---
title: What is a Cistern?                                       
description: A cistern is a buried tank, commonly made of brick &  are typically associated with capturing and storing rainwater.  Cisterns are not cess pools 
image: https://www.currenenvironmental.com/hubfs/IMG_33381-JPG.jpeg
---

[![Curren Environmental](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/hs-fs/file-13663245-jpg/images/currenheader.jpg?width=4000&height=1107&name=currenheader.jpg "Curren Environmental")](http:\\www.currenenvironmental.com)

[![Learn more visit Curren Environmental](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/28573/b6b1b918-e12f-4b0e-bf98-f6ea709f4aa5.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/28573/b6b1b918-e12f-4b0e-bf98-f6ea709f4aa5)

# Hot Environmental Topics

## [What is a Cistern?                                       ](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/what-is-a-cistern)

** Feb 16, 2023 10:30:00 AM / by [David C Sulock](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/author/david-c-sulock)

- [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share)

## Have a home older than 80 years?  You may have a cistern.

What is a Cistern?  A cistern is a buried tank, commonly made of brick or metal, and is designed to store water. Cisterns are typically designed for capturing and storing rainwater.  Cisterns are not cesspools that are for septic.

## Today some people use rain barrels, so you can think of a cistern as a buried rain barrel.

![cistern closure](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/hs-fs/hubfs/IMG_33371-JPG.jpeg?width=338&name=IMG_33371-JPG.jpeg)

The water collected in cisterns historically was utilized for two purposes: domestic use and consumption.

Domestic uses of the water are flushing toilets and watering landscaping.  Since water stored is from rainwater the owner of a cistern could reduce the costs associated with the delivery of potable water from utilities.  It could also supplement water from wells on a site that people would use for human consumption.  

[![Questions? 888-301-1050](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/28573/282c812c-38f4-4cf3-8554-e65a91eddc59.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/28573/282c812c-38f4-4cf3-8554-e65a91eddc59)

You may find you have a cistern by constant settlement in your yard like the photo below or by doing a GPR survey to scan for voids.  [GPR Survey many residential due diligence oil tank sweeps find cisterns when GPR is used.    ](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/locating-hidden-oil-tanks)

![evaluating a sink hole ](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/hs-fs/hubfs/IMG_3581.jpg?width=314&name=IMG_3581.jpg)

![what is a cistern?](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/hs-fs/hubfs/IMG_33381-JPG.jpeg?width=130&height=174&name=IMG_33381-JPG.jpeg)This cistern was found from the settlement in the photo to the right.   The cistern lost some integrity allowing collapse in a section of the walls, which allowed soils to seep into the cistern void.  This home was circa 1925.    The owner wanted the liability removed so the cistern was filled in place as it had not been used in years.  There are several feet of water at the bottom of this cistern and a person or animal falling into this would hurt.

Curren has over 25 years of experience in decommissioning and abandoning buried tanks.  We recently completed a tank sweep for a home sale.  The GPR survey located a buried metal tank behind the garage which was either an old gas tank, oil tank, or cistern.  Turns out it was a cistern.

![Cistern closure and abandonment](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/hs-fs/hubfs/IMG_7696.jpg?width=4032&height=3024&name=IMG_7696.jpg)

![cistern abandonment](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/hs-fs/hubfs/IMG_7700.jpg?width=4032&height=3024&name=IMG_7700.jpg)

[Ground Penetrating Radar Surveys for Cisterns](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/tank-sweeps-metal-detector-vs-gpr)

[![Questions? 888-301-1050](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/28573/282c812c-38f4-4cf3-8554-e65a91eddc59.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/28573/282c812c-38f4-4cf3-8554-e65a91eddc59)

![What is a cistern?](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Curren%20Equipment-1.jpg?width=4032&height=3024&name=Curren%20Equipment-1.jpg)

 

#### Written by [David C Sulock](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/author/david-c-sulock)

### Subscribe to Email Updates

- [Recent](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/what-is-a-cistern#tab-1)
- [Popular](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/what-is-a-cistern#tab-2)
- [Categories](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/what-is-a-cistern#tab-3)

