Why do I need a site assessment?

Environmental site assessments are typically conducted as part of the “due diligence” process designed to assist clients in understanding the environmental risks associated with properties. Recently, the risks of environmental site contamination have become an issue to anyone buying, selling or financing property. Due to past and present land use practices, some sites have been or are becoming contaminated. Contamination on a site presents major concerns and possible liabilities for the buyer, seller and lender.

To reduce this risk, it has become necessary to undertake Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (E.S.A.) to determine the actual or potential environmental site contamination.

A Phase I ESA is a preliminary assessment by which the assessor determines if a specific property is or may be subject to contamination from past or present site uses and adjacent land use. The assessment combines both on-site and desktop studies to understand potential liabilities associated with a property.

The scope of the Phase I ESA consists of a very detailed review of historical property use, land title records, occupancy records, aerial photographs, city directories, fire insurance maps, and mandatory regulatory searches. Geology, Hydrology and Topography are analyzed to determine potential environmental hazards associated with the property or adjacent sites. A visual inspection of the site and surrounding properties, including identification of any liquid or chemical storage, P.C.B.s, A.C.M.s, lead or other designated substances, spills or soil and building contamination. Interviews are conducted with persons knowing the past and present site activities. A report is then prepared by the assessor based on the investigation findings. W.A. Environmental Services Ltd. conducts Phase I ESA in accordance with the Canadian Standards Association (C.S.A.) Standard Z768-01.

A Phase I ESA does not include sample gathering, laboratory testing, or intrusive investigation of a property. Where the potential for contamination has been identified, a Phase II ESA would be recommended for the site.

At WA Environmental Services Ltd, we pride ourselves on completing assessments rapidly, efficiently and to a high standard using innovative technologies and qualified personnel. We have a nationally certified Environmental Site Assessor (C.E.S.A.) on staff to conduct your Phase I ESA and assist you with your due diligence process.