What is a Phase I environmental site assessment?
A Phase I environmental site assessment (ESA) is a report prepared for real estate holdings. It identifies potential or existing environmental contamination liabilities. Additionally, the purpose of a Phase I ESA is to avoid legal liability for pre-existing contamination.
Peace Environmental constructs reports that meet and, in many cases, exceed the requirements listed in ASTM E1527-21.
Under CERCLA, landowners are liable for any pre-existing contamination, even if they are not the cause of it.
A Phase I ESA is generally considered to be the first step in the process of environmental due diligence. The results of a Phase I ESA determine if sampling and additional investigation are necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What kind of information is in a Phase I ESA?
The basic components of a Phase I ESA include:
- A visual site inspection
- Interviews with anyone who may have relevant information about the site
- A review of property records, which typically includes:
- Chain of title review
- Examination of surrounding land use
- Review of any existing aerial photography records
- A search of agency records
- Completion of a comprehensive report