### Lists by Topic

- [Mold Testing (25)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/mold-testing)
- [mold (23)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/mold)
- [mold remediation (20)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/mold-remediation)
- [oil tank removal nj (20)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/oil-tank-removal-nj)
- [Due Diligence (19)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/due-diligence)
- [OIl Tank Sweeps (18)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/oil-tank-sweeps)
- [Phase I (18)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/phase-i)
- [mold inspections (17)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/mold-inspections)
- [mold cleanup (14)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/mold-cleanup)
- [tank removal (14)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/tank-removal)
- [Lead (13)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/lead)
- [Lead paint inspections (13)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/lead-paint-inspections)
- [Phase I ESA (13)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/phase-i-esa)
- [Phase II (13)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/phase-ii)
- [mold assessments (13)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/mold-assessments)
- [AAI All Appropriate Inquiries (12)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/aai-all-appropriate-inquiries)
- [oil tank removal (12)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/oil-tank-removal)
- [mold survey (11)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/mold-survey)
- [Mold, Mold growth, mold remediation (10)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/mold-mold-growth-mold-remediation)
- [mold consultant (10)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/mold-consultant)
- [oil tank (10)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/oil-tank)
- [oil tank removal pa (10)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/oil-tank-removal-pa)
- [tank leak (10)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/tank-leak)
- [underground oil tanks (10)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/underground-oil-tanks)
- [ASTM E1527-21 (9)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/astm-e1527-21)
- [mold contractor (9)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/mold-contractor)
- [oil tank removal new jersey (9)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/oil-tank-removal-new-jersey)
- [professional mold remediation (9)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/professional-mold-remediation)
- [gpr tank scan (8)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/gpr-tank-scan)
- [Lead Free Cert (7)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/lead-free-cert)
- [Lead Free Certification (7)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/lead-free-certification)
- [Lead Paint Inspection (7)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/lead-paint-inspection)
- [Lead wipe sample (7)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/lead-wipe-sample)
- [gpr tank sweeps (7)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/gpr-tank-sweeps)
- [tank scans (7)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/tank-scans)
- [tank sweep (7)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/tank-sweep)
- [1031 Exchange (6)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/1031-exchange)
- [LSRP (6)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/lsrp)
- [Mosquito Remedation (6)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/mosquito-remedation)
- [NJ Lead Safe Law (6)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/nj-lead-safe-law)
- [mold expert (6)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/mold-expert)
- [mold professional (6)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/mold-professional)
- [mosquito control service (6)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/mosquito-control-service)
- [tank sweeps with GPR (6)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/tank-sweeps-with-gpr)
- [Lead Hazard (5)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/lead-hazard)
- [NJ Lead Law (5)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/nj-lead-law)
- [NJ Lead Safe cert (5)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/nj-lead-safe-cert)
- [NJ Lead safe (5)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/nj-lead-safe)
- [NJDEP HOTS (5)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/njdep-hots)
- [NJDEP oil tank removal grant (5)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/njdep-oil-tank-removal-grant)
- [Phase II Costs (5)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/phase-ii-costs)
- [Phase II GPR (5)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/phase-ii-gpr)
- [Property Transaction Screens (5)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/property-transaction-screens)
- [lead risk assessment (5)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/lead-risk-assessment)
- [tank abandoned in place (5)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/tank-abandoned-in-place)
- [LSRP Program (4)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/lsrp-program)
- [LSRP in New Jersey (4)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/lsrp-in-new-jersey)
- [NJDEP Unregulated heating Oil Tank program (4)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/njdep-unregulated-heating-oil-tank-program)
- [gpr tank swep (4)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/gpr-tank-swep)
- [lead paint (4)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/lead-paint)
- [lead paint wipe sample (4)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/lead-paint-wipe-sample)
- [lead visual inspection (4)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/lead-visual-inspection)
- [mosquito (4)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/mosquito)
- [mosquito management service (4)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/mosquito-management-service)
- [mosquito removal (4)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/mosquito-removal)
- [oil tank leak (4)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/oil-tank-leak)
- [tank leaks (4)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/tank-leaks)
- [tank sweep with gpr (4)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/tank-sweep-with-gpr)
- [Environmental Site Assessment (3)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/environmental-site-assessment)
- [Indoor Air Quality (3)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/indoor-air-quality)
- [LSRP Deadline (3)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/lsrp-deadline)
- [LSRP costs (3)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/lsrp-costs)
- [LSRP in NJ (3)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/lsrp-in-nj)
- [NJ HOTS (3)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/nj-hots)
- [NJ LSRP Program (3)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/nj-lsrp-program)
- [NJDEP LSRP (3)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/njdep-lsrp)
- [New Jersey LSRP (3)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/new-jersey-lsrp)
- [filled in place tank (3)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/filled-in-place-tank)
- [foam filling oil tank (3)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/foam-filling-oil-tank)
- [lead free designation (3)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/lead-free-designation)
