What is typically included in a Phase I Environmental Site Assessment?

A Phase I Environmental Site Assessment primarily aims to identify potential environmental contamination in relationship to the property being assessed. A critical component of this assessment is a thorough review of the property’s historical usage. This involves looking into previous activities that may have taken place on the site or nearby areas that could contribute to environmental hazards, such as industrial operations, waste disposal, or any other activities that are known to have pollution risks.

Understanding the history of the property helps assessors determine if there is a likelihood of contamination and whether further investigation, such as a Phase II assessment, is warranted. This aspect of the assessment is vital as it forms the foundation for understanding the environmental liabilities associated with the property.

The other aspects, while potentially useful in the broader context of property evaluation, do not fall under the typical scope of a Phase I Environmental Site Assessment. For instance, analyzing the physical structure of a building relates more to architectural or engineering assessments rather than environmental concerns. Similarly, financial appraisals focus on market value and economic aspects rather than environmental status, and the evaluation of future construction plans is relevant for zoning and development assessments rather than the immediate environmental concerns being investigated in a Phase I assessment.