1 through 4, you need to take steps to answer the questions.   Understand if an inspector notes mold in an attic, unless it was a paid inspection, you will not have the data to answer these questions.

This utility room houses HVAC equipment, a water heater & a washer and dryer.  There are three typical causes of mold in this room. Mold was found; do you know where, the cause, and the fix?   We did.

Mold Questions

856-858-9509

This leads to having a professional mold inspection performed. Yes, there are specific paid inspections to evaluate a property for mold. Did you know you can test for mold and evaluate the fungi found, which helps unlock the driver (cause) of the mold was.   Yes, different molds need different conditions to grow.

Keep in mind that unless a mold inspection was contracted as part of the purchase due diligence, meaning that in addition to your home inspection, radon testing, termite, piling inspection, engineering, roof, pool, septic, etc., then mold was not specifically looked for, but it was noted by an inspector or a relative with a keen eye. This drives you to needing to get a professional involved.

What can you expect from a professional mold inspection?

Confirmation that mold is or is not present.

Evaluation of the causes of the mold and the extent of the mold. Yes, mold can have multiple causes.

Lastly, a budget to address the mold (remediate) and repairs that may have been missed to prevent the mold from returning.

It is not uncommon that after the mold inspection is completed, the real estate settles, either before of after the mold is remediated. Yes, it is common that there is not enough time to address the mold before settlement. We are seeing payments to environmental companies directly from settlement accounts (title Company), which ensures the mold is addressed.   Reading between the lines here is telling, for buyers and lenders to proceed to settlement when mold is not addresse,d is saying there is a comfort level about the mold being addressed.

Call A Mold Professional

888-301-1050

Use your Environmental card to sell real estate faster, by card I mean having a Phase I completed as a selling feature.  Never thought about having a Phase I sell a property?  Read on my friend.

Environmental due diligence is a mainstay of real estate transactions; it doesn’t matter if it’s residential, commercial, or industrial, but it is typically the last task completed.    I know this from 30-plus years of real estate transactions. Sellers and their representatives do not want to take the first step forward in evaluating a property for environmental issues. This phenomenon is commonly referred to as the ostrich effect.   Sellers wait until the buyer pulls the proverbial environmental trigger, shocking the seller that something was found, or the seller being surprised that environmental due diligence was even performed.   Don’t believe me, ask any realtor about environmental due diligence they had to face in a transaction, and the delays it caused.

On many sites, the sale grinds to a slow crawl while the seller digests the problem and the cost to address it.   Some buyers hang on waiting for work to be completed, but to say work can take a few months for some issues can push buyers to the next property. I had one that was going on for 10 months, the buyer just had to walk due to the length of time.

You want a fast closing, do your environmental due diligence before the property is listed. For a residence that can include a tank sweep and mold inspection, as these are the common environmental issues in homes. On commercial properties, perform a Phase I. Think of it as a sales brochure on the property. You may already have one from when you bought the property. Since they are only good for 6 months to a year, a fresh Phase I is needed. Maybe you never did a Phase I and hope a buyer will follow suit. Don’t count on it, that is the whole point of this exercise is to anticipate what environment will be needed to allow the sale to go through.

Your best case is that Phase I finds no issues, which is a huge selling feature for buyers.  It makes your property more appealing than competing properties, because the OTHER properties have an undefined environmental status. What property do you want? The one with the questions answered or the one with questions?

Due Diligence Questions?

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I will even turn the page to a Phase I finding an issue, and now a Phase II is needed, meaning testing. This is when many buyers stop the sales process because they have already spent money on inspection and do not care to test a property; they do not want to find something the owner may not address. A Phase II, when necessary, is the slam dunk step for a seller to undertake. If no issue is found, you are done. If an issue is found, well,l you have all the time to address it before a buyer comes along.  Matter of fact, after 30+ years of performing environmental due diligence, I can say with 100% certainty that sites that have had environmental completed before a property is listed for sale, sell faster and for more money.

Being forward-thinking and looking for environmental issues BEFORE a buyer comes along may seem counterintuitive, but it’s not; it’s being proactive to put the property in the best light possible.

