Phase I & Phase II Environmental Site Assessments

Phase I & Phase II Environmental Site Assessments

A Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (Phase I ESA) is an integral component of most commercial and industrial real estate transactions, and identifies potential or existing environmental contamination liabilities. The analysis typically addresses both the underlying land as well as physical improvements to the property. The process involves a physical site visitation and detailed examination by a qualified environmental professional, a thorough review of local governmental documents regarding the past usage of the site, and an extensive document review of the surrounding area.

Potential risks can be anything from a past gas station on or near the site that might have contaminated the soil and/or ground water to a dry cleaner on the site that might have spilled chemicals into the ground. There could have been past dumping on the site or an auto repair that did not handle the oils properly, lead in the paint, asbestos, and on and on.

Actual sampling of soil, air, groundwater and/or building materials is typically not conducted during a Phase I ESA, which is generally considered the first step in the process of environmental due diligence for a site. Standards for performing a Phase I site assessment have been promulgated by the US Environmental Protection Agency and are based in part on the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) in Standard E1527-05.

If a site is considered to be contaminated, a Phase II Environmental Site Assessment may be conducted in compliance with ASTM test E1903, a more detailed investigation involving chemical analysis for hazardous substances and/or petroleum hydrocarbons.[citation needed]

aes has performed hundreds of Phase I and II ESAs throughout the mid-Atlantic region, offering competitive pricing, professional results, and rapid turnarounds to meet your milestones. aes is an approved consultant for many area financial institutions, ensuring that both our clients and their lenders may rely on our work products.