Environmental

What is 'underground storage tank' (UST) liability in Hawaii and why does it affect property buyers?

AA. A concern only for industrial properties; residential buyers need not investigate
BB. USTs (used for fuel or chemicals) can leak and contaminate soil and groundwater; buyers may inherit cleanup liability if tanks exist on the property they purchase✓ Correct
CC. Hawaii has no UST regulations; they are only regulated federally
DD. Only tanks actively in use are a concern; abandoned tanks pose no liability

Explanation

Underground storage tanks can leak petroleum products or chemicals into soil and groundwater, creating significant cleanup liability. Hawaii has active UST regulations. Property buyers should investigate UST history (especially for former gas stations, farms, or industrial sites) because CERCLA may impose cleanup liability on current owners regardless of fault.

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