The New Jersey Lead Safe law is approaching its 3-year birthday on July 22, 2025.   Since its inception, two sets of law changes have taken place.   The law has extended the deadline one year (to July 22, 2025) and made some tweaks to the inspection area.

The more impactful change was decided in February 2025, when the inspection requirements for 53 towns had their inspections requirements changed.  

Ten (10) New Jersey towns (1.8%) moved from visual inspection to dust wipe sampling, a more intensive inspection. 

and

Forty-three (43) towns, down from the current 84, (7.6%), moved from dust wipe sampling to visual inspection, a less intensive lead inspection.

Any town with dust wipe requirements means that a percentage of children had an elevated lead blood level.   Lessening the number of New Jersey towns that require dust wipe sampling underscores the success of the NJ Lead Safe Law.

Fifty-three towns are a small percentage of all the municipalities in New Jersey, and this change impacts 9.4% of towns, and most of those have moved to an easier, less costly lead methodology.   The lead law change was not provided to the companies that perform the inspection, but rather the municipalities, meaning sites were inspected improperly.  This change shows just how hard it is to keep track of the NJ Lead Safe Law.

The lead law is evolving, and compliance with the lead law and the liability when units fail is a headache for landlords.   Curren Environmental has been consulting on environmental issues for over 27 years.   Our team can help you with compliance with environmental matters, including lead.

Call the Experts

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🏡 Important Information for New Jersey Homebuyers and Realtors Regarding the 2022 Lead Paint Law

There is a new law in New Jersey that you cannot afford to overlook if you are buying or selling or renting a home, especially one that was constructed before 1978. Now that the New Jersey Lead-Based Paint Inspection Law is in force, it has significant ramifications for homebuyers, landlords, and realtors. Knowing this law is essential to avoiding delays, penalties, or unforeseen expenses at the closing table, whether you're managing rental properties, buying your first home, or representing a seller/buyer.

"🎯" The New Jersey Lead Paint Law: What Is It?
New Jersey mandated lead-based paint inspections for some residential rental properties constructed prior to 1978 as of July 22, 2022. The aim? Since lead poisoning is completely preventable but still common in older housing, it is important to identify and address lead hazards before children are exposed.

🛑 To whom does this law apply?
This law mainly affects:

• Owners of rental properties prior to 1978
• Realtors who list or sell properties that are impacted
• Homebuyers buying rental properties or investment properties
• Developers and property managers dealing with an older housing stock
• Depending on the municipality's classification (exempt vs. non-exempt), a property that meets the requirements must be examined visually or through dust wipe sampling for lead-based paint hazards.

🏚️Why 1978 Is Important
In 1978, the federal government outlawed the use of lead-based paint in homes. Lead-based paint was most likely used in homes constructed prior to that time.  For this reason, New Jersey is focusing on properties from this era, particularly rental properties where children might be present.

📝 What Realtors Must Understand
Informing clients of their obligations under the new law is a critical function of realtors. Here's how to safeguard your transactions:

• Inquire early: Was the property constructed prior to 1978? Has it ever been a rental?
• Look for exemptions: Because of their low risks of lead exposure, some municipalities are exempt.
• Notify investors and landlords that inspections must be performed at tenant turnover or every three years, whichever occurs first.
• Collaborate with certified inspectors: Certified lead evaluation contractors are required to conduct inspections.

🏠 Things Homebuyers Need to Be Aware Of
You may inherit compliance responsibilities if you purchase a home that has been rented or may be rented. This comprises:

• Making certain that inspections are current
• Setting aside money for possible remediation
• Maintaining precise records for upcoming leases or sales
• It's not only wise, but also required by law, to have a lead paint inspection done if you're purchasing a multifamily building or intend to rent out a unit.

💰 Penalties, charges, and responsibility
Fines for noncompliance can reach $1,000 per week until the problem is fixed. Additionally, the cost of remediation may vary based on the extent of the lead hazard, and municipalities may impose inspection fees.

🧰 How to Maintain Compliance

• Make an appointment for a certified contractor to inspect the home for lead paint.
• Any lead hazards should be addressed right away.
• Maintain records; you'll need them for upcoming property sales or inspections.
• Use the EPA's "Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home" guide to inform prospective tenants and purchasers.

