No one wants to buy a building and then discover it sits on a polluted site. An Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) reduces the risk of this nightmare. It also protects you from the serious legal and financial liabilities that pollution can create.
The need for an ESA depends on two factors. First, how likely is it that someone will discover pollution? Second, how much risk is the investor willing to accept? For example, if a gas station or dry cleaner sits on the site, an ESA is essential. Even if the buyer skips the assessment, the lender will almost certainly insist on one. Where environmental risks appear minimal, an ESA still provides peace of mind. Some investors value that more highly than others.
Comprehensive and Professional
Like every Criterium-Hanna service, our Phase I Environmental Site Assessment is comprehensive and professional. Highly qualified, experienced engineers perform each assessment according to national (ASTM) standards. The assessment includes a visual inspection of the site. In addition, we research past and current uses that might have created environmental hazards. During the physical inspection, we look for evidence of:
- Storage or handling of hazardous materials
- Emission, storage or disposal of hazardous waste
- Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs)
- Above-ground or underground storage tanks
- Storage drums or unidentified containers
- Stained soil
- Wells, septic systems, drains, sumps, pits, ponds or lagoons
Reviewing the Records
Our research includes a review of relevant local, state, and federal public records. We also interview occupants, owners, neighbors, and selected local officials. This research identifies current and prior uses of the property and surrounding properties. As a result, we can spot anything that might affect the property’s environmental risk profile.
Sometimes a Phase I ESA can’t confirm or rule out suspected pollution. In that case, we will recommend a more invasive Phase II inspection. Criterium-Hanna Engineers doesn’t perform these inspections, but we coordinate them for our clients.
At Criterium-Hanna Engineers, we are careful with our clients’ budgets. That’s why we never recommend services you don’t need. However, we take our duty to flag environmental risks seriously. With the right information, you can make informed investment decisions. You can also take the right steps to reduce your risk.
Want to arrange an Environmental Site Assessment? Or not sure whether you need one? Contact Criterium-Hanna Engineers today. We’ll provide a thorough ESA if you need it, and an honest answer if you don’t.