Environmental

Underground storage tanks (USTs) are a significant environmental concern in Pennsylvania commercial real estate because:

APennsylvania law requires all commercial properties over one acre to have a registered UST
BCorroded or leaking USTs at former gas stations and industrial sites can contaminate soil and groundwater with petroleum products✓ Correct
CPennsylvania assesses a special annual tax on all commercial properties with registered USTs
DPADEP only regulates USTs with a capacity greater than 10,000 gallons

Explanation

Underground storage tanks containing petroleum products or hazardous substances can corrode and leak, contaminating soil and groundwater. Pennsylvania has many former gas stations, dry cleaners, and industrial sites with UST histories — particularly in older urban and industrial areas. PADEP regulates UST installation, operation, monitoring, and removal under state and federal programs. Commercial buyers and lenders should obtain Phase I and Phase II environmental assessments on properties with potential UST histories to assess cleanup liability.

Related Pennsylvania Environmental Questions

Practice More Pennsylvania Real Estate Questions

1,500+ questions covering all exam topics. Start free — no signup required.

Take the Free Pennsylvania Quiz →