- [mosquito control (3)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/mosquito-control)
- [oil tank grants (3)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/oil-tank-grants)
- [pa tank removal (3)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/pa-tank-removal)
- [tank grants (3)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/tank-grants)
- [tank removal grants (3)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/tank-removal-grants)
- [Delaware tank removal (2)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/delaware-tank-removal)
- [EDA tank grants (2)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/eda-tank-grants)
- [Finding an LSRP (2)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/finding-an-lsrp)
- [Home inspection (2)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/home-inspection)
- [Lead Inspection (2)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/lead-inspection)
- [Lead paint hazards (2)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/lead-paint-hazards)
- [NJDEP LSRP Program (2)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/njdep-lsrp-program)
- [Preliminary Assessment (2)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/preliminary-assessment)
- [Selling a house, Buying a house, Real Estate (2)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/selling-a-house-buying-a-house-real-estate)
- [What does a Phase II cost? (2)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/what-does-a-phase-ii-cost)
- [be greener (2)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/be-greener)
- [black mold (2)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/black-mold)
- [environmental inspections (2)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/environmental-inspections)
- [foam tank filling (2)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/foam-tank-filling)
- [free oil tank removal (2)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/free-oil-tank-removal)
- [green practices (2)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/green-practices)
- [green things we can do everyday (2)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/green-things-we-can-do-everyday)
- [leaking tanks (2)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/leaking-tanks)
- [mosquito removal companies (2)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/mosquito-removal-companies)
- [oil tank leaks (2)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/oil-tank-leaks)
- [oil tank testing (2)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/oil-tank-testing)
- [soil sampling removed tanks (2)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/soil-sampling-removed-tanks)
- [soil testing (2)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/soil-testing)
- [tank grant changes (2)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/tank-grant-changes)
- [things to do to be green (2)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/things-to-do-to-be-green)
- [1031 (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/1031)
- [2011 (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/2011)
- [ASTM 1527-05 (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/astm-1527-05)
- [Clean air (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/clean-air)
- [Crawl space management (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/crawl-space-management)
- [Crawlspace Management (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/crawlspace-management)
- [Crawlspace oil tank (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/crawlspace-oil-tank)
- [Crawlspace tank (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/crawlspace-tank)
- [Estate (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/estate)
- [IAQ (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/iaq)
- [Inherited Property (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/inherited-property)
- [Invasive Mold Infections (IMI) (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/invasive-mold-infections-imi)
- [Lead Paint Survey (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/lead-paint-survey)
- [Lead testing (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/lead-testing)
- [Metal Detector Limitations (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/metal-detector-limitations)
- [Mold Evaluation (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/mold-evaluation)
- [Mold Inspection (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/mold-inspection)
- [NFA (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/nfa)
- [NJDEP ISRA (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/njdep-isra)
- [NJDEP oil tank grant change may 3 (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/njdep-oil-tank-grant-change-may-3)
- [NJDEP tank grant discontinued (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/njdep-tank-grant-discontinued)
- [NJDEP tank grants (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/njdep-tank-grants)
- [NO Further Action (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/no-further-action)
- [Septic Systems (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/septic-systems)
- [Tank removal NJ (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/tank-removal-nj)
- [abandoned oil tank (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/abandoned-oil-tank)
- [antibodies (IgG/IgE) (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/antibodies-igg-ige)
- [asbestos (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/asbestos)
- [being grren (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/being-grren)
- [best tank sweep (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/best-tank-sweep)
- [buying a home with a tank (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/buying-a-home-with-a-tank)
- [buying house with oil tank (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/buying-house-with-oil-tank)
- [cheap green practices (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/cheap-green-practices)
- [closed in place oil tank (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/closed-in-place-oil-tank)
- [green tips (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/green-tips)
- [healthy home tips (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/healthy-home-tips)
- [home disclosure (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/home-disclosure)
- [home maintenance (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/home-maintenance)
- [invasive mold infections (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/invasive-mold-infections)
- [lead paint testing (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/lead-paint-testing)
- [mold regulations (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/mold-regulations)
- [oil tank remediation (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/oil-tank-remediation)
- [property purchase inspection (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/property-purchase-inspection)
- [state mold regulations (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/state-mold-regulations)
- [tank foam (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/tank-foam)
- [tank removal PA (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/tank-removal-pa)
- [tank testing (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/tank-testing)
- [tanks weep (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/tanks-weep)
- [underground storage tank detection (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/underground-storage-tank-detection)