🧭 Do You Need Assistance Getting Around?
In New Jersey, Curren Environmental provides expert lead paint testing, inspections, and cleanup services. With more than 27 years of experience, we assist property owners in maintaining compliance and ensuring the safety of families.

👉 For a complete FAQ and to arrange an inspection right now, go to CurrenEnvironmental.com.

Concluding Remarks for Homebuyers and Realtors

If ignored, the New Jersey Lead Paint Law could be a game-changer. It's not just another rule. By working with knowledgeable inspectors, educating your clients, and incorporating compliance into your real estate strategy, you can stay ahead of the curve.

The Problem with Metal Detectors for Underground Storage Tank Detection 

Have you ever used a metal detector at the beach? You probably found pennies, nickels, dimes, maybe some paper clips or a thumb tack. But did you ever find that diamond ring or emerald necklace that would be like winning the lottery? Probably not.

That's exactly what it's like using a metal detector to find Underground Storage Tanks (USTs).

Why Metal Detectors Fail for UST Detection

Here's the fundamental problem: metal detectors find ALL metal, not just underground storage tanks. Consider what surrounds every home:

• HVAC units and air conditioning systems
• Chain-link fencing
• Reinforced concrete with rebar
• Underground utilities and pipes
• Electrical conduits and wiring

When you hire someone with an $800 metal detector who charges $200 to essentially "find a penny," you're not getting the precision you need for underground storage tank detection.

The Hidden Costs of Inaccurate Tank Detection

Real Case Study: A homeowner purchased a property after having a metal detector scan performed. When they later tried to sell, a potential buyer hired Curren Environmental to perform a GPR scan. Result? We found a leaking underground storage tank that the metal detector had missed entirely. The remediation cost exceeded $45,000.

Don't let this happen to you.

Why Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) is Superior for Tank Scanning 

What is Ground Penetrating Radar?

Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) is a geophysical method developed over the past thirty years specifically for shallow, high-resolution subsurface investigations. Unlike metal detectors, GPR uses high-frequency pulsed electromagnetic waves (10 MHz to 1,000 MHz) to create detailed underground maps.

Key Advantages of GPR for Underground Storage Tank Detection

1. Detects Non-Metallic Objects

• Finds plastic pipes and non-conductive materials
• Locates tanks regardless of material composition
• Identifies buried objects metal detectors completely miss

2. Real-Time Subsurface Imaging

• Provides immediate visual feedback
• Shows exact location and depth
• Offers adjustable digital color displays
• No waiting for data processing

3. Precision Over General Detection

• Specifically designed for underground tank scanning
• Distinguishes between tanks and other buried objects
• Reduces false positives dramatically

How GPR Technology Works

GPR operates by:

1. Propagating energy downward into the ground
2. Reflecting signals back from boundaries with electrical property contrasts
3. Creating detailed subsurface maps of solid buried objects
4. Providing real-time analysis for immediate decision-making

Professional GPR Equipment vs. Consumer Metal Detectors 

Investment in Professional Technology

Professional GPR units cost over $20,000 and require trained technicians to operate effectively. This isn't just equipment—it's an investment in:

• Accurate results the first time
• Avoiding costly mistakes like missed tanks
• Professional expertise in interpretation
• Comprehensive reporting and documentation

Optimal Scanning Conditions

GPR performs best in:

• Unpaved areas (grass, dirt, gravel)
• Non-landscaped spaces with minimal obstructions
• Areas without heavy concrete or asphalt coverage

Note: While signals may attenuate over solid ground cover like concrete or pavers, professional GPR can still detect underground storage tanks in these conditions.

Real-World Case Studies and Success Stories 

Case Study 1: The $20,000 Mistake

Situation: The Homeowner relied on a metal detector scan for the property purchase. Problem: Metal detector missed a leaking underground storage tank. Solution: GPR scan identified the tank location. Outcome: Tank removal and $20,000+ remediation required

Case Study 2: Inconclusive Metal Detective Results

Situation: Multiple properties with "inconclusive" metal detector scans. Problem: Recommendations to "dig it up" or get GPR scan. Solution: Curren Environmental GPR scanning Outcome: Definitive results without unnecessary excavation

Frequently Asked Questions About Underground Storage Tank Detection (GPR FAQ) 

Q: How much does professional GPR tank scanning cost compared to metal detection?

