BLOG

There are approximately 3,000 oil spills in the UK each year which can damage structures and groundwater as well as have a severe toxic impact on your health.  The clean-up costs of oil spillage can be exceptionally high, typically into tens of thousands, therefore it’s pertinent for the homeowner to maintain their oil tank and associated pipe works to reduce this risk.

Paul Murchan, Director, Gullion Ltd said, “To prevent oil spillage we would advise that your oil storage tank is well maintained.  Plastic tanks should be checked for warping and surface bleaching by the sun.  Metal tanks should be painted regularly with suitable paint and we would encourage homeowners to monitor their oil usage – if it is higher than normal for that time of year, then this may indicate an oil leak.

“For many, a strong smell of oil can be the first sign of a leak.  Single skin oil tanks that are over 10 years old are more prone to leaking.  If your oil tank is leaking you should switch off your boiler and turn off the oil. If the fuel line is damaged, then by isolating the flow of oil, you will stop the leak.

“Identifying and fixing any damage to your tank as early as possible before the damage escalates is vital.  Depending on the amount of oil that has escaped from the tank will determine the extent of the damage.  Homeowners should be aware that not all policy’s cover oil spillage as standard and those that do will likely have exclusions or financial limits.  Oil spillages often leave homes inhabitable while remedial work is carried out.  With such high stakes we urge homeowners to regularly inspect their oil tanks for damage and service their tank annually to reduce the risk of a leak.”

In the unfortunate event where you need to make an oil spillage claim, contact Gullion Ltd Loss Assessors and Surveyors on 028 3082 8838. Regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland and authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority we will negotiate the best settlement on your behalf to ensure you achieve your full entitlement, under the terms and conditions of your policy.  To reduce stress and streamline your claim, restoration works is an optional extra service which we also provide.

Gullion Ltd – you’re number one choice for insurance claims.  For more, Gullion Ltd can also be found on Facebook, Google, YouTube and Twitter.

-ends-