[see all](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/what-is-a-cistern#)

### Posts by Topic

- [Mold Testing (25)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/mold-testing)
- [mold (23)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/mold)
- [mold remediation (20)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/mold-remediation)
- [oil tank removal nj (20)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/oil-tank-removal-nj)
- [Due Diligence (19)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/due-diligence)
- [OIl Tank Sweeps (18)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/oil-tank-sweeps)
- [Phase I (18)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/phase-i)
- [mold inspections (17)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/mold-inspections)
- [mold cleanup (14)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/mold-cleanup)
- [tank removal (14)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/tank-removal)
- [Lead (13)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/lead)
- [Lead paint inspections (13)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/lead-paint-inspections)
- [Phase I ESA (13)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/phase-i-esa)
- [Phase II (13)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/phase-ii)
- [mold assessments (13)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/mold-assessments)
- [AAI All Appropriate Inquiries (12)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/aai-all-appropriate-inquiries)
- [oil tank removal (12)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/oil-tank-removal)
- [mold survey (11)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/mold-survey)
- [Mold, Mold growth, mold remediation (10)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/mold-mold-growth-mold-remediation)
- [mold consultant (10)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/mold-consultant)
- [oil tank (10)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/oil-tank)
- [oil tank removal pa (10)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/oil-tank-removal-pa)
- [tank leak (10)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/tank-leak)
- [underground oil tanks (10)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/underground-oil-tanks)
- [ASTM E1527-21 (9)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/astm-e1527-21)
- [mold contractor (9)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/mold-contractor)
- [oil tank removal new jersey (9)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/oil-tank-removal-new-jersey)
- [professional mold remediation (9)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/professional-mold-remediation)
- [gpr tank scan (8)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/gpr-tank-scan)
- [Lead Free Cert (7)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/lead-free-cert)
- [Lead Free Certification (7)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/lead-free-certification)
- [Lead Paint Inspection (7)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/lead-paint-inspection)
- [Lead wipe sample (7)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/lead-wipe-sample)
- [gpr tank sweeps (7)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/gpr-tank-sweeps)
- [tank scans (7)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/tank-scans)
- [tank sweep (7)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/tank-sweep)
- [1031 Exchange (6)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/1031-exchange)
- [LSRP (6)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/lsrp)
- [Mosquito Remedation (6)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/mosquito-remedation)
- [NJ Lead Safe Law (6)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/nj-lead-safe-law)
- [mold expert (6)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/mold-expert)
- [mold professional (6)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/mold-professional)
- [mosquito control service (6)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/mosquito-control-service)
- [tank sweeps with GPR (6)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/tank-sweeps-with-gpr)
- [Lead Hazard (5)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/lead-hazard)
- [NJ Lead Law (5)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/nj-lead-law)
- [NJ Lead Safe cert (5)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/nj-lead-safe-cert)
- [NJ Lead safe (5)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/nj-lead-safe)
- [NJDEP HOTS (5)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/njdep-hots)
- [NJDEP oil tank removal grant (5)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/njdep-oil-tank-removal-grant)
- [Phase II Costs (5)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/phase-ii-costs)
- [Phase II GPR (5)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/phase-ii-gpr)
- [Property Transaction Screens (5)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/property-transaction-screens)
- [lead risk assessment (5)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/lead-risk-assessment)
- [tank abandoned in place (5)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/tank-abandoned-in-place)
- [LSRP Program (4)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/lsrp-program)
- [LSRP in New Jersey (4)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/lsrp-in-new-jersey)
- [NJDEP Unregulated heating Oil Tank program (4)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/njdep-unregulated-heating-oil-tank-program)
- [gpr tank swep (4)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/gpr-tank-swep)
- [lead paint (4)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/lead-paint)
- [lead paint wipe sample (4)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/lead-paint-wipe-sample)
- [lead visual inspection (4)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/lead-visual-inspection)
- [mosquito (4)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/mosquito)
- [mosquito management service (4)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/mosquito-management-service)
- [mosquito removal (4)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/mosquito-removal)
- [oil tank leak (4)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/oil-tank-leak)
- [tank leaks (4)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/tank-leaks)
- [tank sweep with gpr (4)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/tank-sweep-with-gpr)
- [Environmental Site Assessment (3)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/environmental-site-assessment)
- [Indoor Air Quality (3)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/indoor-air-quality)
- [LSRP Deadline (3)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/lsrp-deadline)
- [LSRP costs (3)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/lsrp-costs)
- [LSRP in NJ (3)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/lsrp-in-nj)
- [NJ HOTS (3)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/nj-hots)
- [NJ LSRP Program (3)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/nj-lsrp-program)
- [NJDEP LSRP (3)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/njdep-lsrp)
- [New Jersey LSRP (3)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/new-jersey-lsrp)
- [filled in place tank (3)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/filled-in-place-tank)
- [foam filling oil tank (3)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/foam-filling-oil-tank)
- [lead free designation (3)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/lead-free-designation)
