Do I Need to Remove My Fuel Tank Before Selling My Property in WA?

Handy Fuel WA technician carrying out underground fuel storage tank decommissioning and excavation at a Perth commercial site

If you're preparing to sell a property in Perth or regional Western Australia and there's an old fuel tank on the premises, it's one of those things you can't afford to ignore. Whether it's an old kerosene heating tank from a 1970s home, a disused diesel storage tank on a commercial site, or an underground tank that was forgotten about years ago, the presence of an undeclared or undecommissioned fuel tank can hold up or derail a property sale entirely.

Why Does It Matter to Buyers and Conveyancers?

An old fuel storage tank represents potential environmental liability. If a tank has been leaking, even slowly over many years, there may be hydrocarbon contamination in the surrounding soil and groundwater. Buyers, their banks, and their legal representatives are increasingly aware of this risk, and most will require evidence that any tanks on the property have been professionally decommissioned and certified before settlement proceeds.

In Western Australia, the decommissioning of underground fuel storage tanks is governed by the Dangerous Goods Safety Act 2004 and must be carried out in accordance with Australian Standard AS 4976-2008. This isn't a job for a general tradesperson. It requires qualified technicians with the appropriate dangerous goods licences and experience in fuel system removal and soil remediation.

What Documentation Will I Need?

A properly completed decommissioning project should result in a written decommissioning report and certificate covering all works carried out, soil sample results, gas-free certification, and waste disposal records. This is the documentation your conveyancer, the buyer's solicitor, and potentially the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation may require.

Don't Leave It Until the Last Minute

Decommissioning takes time, particularly if soil contamination is found and remediation is required. If you're planning to sell, get the tank assessed early in the process rather than waiting until you're under contract.

Handy Fuel WA provides professional underground and aboveground fuel tank decommissioning services across Perth and Western Australia, with full certification on completion. Contact us today to arrange a site assessment.