This is what home owners and home buyers wish to avoid. For full story, see http://www.nj.com/mercer/index.ssf/2009/10/tank_removal_project_leads_to.html
My view for best practice for home resales, the contract of sale should contain a clause regarding the existence of an underground tank and that it has been removed or abandoned legally. Here in Nassau County, all tank removals and abandonments are recorded on a county database and a record can be obtained through the Health Department by calling (516) 227-9691.