FOR NEW YORK HOMEOWNERS WITH OIL TANKS

From the NYS AG:

"The Oil Spill Law, enacted in 1977, provides that anyone who discharges petroleum without a permit - even a very small amount - is "strictly liable" (liable without regard to fault) for all cleanup and removal costs. As a result, the owner of the oil tank from which the oil spilled or leaked - such as the homeowner whose heating oil tank leaks - may be required to pay for the cleanup regardless of whether the homeowner's actions "caused" the spill or leak. "

For a full discussion, see http://www.ag.ny.gov/environmental/oil-spill/introduction