When the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection discovered a discharge of fuel, septic tank material, or another fluid on a property, they typically assign a case number. This designation indicates that the property needs to be brought back into compliance comply with the NJDEP technical requirements for a contaminated site.
Professional Tank Testing And Environmental Assessment
The severity of the problem will directly influence the measures needed to restore compliance with the contaminated site. Hydroscience Group has a team of highly trained and experienced inspectors who can assess the problems with an above ground or underground storage tank to determine the extent of the problem to the tank.
Our scope of service also includes testing and assessing the site to gauge the environmental impact of the compromised tank or a spilled material. This typically includes testing the groundwater as well as the soil.
In some cases, like a compromised Underground Heating Oil Tank, the NJDEP requires testing and inspection from a licensed professional such as the specialists at Hydroscience Group.
Once we have thoroughly assessed the extent of the problem we will present you with the necessary remediation strategy to restore compliance with the NJDEP.
Residential And Commercial Service
Hydroscience Group has extensive experience with both residential and commercial properties that have soil or groundwater contamination issues. The standards, regulations, and insurance policies that pertain to these issues have changed a little over the years, yet much of the closure process remains essentially the same.
Our specialists pay close attention to all factors of the remediation and closure process to ensure that every facet meets regulatory compliance.
A Comprehensive Approach To The Soil And Groundwater Remediation Process
The first phase of the remediation process starts with what is called with a plume delineation. This is designed to clearly outline the extent of both the vertical and horizontal contamination in the soil layers. It also helps to effectively determine what, if any impact has been made to the existing groundwater. This can also help to assess the environmental impact if the area is prone to seasonal changes in groundwater levels.
This phase of the process is especially important for times when a fuel release may have impacted the groundwater table. The NJDEP typically requires this type of documentation for final closure and analysis.
The second phase of the process calls for analyzing the data to generate a highly accurate blueprint or map of the contamination. Hydroscience Group’s specialists can explain all these factors to you as part of presenting you with the most effective remediation strategy.
We recognize that no two contamination events are exactly the same. A customized approach helps ensure that the entirety of the event is accounted for and that all aspects of regulatory compliance are properly addressed.
Throughout this phase, we will create a break down of the various processes, the materials, equipment, and the time frame involved. All of these factors will then be presented to you as part of a comprehensive budget analysis.
How Do You Pay For Remediation?
Some insurance policies for residential and commercial properties might include coverage for a contamination event. In fact, there are some commercial property insurance policies that require it to be included, for certain types of construction, or a company that needs to store fuel or industrial chemicals on site.
This isn’t always the case with some single family, residential homeowner’s insurance policies. However, it is still worth a phone call to your agent to see if there is some level of coverage in place. Some premium policies might even have a high percentage of coverage, especially if an existing tank was noted in the disclosure process when you purchased the property.
Other insurance factors could vary depending on the length of time you have been with the carrier, time-sensitive provisions in your policy, or other liability issues. Hydroscience Group’s specialists can help guide you and any other third parties through the process, to ensure that you get the maximum amount you are entitled to from your insurance policy.
In many cases, where coverage is not provided by insurance or some other type of legal covenant, there might be public assistance programs available. Sometimes The New Jersey Economic Development Authority, or NJEDA, can work alongside the NJDEP to provide financial assistance to property owners who are attempting to comply with contaminated site regulations.
Our specialists can help guide you through this process apply for and be reviewed for financial assistance on a needs basis. Please note that Hydroscience Group has no bearing on determining whether or not our clients will be awarded a grant or loan.
How Long Does The Remediation Process Take?
At Hydroscience Group we understand that with most soil and groundwater contamination incidents, that time is of the essence. In some cases, the NJDEP might completely stop commercial operations until the contaminated site is compliant. Even in a residential case, a prolonged contamination event can incur additional costs and liability issues.
We pride ourselves at being able to deploy our services quickly throughout our service area. This might include things like:
- Emergency repairs
- Diversion techniques
- Expedited permits
- Thorough documentation
- Coordination with municipal organizations
- Scheduling timely service
Safety Always Comes First
At Hydroscience Group, safety always comes first. It’s especially important when it comes to commercial contamination sites, where fuel or dangerous chemicals may be involved. Our technicians are meticulous in executing your service plan with respect to protecting people, facilities, and equipment, as well as the surrounding environment.
Ensuring Proper Disposal
When soil and other on-site materials are contaminated, they often need to be removed. We have extensive experience in these situations and access to the proper disposal or treatment methods.
Compliance And Documentation
The NJDEP and organizations at the local and federal level typically require documentation to ensure that every aspect of the site is once again in full compliance. This process might also include things like follow up inspections and site scans.
Hydroscience Group can handle every aspect of the compliance and documentation process as part of our soil and groundwater remediation service. We also archive each event to make sure that you can access the necessary documents, should you need them in the future.
