Sometimes an effective Health Risk Assessment (HRA) can be conducted, which can actually reduce the total cost of the remedy. The HRA can put a realistic limit on necessary cleanup criteria, based upon the presence of sensitive receptors near the existing or predicted future plume of contamination.

Cleanup Funding

In many states, there are grant funding mechanisms in place to reimburse property owners for most, and sometimes all of the costs of petroleum contamination from underground storage tanks. The two funds available in California are the California Underground Storage Tank Cleanup Fund and the Orphan Site Cleanup Account (OSCA). The funding mechanism is from a per gallon tax placed on every gallon of fuel.

OSCA is specifically available for sites where the owner or operator of the contaminated property is not responsible for the contamination and the responsible party cannot be found. OSCA will reimburse costs for tank removal, and there are no deductibles. One unique aspect of OSCA is that even a prospective purchaser can request funding if they are under contract to purchase and guarantee to purchase.

In addition, under Federal brownfields legislation (see below) there are funding mechanisms available for certain urban infill developments where contamination is the cause of underutilization of the site. The program was designed specifically for governments and non-profit organizations. However, private developers can arrange joint ventures with governments and claim brownfields grants.