Environmental

What are 'underground storage tanks' (USTs), and how do they affect Pennsylvania real estate transactions?

AUSTs are only relevant for commercial properties and have no impact on residential sales
BProperties with known or suspected USTs require environmental assessment, and contamination can cloud title and create cleanup liability✓ Correct
CPennsylvania exempts residential USTs from any disclosure requirements
DUST liability is assumed by the state under Pennsylvania's Act 2 program automatically

Explanation

Underground storage tanks (especially old fuel oil and heating oil tanks) are common in Pennsylvania's older housing stock and former gas station sites. Known or suspected USTs require environmental assessment; contamination can extend to neighboring properties. Cleanup liability follows the property regardless of who caused the contamination. The Pennsylvania Seller Disclosure form requires disclosure of known USTs, and Phase I/II environmental assessments are standard for commercial acquisitions.

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