An environmental assessment, including Phase I and Phase II Environmental Assessments, is a key component of many property evaluations. These investigations establish the baseline conditions of a property so that the new owner cannot be held liable for preexisting environmental issues. They also uncover environmental risk factors that may require remediation.
Phase I Environmental Assessment
Phase I Environmental Site Assessments (ESAs) are performed in accordance with the EPA All Appropriate Inquiry (AAI) Rule and . These guidelines are straightforward standards that allow us to identify potential environmental liability. We do this by assessing the current and historical use of the property and adjoining properties. Phase I investigations include several steps:
- Historical property records review and land-use research
- Interviews with current and previous owners and occupants
- Site inspection and review of current property operations and conditions
- Regulatory environmental records, file, and database reviews
- Level 1 vapor encroachment and intrusion assessments
- Identification of Recognized Environmental Conditions (RECs), Historical RECs (HRECs) and Controlled RECs (CRECs) or other conditions indicative of potential environmental impact and financial liability
- Opinions and recommendations regarding the findings of the assessment
Phase II Environmental Assessment
Based upon the results of the Phase I assessment, further evaluation may be recommended. If necessary, our Due Diligence and Assessment Department will begin a Phase II environmental site assessment. The investigation will include sampling and laboratory analysis to confirm the presence or absence of hazardous materials in the site’s subsurface.
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