Oil tank and septic system issues on the radar in Nova Scotia

Nova Scotia’s Environment Minister Sterling Belliveau recently announced that the province is expanding its Environmental Home Assessment Program. Families who need to replace their oil tanks will receive up to $1000 to purchase a tank, based on income. Homeowners with septic problems will receive up to $3000 to repair or replace their systems. The funding, totaling $1.5 million, will be available next spring. Nova Scotia has about 200,000 domestic oil tanks and 45 per cent of homes in the province use septic systems.

“Oil heat is safe and reliable, but homeowners need to be sure their oil tank is well maintained and replaced in a timely way,” said Sylvain Villeneuve, vice-president of Vilco, which manufactures fibreglass oil tanks in Waverley, NS. “Not only will this funding help families avoid costly oil spills, it supports Nova Scotia jobs through installers and tank manufacturing companies like Vilco.”

Debbie Jamieson, executive director of the Canadian Oil Heat Association’s (COHA) Nova Scotia chapter, said they believe oil leaks can be prevented. “Oil heat customers today have a number of proven choices, including tanks made entirely of non-corrosive material and improved double-bottom steel tanks,” said Jamieson. “We encourage oil heat customers to consider these safer storage options and as importantly, ensure the tank is installed by a trained, qualified professional.”

Homeowner’s can request a free home visit to discuss well water, septic systems and oil tanks through the Environmental Home Assessment Program.  Visit www.gov.ns.ca/nse/hap/ for more information.