TerrAtlantic's personnel have considerable experience with the Environmental Site Assessments (ESAs) in Atlantic Canada:
Phase I ESA | Phase II ESA | Phase III ESA
Phase I—Environmental Site Assessments
When the environmental condition of a property is to be evaluated for reasons of property transfer or financing, a Phase I Environmental Site Assessments (ESAs) may be required. The objective of a Phase I is to identify any areas of potential environmental concern. When conducted in a thorough manner following established protocols, a Phase I ESA can significantly reduce the environmental liabilities associated with a property transaction. The buyer or other financial stakeholder can by this means be fully informed as to the nature of their investment, while the vendor can be protected from later claims associated with a future contamination event.
Using standardized research techniques, the Phase I ESA is directed at determining the past and present activities that have taken place at a particular site, and establishes the framework for further assessment, if necessary.
The Phase I ESA is conducted in accordance with CSA Z768 Phase I Environmental Site Assessment guidelines and ASTM E1527-94 and E1528-93 Environmental Site Assessments for Commercial Real Estate standards. As such, each assessment includes the following elements:
Records Review
The records review process is designed to collect data on past events and activities related to both the subject and the adjacent properties. These records typically include aerial photographs, fire insurance plans, provincial GIS data and mapping, previous geotechnical and environmental reports, petroleum storage tank information and more.
Site Visit
The site visit follows the records review and involves a thorough walkover of the property. Topographic, geologic, hydrogeologic and surface water conditions are observed at this time, as are signs of contamination. Buildings may also be assessed at this stage.
Interviews
The records review and site visit focus the investigation, so that the pertinent information collected to this point can be expanded upon and/or verified during the interview process. Those familiar with present and past activities on the subject property are interviewed.
Evaluation and Reporting
Finally at the evaluation and reporting stage, all the data are compiled and assessed. The report will include a description of the site findings, and concise point-form conclusions. Should potential environmental concerns be identified, recommendations as to the work necessary to properly characterize the situation will be provided. Such work may range in scope from limited sampling to a full Phase II intrusive investigation. Alternatively, the Phase I investigation may lead to the conclusion that the property is free of environmental concerns.
Furnace oil tank—sign of contamination