A: While GPR scanning has a higher upfront cost, it prevents expensive mistakes. Curren has seen up to $500,000 in soil remediation costs. 

Q: Can GPR detect tanks under concrete or pavement?

A: Yes, though signal quality may be reduced. Professional GPR equipment can penetrate various surface materials.

Q: How deep can GPR detect underground storage tanks?

A: GPR can typically detect tanks at depths of 10-15 feet, depending on soil conditions and tank size.

Q: Is GPR safe for my property?

A: Absolutely. GPR is non-invasive and doesn't damage landscaping, driveways, or structures.

The Bottom Line: GPR vs. Metal Detectors for Underground Tank Detection

Remember this key distinction:

• Metal detectors find anything metal in the ground
• Ground Penetrating Radar specifically scans for Underground Storage Tanks

When you're dealing with property purchases, environmental compliance, or potential contamination issues, you need precision, not guesswork.

Ready to Schedule Professional Underground Storage Tank Detection?

Don't risk the costly mistakes that come with inadequate tank detection methods. Contact Curren Environmental for professional GPR tank scanning services that deliver accurate, reliable results.

Professional GPR tank scanning protects your investment and ensures environmental compliance.

For more information about professional underground storage tank detection services, contact Curren Environmental. Our technicians use state-of-the-art GPR technology to provide accurate, reliable results for residential and commercial properties.

A comprehensive resource for homeowners and real estate professionals.

Introduction

Mold—it's the unwelcome houseguest that no homeowner or realtor wants to encounter. Beyond being unsightly, mold can compromise structural integrity, decrease property values, and pose serious health risks. Whether you're a homeowner wanting to protect your living space or a realtor helping clients maintain valuable properties, understanding mold prevention is essential.

In this guide, we'll explore practical, effective strategies to keep homes mold-free, identify early warning signs, and address small problems before they become costly nightmares.

Understanding Mold: Know Your Enemy

Mold is a type of fungus that reproduces by releasing spores into the air. These microscopic particles are virtually everywhere, both indoors and outdoors. When spores land on damp surfaces with organic material (like wood, drywall, or fabric), they can quickly develop into mold colonies under the right conditions.

What mold needs to grow:

• Moisture or high humidity (above 60%)
• Food source (almost any organic material)
• Oxygen
• Warm temperatures (typically 77-86°F, though some molds can grow in cooler environments)
• Time (as little as 24-48 hours under ideal conditions)

Common Household Mold Hot Spots

Bathrooms

• Shower stalls and curtains
• Under and around toilets
• Sink cabinets
• Grout between tiles
• Ceiling (especially if ventilation is poor)

Kitchen

• Under the sink
• Behind the refrigerator
• Microwave and other appliances
• Garbage disposal areas

Basement & Crawl Spaces

• Around foundation cracks
• Near sump pumps
• Around windows
• On exposed dirt

Other Problematic Areas

• Window sills and frames
• Air conditioning units and ductwork
• Attic spaces (especially around roof leaks)
• Laundry areas
• Under carpeting in damp areas

10 Essential Mold Prevention Strategies

1. Control Indoor Humidity

Maintain indoor humidity between 30% and 50%. Use dehumidifiers in naturally damp spaces like basements, and monitor levels with a hygrometer (humidity meter).

