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Converse Consultants

Underground Storage Tank Compliance Services with Converse Consultants

When it comes to managing environmental compliance and minimizing operational risks associated with underground storage tanks (USTs), businesses need a trusted, experienced, and cost-conscious partner. Converse Consultants brings over three decades of experience to the table, helping companies across industries stay in compliance with complex regulations governing underground storage tanks.

At Converse, our goal isn’t to preach about environmentalism—it’s to help businesses navigate compliance in the most efficient and cost-effective manner. We understand that you have operations to run and a bottom line to meet. That’s why we focus on providing smart solutions to keep your underground fuel storage tanks and underground water storage tanks in line with federal, state, and local regulations while helping you manage costs and avoid potential liabilities.

The Risk and Responsibility of Underground Storage Tanks

According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), approximately 550,000 underground storage tanks are currently in use across the country. These tanks, which often contain petroleum or other hazardous substances, pose a significant risk if not properly maintained. The most common threats include groundwater contamination and vapor intrusion, both of which can result in costly remediation efforts and potential liability.

Underground storage tanks are an essential component of many commercial, industrial, and municipal operations. However, when improperly maintained or overlooked, these assets can become liabilities. A leaking UST can lead to years of expensive litigation, cleanup obligations, and reputational damage. Proactively managing your UST systems with Converse Consultants mitigates these risks and protects your investment.

Comprehensive Underground Storage Tank Services

Converse has been working with underground storage tank systems since the late 1980s, right around the time federal regulations surrounding USTs were first established. Over the years, we have successfully closed hundreds of UST cases, from residential heating oil tanks to large-scale fuel terminals.

Our underground storage tank services include:
• UST Removal & Closure Assessment: Whether you’re upgrading your facility or decommissioning a tank, Converse offers safe, efficient removal and closure assessment to meet compliance standards and prevent future liabilities. Our team conducts soil sampling, prepares closure reports, and coordinates with regulatory agencies to provide proper documentation and closure.
• Subsurface Geophysical Surveys: Using radar and metal detecting equipment, our geophysical surveys identify buried tanks and anomalies that may not be visible at the surface. This service is especially valuable during property development or acquisition phases, allowing owners and investors to make informed decisions before taking on potential environmental liabilities.
• Site Investigation & Remediation: If contamination is suspected or confirmed, our team of experienced geologists, engineers, and environmental scientists perform investigations and develop tailored remediation plans. We utilize innovative remediation techniques such as soil vapor extraction, bioremediation, and in-situ chemical oxidation to address contamination efficiently.
• State Petroleum Fund Enrollment & Reimbursement: Converse has extensive experience working with state petroleum fund programs. We help clients enroll and navigate the reimbursement process for eligible costs related to UST removal, investigation, and cleanup. Our understanding of fund rules and documentation requirements provides maximum eligible cost recovery.
• Review of Compliance & Corrective Action Cases: Our professionals conduct thorough reviews of compliance and corrective action cases, so you’re not exposed to unnecessary risks or overlooked regulatory issues. We support clients in preparing response plans, negotiating with agencies, and resolving legacy issues tied to underground fuel storage tanks.
• Risk-Based Corrective Action Closures: When contamination is discovered, we evaluate the actual risk to human health and the environment. We apply for site closures using risk-based corrective action strategies that satisfy regulators while minimizing the scope and cost of remediation. This approach provides significant cost savings compared to more conservative remediation approaches.

Serving a Broad Range of Properties and Industries

Underground storage tanks aren’t limited to just gasoline stations. You’ll find them at municipal yards, commercial developments, industrial sites, and even residential properties. Regardless of the location or purpose of your storage tanks underground, Converse is equipped to handle it.

We serve a wide variety of clients, including:
• Gas stations and convenience store operators
• Municipal governments and public works departments
• Industrial and manufacturing facilities
• Utility companies
• Airports and transportation hubs
• Residential property owners and HOAs

Common causes of UST failures include corrosion of tanks and piping, improper installation, poor maintenance, accidental punctures during construction, and spills during fuel deliveries. With these risks in mind, Converse helps clients proactively manage their systems, detect problems early, and respond swiftly to any incidents.

We understand the operational constraints and budget limitations many businesses face. Our team adapts our scope and methods to meet your site-specific conditions, whether you operate a small retail fuel station or a complex multi-tank industrial operation.

Supporting Real Estate Transactions and Property Development

Often during real estate transactions, potential buyers and lenders require assessment of underground storage tanks to ensure there are no environmental liabilities attached to the property. Converse provides expert UST system assessments, ensuring clients can make informed decisions during acquisitions, developments, or refinancing activities.

We also assist developers and property owners in obtaining site closure documentation, navigating environmental permitting, and coordinating with local and state regulators. Our due diligence services include Phase I and Phase II Environmental Site Assessments (ESAs), which frequently incorporate evaluations of underground fuel storage tanks and other environmental hazards.

We also offer:
• Historical property record reviews
• Geophysical scanning for undocumented USTs
• Soil and groundwater testing for legacy contamination
• Expert witness support in property transactions and disputes

A Cost-Effective Approach to Compliance

Our clients appreciate that Converse is a pro-business partner. We don’t come in with a heavy-handed, one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, we work with you to understand your business objectives, site conditions, and regulatory obligations. From there, we craft practical strategies that prioritize compliance without breaking the bank.

Whether you’re dealing with underground fuel storage tanks at an industrial facility or underground water storage tanks for municipal use, Converse is here to simplify the process and offer peace of mind.

Why Choose Converse Consultants for UST Services?

• Decades of Experience: Since the late 1980s, we’ve been on the forefront of underground storage tank services.
• Regulatory Expertise: We know how to speak the language of regulators, and we’ll help you meet compliance requirements while keeping your business goals in mind.
• Technical Excellence: Our team of geologists, engineers, and environmental professionals uses the latest technologies and methodologies to deliver reliable results.
• Client-Focused Solutions: Every site is unique. We tailor our approach to match your needs, schedule, and budget.
• End-to-End Services: From discovery and investigation to closure and reimbursement, we handle the entire lifecycle of underground storage tanks.
• Industry Versatility: Our clients include oil and gas companies, utilities, real estate developers, transportation firms, and government agencies.
• Cost-Conscious Mindset: We understand the importance of balancing compliance with budget constraints. Our solutions are designed to be both effective and affordable.

Obligation-Free Estimates and Trusted Advice

Not sure where to begin? Converse Consultants offers obligation-free estimates for UST services. We’ll take the time to assess your needs, answer your questions, and provide a clear plan of action. Whether you need a simple tank removal or comprehensive remediation, you can trust Converse to deliver.

We’re not just a vendor—we’re your strategic partner in managing environmental compliance and minimizing risk. From start to finish, our team is accessible, informed, and fully invested in your success.

Take the Next Step

If your business relies on underground storage tanks, it’s not a matter of if you’ll need expert support—it’s when. Stay ahead of the curve by partnering with Converse Consultants. We provide the practical, cost-effective UST services that businesses need to remain compliant and successful.

Let us help you protect your investment, stay compliant, and plan for the future. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and learn how Converse can help you manage your storage tanks underground with confidence. Whether you're in the early stages of planning or facing an urgent compliance issue, our team is ready to respond with solutions tailored to your business needs.

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