Tank Sweep Company Missed Oil Tank

[Michael Lear]

Hi Everyone,

I purchased a property to flip about a year ago.  Prior to purchase, as is customary in NJ, I had a tank sweep company come investigate the property.  They indicated that there were no oil tanks on the property.  Fast forward a year later, we get an offer and the new buyers find an oil tank as part of their pre-purchase inspection.  I was completely shocked given that I had paid to have some one to look for a tank.  Anyway, the tank sweep company said they don't do oil tank removal and to take matters up with their insurance.  The adjuster says over the phone that they do not think the tank sweep company should be responsible for any removal costs which could go into 5 figures.  Has anyone else had this problem?  How should this be handled?  Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

-Mike