Phase I Environmental Site Assessments (ESAs) in Baltimore, Maryland, are typically conducted by environmental professionals who are certified by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM).
A Phase I ESA can help to identify potential environmental risks that could impact the value of a property or pose a liability to the owner. It can also help to identify any necessary cleanup or remediation measures that may need to be taken before the property can be safely used or developed.
The benefits of having a Phase I ESA conducted include:
The requirements for a Phase I ESA in Baltimore, Maryland are generally consistent with the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) International Standard E 1527-13 for Phase I Environmental Site Assessments: Process. However, there are a few additional requirements that must be met in Baltimore, including:
Additional Baltimore, Maryland state and local information about PCAs can be obtained from the following resources:
If the Phase I ESA identifies any Recognized Environmental Conditions (RECs), the environmental consultant may recommend that further investigation be conducted in the form of a Phase II ESA. A Phase II ESA typically involves the collection and analysis of soil and groundwater samples to determine if hazardous substances or petroleum products are present at the property.
Phase I ESAs are an important tool for identifying and evaluating potential environmental risks associated with commercial real estate transactions. By hiring a qualified environmental consultant to perform a Phase I ESA, buyers and sellers can protect themselves from financial liability and make informed decisions about their real estate investments.