A groundwater investigation is the process of testing water beneath your property to determine if contamination has reached the groundwater from an oil tank leak or other source. In New Jersey, this work must follow NJDEP Site Remediation Program regulations. Oak Environmental uses temporary or permanent monitoring wells to collect samples for laboratory testing.

Groundwater testing is required whenever there is evidence that a heating oil leak may have migrated below the soil. The NJDEP mandates this testing to ensure protection of public health, private wells, and the surrounding environment.

Testing involves:

1. Installing a temporary or permanent monitoring well in your yard.

2. Collecting water samples from the well.

3. Sending samples to a certified laboratory for analysis of petroleum-related compounds.

4. Submitting results in an NJDEP-compliant report.

Oak Environmental’ s licensed professionals ensure all testing and reporting meets state standards.

If contamination is detected, the NJDEP requires a remedial investigation and action plan. Depending on severity, this may include:

• Soil excavation and replacement

• Groundwater monitoring over time

• Pump-and-treat systems or other cleanup technologies

• Vapor intrusion evaluation if indoor air could be impacted

Oak Environmental prepares a defensible NJDEP submission and manages remediation until a Response Action Outcome (RAO) or No Further Action (NFA) letter is issued.

Generally, buyers and lenders require proof that an NJDEP-approved remediation plan is in place. While some transactions can move forward during remediation, an open case without an NFA/RAO often reduces property value. Oak Environmental works with lenders, attorneys, and buyers to protect your transaction.

Cleanup duration depends on contamination severity.

• Minor impacts: a few months with limited excavation and monitoring.

• Moderate to severe impacts: one to three years of monitoring and treatment.

Oak Environmental accelerates closure by working directly with NJDEP and ensuring all technical submissions are accurate and complete.

Most groundwater testing and remediation requires only small work areas for well installation. Oak Environmental minimizes disruption, restores impacted areas, and keeps homeowners informed throughout the process.

For over 20 years, Oak Environmental has guided New Jersey property owners through NJDEP compliance. We provide:

• Licensed Site Remediation Professionals (LSRPs) with deep NJDEP expertise

• Transparent cost estimates and timelines

• Lender- and attorney-ready documentation

• Defensible reports that protect property value and limit liability

Our mission is to deliver clear answers, fast results, and peace of mind for homeowners.