In the dynamic cityscape of Amsterdam, navigating commercial real estate transactions requires a strategic approach to risk management, and our Partner team is poised to guide you through the process of Phase 1 Environmental Assessments (Phase 1 ESA). Understanding potential CRE risks, our Amsterdam-based team specializes in providing valuable insights during this crucial phase.
The Preliminary Risk Assessment, often known as a Desk Study or Stage 1 Risk Assessment, is a comprehensive report that dives into the analysis of potential contamination sources. This assessment not only evaluates contamination risks at the site but also outlines a roadmap for further investigations if deemed necessary. Our due diligence extends to considering the environmental conditions of the area, with a keen focus on potential risks posed to those involved in construction, end users, and the building itself. The process involves in-depth desk studies, analysing historical and geological map data to unveil the site’s past uses and gathering environmental data on ground conditions, hydrology, and local features of relevance.
The Phase 1 Preliminary Risk Assessment is designed to identify and evaluate both on and off-site potential land contamination risks, meticulously assessing their impact on the site and its users. By compiling all available information, we construct a ‘Conceptual Site Model’ (UK EPA Part 2A) — a narrative or diagram explaining sources, pathways, and receptors at the site.
Irrespective of whether the property is industrial, commercial, mixed-use, or multifamily, our Amsterdam Partner team excels in a thorough examination of the historical and current uses of the property, ensuring a comprehensive understanding tailored to the unique landscape of Amsterdam.
Additional municipality, province, national, and other related government agencies about Amsterdam, Netherlands Phase 1 Environmental Assessments can be obtained from the following resources:
While the core principles of Phase 1 ESAs remain consistent across regions, there are definitely some factors that make them unique in Amsterdam compared to other locations:
Dutch Legislation: Dutch environmental regulations differ from US-based standards like ASTM E1527. ESAs in Amsterdam follow the “Soil Protection Act” and related decrees, focusing on soil quality and groundwater protection.
Risk-Based Approach: Dutch ESAs emphasize a risk-based approach, tailoring the assessment to the specific property and potential contaminants based on historical land use and surrounding environment.
Historical Land Use: Amsterdam’s rich history and land reclamation projects lead to a focus on past industrial activities, landfills, and potential presence of legacy contaminants like heavy metals and persistent organic pollutants (POPs). Due to its cultural and historical significance, Amsterdam places importance on preserving its architectural heritage.
Geology & Hydrogeology: Amsterdam’s low-lying nature and complex subsurface with peat and clay layers influence contaminant migration pathways and require specific investigation techniques like soil coring and groundwater sampling.
Water Management: Being a city built on water, Amsterdam faces unique challenges related to water management and environmental protection. ESAs in Amsterdam may pay particular attention to potential contaminant migration pathways through groundwater or surface water bodies.
Climate Change Adaptation: With rising concerns about climate change and sea-level rise, Amsterdam has implemented measures to enhance resilience and adaptability. ESAs may evaluate how climate change could impact site conditions and factor in adaptation strategies in risk assessments.
Building Materials: Older buildings in Amsterdam may contain asbestos or lead-based paint, requiring additional assessments during the site visit.
Data Availability: Access to historical records and environmental databases might differ compared to other countries, requiring creative methods for gathering information.
Communication & Reporting: ESAs in Amsterdam typically involve communication with Dutch environmental authorities and reporting in Dutch, requiring expertise in local regulations and language.
Sustainability Considerations: Growing emphasis on sustainability in Amsterdam might lead to incorporating aspects of brownfield redevelopment and circular economy principles into the ESA process.
