GeoCiv performs Phase I Environmental Site Assessments by qualified staff, with each Phase 1 ESA led by an environmental professional with a minimum of 8 years’ experience.
GeoCiv completes Phase I ESA’s according to several program standards, including:
- ASTM Standard Practice E1527-21
- All Appropriate Inquiry 40 CFR Part 312
- SBA SOP 50 10 5 (C)
- Specific Lender Requirements
GeoCiv specializes in quality assessments with timely and cost-effective completion. A typical Phase I ESA consists of: reviewing historical information, environmental records research, mapping research, site reconnaissance, inspections and interviews.
Why is a Phase 1 ESA needed?
Prospective buyers will complete a Phase I to assure they are not purchasing a property that has an unacceptable risk of environmental liability. Lenders require a Phase I to protect their investment.
What is a Phase 1 Environmental Site Assessment (ESA)?
A Phase 1 ESA is an assessment of a portion of commercial real estate to determine its potential for contamination by hazardous substances or petroleum products. A typical Phase One Report will allow a buyer or lender to make an informed decision as to the potential environmental risk associated with the purchase of the property. ASTM E1527 sets the standard for what constitutes an environmental risk or “recognized environmental condition” (REC). A REC is defined by the ASTM standard E1527-21 as: “the presence or likely presence of any hazardous substances or petroleum products in, on, or at a property: (1) due to any release to the environment; (2) under conditions indicative of a release to the environment; or (3) under conditions that pose a material threat of a future release to the environment.”
What is the purpose of a Phase I ESA?
The purpose of a Phase I ESA is to obtain necessary information to develop an independent professional judgement about the environmental condition of a property and to identify actual or potential environmental contamination which may impact a property’s value. Completion of a Phase One Report will also allow the user to satisfy one of the requirements to qualify for the landowner liability protection (innocent landowner defense) from CERCLA liability.
What type of properties do not generally require a Phase I ESA?
A Phase I ESA is typically completed for commercial properties. Residential properties generally will not need a Phase One Site Assessment, unless there are special conditions, for example spills on the property, underground storage tanks, or adjacent to a property with a known or suspected environmental contamination.
When is a Phase II ESA needed?
A Phase II ESA is an invasive investigation that obtains soils samples, groundwater samples and/or building material samples to analyze. A Phase 2 ESA is typically performed when a Phase I ESA determines a likelihood of site contamination.
Contact our team now to discuss completing your Phase I or II ESA. 256-601-7228