- [mosquito control (3)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/mosquito-control)
- [oil tank grants (3)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/oil-tank-grants)
- [pa tank removal (3)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/pa-tank-removal)
- [tank grants (3)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/tank-grants)
- [tank removal grants (3)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/tank-removal-grants)
- [Delaware tank removal (2)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/delaware-tank-removal)
- [EDA tank grants (2)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/eda-tank-grants)
- [Finding an LSRP (2)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/finding-an-lsrp)
- [Home inspection (2)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/home-inspection)
- [Lead Inspection (2)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/lead-inspection)
- [Lead paint hazards (2)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/lead-paint-hazards)
- [NJDEP LSRP Program (2)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/njdep-lsrp-program)
- [Preliminary Assessment (2)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/preliminary-assessment)
- [Selling a house, Buying a house, Real Estate (2)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/selling-a-house-buying-a-house-real-estate)
- [What does a Phase II cost? (2)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/what-does-a-phase-ii-cost)
- [be greener (2)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/be-greener)
- [black mold (2)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/black-mold)
- [environmental inspections (2)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/environmental-inspections)
- [foam tank filling (2)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/foam-tank-filling)
- [free oil tank removal (2)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/free-oil-tank-removal)
- [green practices (2)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/green-practices)
- [green things we can do everyday (2)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/green-things-we-can-do-everyday)
- [leaking tanks (2)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/leaking-tanks)
- [mosquito removal companies (2)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/mosquito-removal-companies)
- [oil tank leaks (2)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/oil-tank-leaks)
- [oil tank testing (2)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/oil-tank-testing)
- [soil sampling removed tanks (2)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/soil-sampling-removed-tanks)
- [soil testing (2)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/soil-testing)
- [tank grant changes (2)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/tank-grant-changes)
- [things to do to be green (2)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/things-to-do-to-be-green)
- [1031 (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/1031)
- [2011 (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/2011)
- [ASTM 1527-05 (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/astm-1527-05)
- [Clean air (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/clean-air)
- [Crawl space management (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/crawl-space-management)
- [Crawlspace Management (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/crawlspace-management)
- [Crawlspace oil tank (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/crawlspace-oil-tank)
- [Crawlspace tank (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/crawlspace-tank)
- [Estate (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/estate)
- [IAQ (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/iaq)
- [Inherited Property (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/inherited-property)
- [Invasive Mold Infections (IMI) (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/invasive-mold-infections-imi)
- [Lead Paint Survey (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/lead-paint-survey)
- [Lead testing (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/lead-testing)
- [Metal Detector Limitations (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/metal-detector-limitations)
- [Mold Evaluation (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/mold-evaluation)
- [Mold Inspection (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/mold-inspection)
- [NFA (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/nfa)
- [NJDEP ISRA (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/njdep-isra)
- [NJDEP oil tank grant change may 3 (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/njdep-oil-tank-grant-change-may-3)
- [NJDEP tank grant discontinued (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/njdep-tank-grant-discontinued)
- [NJDEP tank grants (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/njdep-tank-grants)
- [NO Further Action (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/no-further-action)
- [Septic Systems (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/septic-systems)
- [Tank removal NJ (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/tank-removal-nj)
- [abandoned oil tank (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/abandoned-oil-tank)
- [antibodies (IgG/IgE) (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/antibodies-igg-ige)
- [asbestos (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/asbestos)
- [being grren (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/being-grren)
- [best tank sweep (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/best-tank-sweep)
- [buying a home with a tank (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/buying-a-home-with-a-tank)
- [buying house with oil tank (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/buying-house-with-oil-tank)
- [cheap green practices (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/cheap-green-practices)
- [closed in place oil tank (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/closed-in-place-oil-tank)
- [green tips (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/green-tips)
- [healthy home tips (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/healthy-home-tips)
- [home disclosure (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/home-disclosure)
- [home maintenance (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/home-maintenance)
- [invasive mold infections (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/invasive-mold-infections)
- [lead paint testing (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/lead-paint-testing)
- [mold regulations (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/mold-regulations)
- [oil tank remediation (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/oil-tank-remediation)
- [property purchase inspection (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/property-purchase-inspection)
- [state mold regulations (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/state-mold-regulations)
- [tank foam (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/tank-foam)
- [tank removal PA (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/tank-removal-pa)
- [tank testing (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/tank-testing)
- [tanks weep (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/tanks-weep)
- [underground storage tank detection (1)](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/topic/underground-storage-tank-detection)

