Living in a home with a propane tank can be a new experience, and it comes with a unique set of questions and responsibilities. As a renter, it's essential to understand the ins and outs of your propane tank to ensure a safe and smooth living experience. Here's a guide to the most common questions you should ask.

1. Who Actually Owns the Propane Tank?

This is the most critical question to ask. The tank on your property isn't always owned by your landlord. It's often the property of a specific propane supplier.

• If the landlord owns the tank: This is excellent news! It gives you the freedom to shop around for the best price from any propane supplier.
• If a propane company owns the tank: You are typically required to use that specific company for all your propane needs. Be sure to check your lease for any rental or lease fees associated with the tank. This arrangement also means the propane company is responsible for the tank's maintenance and safety.

2. What Are My Responsibilities as a Renter?

Your lease agreement is your best friend here. It should clearly outline who is responsible for what, but here are the key areas to clarify:

• Payment: Who is responsible for paying for the propane itself? What about tank rental fees or delivery charges? Get all of this in writing.
• Safety: While the tank owner handles major maintenance, you are responsible for day-to-day safety. Know how to shut off the gas in an emergency and be able to recognize the signs of a leak.
• Emergency Procedures: Keep the emergency contact numbers for your propane supplier and the local fire department (911) handy. Know that if you smell a leak, you must evacuate immediately, avoid all ignition sources (including light switches and phones), and call for help from a safe distance.

3. Understanding Propane Costs and Fees

Propane pricing can be confusing, so knowing how the costs are structured is good.

• Per-Gallon Pricing: The price of the propane you use is charged per gallon.
• Annual Rental Fee: If you are leasing a tank from a supplier, there is typically a single annual rental fee, which can range from $50 to $250 or more. This fee helps the company cover the costs of the tank's acquisition, installation, and maintenance.
• Minimum Usage Requirements: Propane companies that own tanks often have a minimum annual usage requirement. This is because they make their profit from the sale of propane, not from the minimal rental fee. If this minimum is not met—perhaps due to a warmer winter—the person whose name is on the propane company's account is contractually obligated to pay the fee.

Who pays the annual fee if you don't meet the minimum gallons? This depends on whose name is on the propane company account. If you, the renter, set up the account, you are responsible. If the landlord has the account, they will receive the bill, and whether they can pass that cost to you depends on what's written in your lease.

4. What Do I Need to Do When I Move Out?

Moving out is a hectic time, and you don't want to be hit with unexpected propane charges.

• Check Your Lease for Minimum Levels: The lease should state whether you need to leave the tank at a specific level (e.g., "leave it at the same level as move-in" or "leave it full"). To avoid disputes, document the tank's level when you first move in.
• The 20% Rule: It's a best practice for all propane users—and especially renters—to order a refill when your tank gauge reads about 20-30% full. Running the tank completely empty is a big no-no. It can trigger a mandatory safety inspection by a certified technician, which is a service call that comes with a fee and can be passed on to you or the next tenant.

By asking these questions and understanding your responsibilities, you can ensure your propane usage is safe and your move-out process is hassle-free.

Protecting Your Propane Tank & Your Pocket

Navigating a rental with propane is straightforward as long as you know your responsibilities and the right questions to ask. Whether you're settling in or preparing to move out, understanding your responsibilities can save you time, money, and stress.

Want an easy way to protect your propane setup from pests and weather damage? Check out our 500-Gallon Propane Tank Dome Seal for a simple, effective upgrade to your tank’s dome cover.

Stay safe, stay informed, and keep your tank in top shape.