Phase 1 and 2
Environmental Site Assessments
Phase 1 Site Assessments
If you’re considering purchasing real estate and need to conduct a Phase 1 environmental site assessment (ESA) you have come to the right place. A Phase I ESA is an essential element of obtaining bona fide protective purchaser (BFPP) protection under the federal Superfund Act. Choosing the right environmental consultant for the job is key.
Find A Reputable ESA FirmWhat should I look for in an environmental consultant?
When requesting quotes for service, you may want to ask the potential consultant about their firms:
A Phase 1 ESA that conforms to the appropriate level of “due diligence” as specified in ASTM-E-1527-13 includes the following:
– Database/records review of all available sources in federal, state, county, and municipal records of recognized environmental conditions.
– Historical land use research.
– Site inspection including surrounding properties.
– Interview with the property owner, occupants, and possible neighbors.
– Obtaining any previous Phase 1 ESA, Business Plans, Permits, or any other documents that may have environmental significance.
– Photographs of property and surrounding property.
– Geologic characteristic of property, soils, surface, and groundwater (i.e. 7.5-minute topographic maps).
– Aerial photographs and Sanborn Maps as available.
– Other relevant documents such as tax maps, title records, zoning, and land use records, building department records (as reasonably available).
– Records review of environmental records at county and state level (NEW)
– A comprehensive report outlining findings of all above items.
– The comprehensive Phase I ESA Report will identify all known or suspected hazardous material or petroleum product releases with recommendations for sampling/testing and analysis (referred to as Phase II).
Phase II provides recommendations when the previous phase 1 ESA has been completed. A Phase II collects soil, groundwater, or surface water for sampling/testing and analysis.