Massachusetts Real Estate License Practice Test

What is required when a leaking underground storage tank is discovered?

1. Immediate removal of the tank only

2. Report to the local fire chief and regulatory agencies

3. No action is required if it is not harmful

4. Notification of all tenants in the area

The correct answer is: Report to the local fire chief and regulatory agencies

When a leaking underground storage tank is discovered, the requirement is to report to the local fire chief and regulatory agencies. This is critical because leaks from underground storage tanks can lead to significant environmental hazards, including soil and groundwater contamination. Immediate notification allows for the appropriate authorities to assess the situation, mitigate risks, and implement necessary clean-up efforts to protect public health and the environment. In this context, while immediate removal of the tank might seem like a necessary action, it cannot be done without first informing the relevant authorities and assessing the leak. Simply not taking any action if the leak is perceived as not harmful disregards the potential ecological and health risks associated with petroleum contaminants. Furthermore, while notifying tenants might be considerate, it does not fulfill the legal obligation to report such incidents to regulatory bodies, which is essential for ensuring safety and compliance with environmental regulations.