Letting oil tank on empty when they move in?

[Jimmy S.]

In the past I have always made sure its about 1/4 full or more when they moved in and needed to be left at that level when moving out. Well 9 out of 10 times they use every drop left and its empty when they move out and I always seem to get burned.

How does everyone else do it?

Is it a bad way to start with a new tenant leaving the tank on almost empty and them having to get oil right away when they move in, that way it is theirs. 

thanks

[Kevin Harrison]

Maybe you should start with the tank full and take a separate "OIL" deposit at move in to cover the cost of the oil if they don't refill it. As always, check with you state laws to makes sure this is legal in your state.

Starting with it full is an easy way to ensure that they know how much to fill it back up. Starting off with it empty is a PITA for them especially when they are in the middle of moving in.