2. Ensure Proper Ventilation

• Install and use exhaust fans in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms
• Ensure dryer vents direct air outside, not into attics or crawl spaces
• Consider energy-efficient ventilation systems for whole-house humidity control

3. Address Water Issues Promptly

• Fix leaky roofs, windows, and pipes within 24-48 hours
• Inspect water-using appliances regularly (water heaters, washing machines, dishwashers)
• Clean and repair roof gutters to prevent water seepage

4. Improve Air Circulation

• Don't push furniture completely against the walls
• Open doors between rooms
• Use ceiling fans to increase air movement
• Open windows when weather permits (unless outdoor humidity is high)

5. Basement and Foundation Care

• Apply waterproof sealants to basement walls and floors
• Ensure proper grading around foundations to direct water away
• Consider installing a sump pump if basement flooding is an issue

6. Smart Bathroom Habits

• Squeegee shower walls after use
• Hang towels to dry completely
• Leave the shower doors/curtains open to allow drying
• Clean bathroom surfaces regularly with mold-inhibiting products

7. Strategic Landscaping

• Don't place mulch directly against home foundations
• Trim vegetation to allow airflow near exterior walls
• Ensure sprinklers don't spray directly onto the house

8. Mold-Resistant Building Materials

When renovating or building, consider:

• Mold-resistant drywall or Sheetrock
• Mold-inhibiting paints
• Paperless drywall for bathrooms
• Cement board in shower and bath areas

9. Regular Home Inspections

• Check hidden areas quarterly (behind appliances, under sinks)
• Inspect attics during rainy seasons
• Look for water stains, discoloration, or musty odors

10. HVAC Maintenance

• Change air filters regularly (every 1-3 months)
• Have ducts professionally cleaned if mold is suspected
• Consider UV lights for HVAC systems to kill airborne spores

Early Warning Signs of Mold Problems

Be alert for these indicators that mold might be developing:

• Musty, earthy odors
• Visible water stains or discoloration
• Peeling or bubbling paint/wallpaper
• Warping of wood
• Increased allergy symptoms indoors
• Excessive condensation on windows or pipes

Health Impacts: Why Mold Prevention Matters

Mold exposure can cause various health issues, especially for sensitive individuals:

• Nasal congestion, coughing, and wheezing
• Eye irritation
• Throat irritation
• Skin rashes
• Headaches
• More severe reactions in those with asthma or compromised immune systems

For Realtors: Protecting Your Clients and Listings

During Property Evaluations

• Know how to spot potential mold issues during walkthroughs
• Recognize "cover-up" signs like fresh paint in unusual areas
• Include mold inspections in standard home inspection recommendations

When Listing Properties

• Advise sellers on addressing mold issues before listing
• Document mold remediation efforts
• Understand disclosure requirements in your state
• Consider pre-listing inspections to identify problems early

Protecting Vacant Properties

• Set thermostats appropriately (usually above 55°F)
• Consider periodic dehumidification
• Ensure regular property checks
• Maintain minimal water use in plumbing systems

DIY Mold Cleaning Solutions

Important Safety Notes:

• Never mix bleach with ammonia or other household cleaners
• Always wear gloves and a mask when cleaning mold
• Ensure adequate ventilation

When to Call Professionals

Consider professional help when:

• Mold is inside HVAC systems
• There's mold growth after flooding with contaminated water
• You suspect hidden mold in walls or ceilings
• Residents experience health symptoms potentially related to mold
• Different smells that you are unfamiliar with, especially in attics, crawl spaces and basements

Seasonal Mold Prevention Calendar

Spring

• Check for winter water damage
• Clean gutters after spring blossoms
• Inspect the roof after winter weather
• Test the sump pump before spring rains

Summer

• Monitor air conditioning systems
• Check for condensation issues
• Inspect outdoor sprinkler spray patterns
• Clean and dry pool equipment properly

Fall

• Clear gutters of autumn leaves
• Check window seals before winter
• Inspect attic ventilation
• Examine the basement for summer condensation issues

Winter

• Monitor indoor humidity during the heating season
• Check for ice dams on roofs
• Ensure proper ventilation when using humidifiers
• Inspect pipes in cold areas for condensation

Conclusion

Preventing mold is far easier and more cost-effective than addressing an established problem. By implementing these strategies, homeowners can protect their health and property value, while realtors can better serve clients by identifying potential issues early.

Remember, the key to successful mold prevention lies in controlling moisture, ensuring proper ventilation, and staying vigilant through regular inspections. Taking these proactive steps today can save thousands in remediation costs tomorrow.