Environmental Site Assessments (ESA) - Due Diligence
A Phase I ESA is performed to determine the presence of a recognized environmental condition (REC) as defined by ASTM Practice E 1527-05 Environmental Site Assessments and to ascertain the extent of liability associated with historic or current uses of the subject or surrounding properties and the potential negative environmental impact to the subject property. The investigation includes a visual inspection of the subject property and adjacent areas; search of historical aerial photographs; a review of prior businesses or industries which may have occupied the property; a review of environmental agency files for information relative to the property and surrounding vicinity; consultation with appropriate Federal, State, and local agencies; and interviews of knowledgeable persons. The Phase I ESA Report will provide the client with a comprehensive evaluation that satisfies legislative requirements and the most current guidelines. The Report will include the results of the investigation, supporting documentation, color photographs, and recommendations for additional assessment, if necessary. In the instance that additional assessment is recommended, MartinEnviro provides continuing service to address potential environmental concerns.
A Phase II ESA is conducted to generate additional information regarding the quantification and identification and nature of potential contaminants associated with the presence of a REC and to ascertain the extent of liability associated with historic or current uses of the subject or surrounding properties and the related potential negative environmental impacts to the subject property. Methodology for a Phase II ESA is provided by ASTM Practice E 1903 Standard Guide for Phase II Environmental Site Assessments. The characterization of soil and groundwater at the site may be performed through traditional methods such as monitoring wells and soil borings, or more advanced technologies such as soil gas analysis, magnetometer surveys, or site screening with a Flame Ionization Detector (FID) or Photo Ionization Detector (PID). The results of the Phase II investigation will confirm or disprove the presence of contamination based upon the parameters suspected at each specific site. A Phase II ESA may be used as the first step in constructing a site specific contamination assessment and remedial action plan to provide necessary information in a transactional process that allows the client to make an informed business decision. |