[see all](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/what-is-a-cistern#)

### Recent Posts

#### About Us

Curren Environmental, Inc. (Curren) is a professional environmental services company that provides turnkey solutions for a broad spectrum of environmental issues. **With over 28 ****years **of experience in tank removals, mold, subsurface evaluations (soil and water sampling), site investigations, and remedial activities, you know you are dealing with a company that has a strong foundation of knowledge and experience to handle your environmental issue.  

#### Contact Us

**

 888-301-1050

**

[info@currenenvironmental.com](mailto:info@currenenvironmental.com)

**

 10 Penn Avenue  
 Cherry Hill, NJ 08002

Curren Environmental is your environmental services company servicing Delaware, New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Nothing on this web page, or anywhere on this web site, is to be construed as giving legal advice, nor is it intended to replace the counsel of your own legal and financial advisors. The information supplied is intended to help make you more aware of issues that you should consider and then discuss with your own legal and financial advisors.© 20 Curren Environmental, Inc. - All Rights Reserved.

<https://www.currenenvironmental.com/CMS/UI/Modules/BizBlogger/rss.aspx?moduleid=338761><https://www.facebook.com/226639654768><https://www.instagram.com/currenenv><https://www.linkedin.com/company/733691>

[**](https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/what-is-a-cistern#)

```json
{
  "@context" : "https://schema.org",
  "@type" : "BlogPosting",
  "author" : {
    "@type" : "Person",
    "name" : "David C Sulock",
    "url" : "https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/author/david-c-sulock"
  },
  "dateModified" : "2023-08-08T12:35:17.736Z",
  "datePublished" : "2023-02-16T15:30:00.000Z",
  "headline" : "What is a Cistern?                                       ",
  "image" : [ "https://www.currenenvironmental.com/hubfs/IMG_33381-JPG.jpeg" ],
  "mainEntityOfPage" : {
    "@id" : "https://www.currenenvironmental.com/blog/what-is-a-cistern",
    "@type" : "WebPage"
  },
  "publisher" : {
    "@type" : "Organization",
    "logo" : {
      "@type" : "ImageObject",
      "url" : "https://www.currenenvironmental.com/hs-fs/file-13663245-jpg/images/currenheader.jpg"
    },
    "name" : "Curren Environmental, Inc."
  }
}
```