What are underground storage tanks and why do they matter in real estate?

Underground storage tanks, or USTs, are containers buried beneath the ground surface that hold petroleum products or hazardous substances. Leaking underground storage tanks can contaminate soil and groundwater, creating serious environmental liability for property owners. The EPA regulates USTs under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, requiring registration, leak detection, spill prevention, and financial responsibility for cleanup. Properties with current or former gas stations, auto repair shops, industrial uses, and farms commonly have USTs.