Choosing the next step

Oil tank records or a tank sweep: which question comes first?

Records investigate documented history. A physical survey investigates present conditions. Choose the next action by the unresolved question, not by assuming one replaces the other.

Source-backed guidance
Reviewed Sep 16, 2026

Before you search

Start with the right identifiers.

Known tank status, existing paperwork, the specific concern, prior search or survey results, transaction deadline, and the property address.

Bring what you have. Missing identifiers can be part of the route review.

If the gap is paperwork, locate the file

When a known removal is missing its documentation, research can target permits and completion records. Maplewood's removal-certificate record category is one concrete example. A focused request may clarify what the issuer recorded without ordering unrelated work.

Official sourceMaplewood removal-certificate record category

If the gap is physical presence, name that limit

An empty online search cannot establish whether an unrecorded tank is on the property. Westchester's PBS map, for example, describes a dated subset of facilities. Where location or presence remains the question, discuss an appropriately scoped physical investigation with a qualified professional.

Official sourceWestchester historic PBS map coverage

If timing is tight, separate parallel tracks

Our action list distinguishes records still pending from decisions that need professional input now. A tank report can add documentary history, as NYC's FDNY route illustrates, but research does not replace an inspection or an urgent response. Share the actual deadline at intake so open agency requests remain visible.

Official sourceNYC tank-specific record route

Make the request specific

A ready-to-adapt outline.

The unresolved question is [historic work / physical presence / conflicting documents]. Existing evidence is [list]. Please identify the records that address the historic portion and the gaps that remain outside record research.

Replace the bracketed fields and follow the agency’s current form, disclosure, and fee instructions. This is a draft, not a sent request.

Keep the limits visible.

Oil, strong odor, or suspected active leakage should leave this research workflow for the official safety route. Research is not an emergency service or a tank-free certification.

Active leak or strong oil odor? Use the safety route. ↗

Start a property record check

Start with
what you know.

Send the property and your question. First, we confirm whether we can help and which records to pursue. You do not need an existing file to get started.

Cost: Free during the founder-led beta. Any agency fees are identified separately before a paid request.
First response: Initial route review target: 2 business days—not a final report deadline.
Your records: Private intake. No public case pages.

We confirm the scope and any request authorization before agency outreach. Agency timing varies; a record may be unavailable. Research is not a safety certification or legal opinion.

Free betaInitial route review target: within 2 business daysAgency response times may extend the final timeline.

Which property?

Property address State County or municipality

What would you like to know?

Your role Known tank status Primary question Transaction deadline Already have documents?

Where should we follow up?

Attach records Optional · up to 3 PDF, JPG, or PNG files · 8 MB each · 20 MB totalPermit pages, closure letters, inspection sheets, seller disclosures, or screenshots are useful. Files stay in the private case workspace. Email What is unclear? Optional

Your address and email are used to research and respond to this request. They are not sent to GA4 events. When email delivery is available, you will receive a receipt number for follow-up.