In the state of Kentucky, Phase I ESAs are used to locate Recognized Environmental Conditions (RECs) connected with a property or parcel of land.
Identifying environmental liabilities can be a challenging without specialized training. These challenges are compounded during a property transaction, which is already a complicated process, yet this is exactly when it is most important to understand if there are potential environmental issues. A Phase I environmental site assessment (ESA) helps identify these issues and limit environmental liability.
The purpose of an ESAs is to review historical data and current conditions on a property to determine if any use (past or present) could have created hazardous conditions that represent a threat to human health or the environment. Identifying these types of concerns prior to a property transition is crucial in locating contamination that the purchaser may be responsible for in the future. Phase I ESAs are a common requirement for financial lending institutions that want to limit their risk.
Our Phase I ESA approach, research, and reporting meets the requirements outlined in the American Society of Testing Materials (ASTM) Standard Practice for Phase I Environmental Site Assessments and Environmental Protection.
Phase I ESA Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Recognized Environmental Condition (REC)?
A recognized environmental condition is the likely presence of hazardous substances or petroleum products in, on, or at a property. They can be associated with historic activities on the site or the likely potential for a future release.
What type of report will you receive from a Phase I ESA?
Aegis produces Phase I ESAs that meet the guidelines set out by the American Society for Testing Materials (ASTM) Standard Practice requirements for Phase I Environmental Site Assessments (E1527-13) and Environmental Protection.
What are the next steps if a REC is found on the property?
If a REC is found on a property an environmental professional will identify the potential for that REC to contaminate the nearby environment. The professional will determine if the REC can directly impact the soil, soil gas, or groundwater at or adjacent to the site. At this stage, further evaluation in the form of a Phase II assessment may be recommended. Aegis maintains a staff of trained environmental professionals to assess RECs, plan Phase II assessments, and carry out associated sampling activities.
How long does a Phase I ESA take to complete?
In general, a standard Phase I ESAs take 2 to 3 weeks to complete. It is possible to expedite the completion of a Phase I report, but this can lead to data gaps if all of the relevant information is not available in the shorter timeframe.
