Performing Phase I Environmental Site Assessments (ESAs) in Southern California is a little different than in other states.  The Golden State has lived up to its name in the world of real estate as real estate investors have done quite well in the past 50 years. Arguably one reason for real estate appreciation is that real estate in California is supply restricted and environmental regulation is one of many causes for the supply restrictions.
Partner has been serving the needs of the commercial and multifamily real estate industry since before the creation of ASTM standards. Partner is known as an industry leader in Phase I Environmental Site Assessments and often meets ASTM E1527-21 Standards in our reporting. Partner is able to create and meet customized client scopes.
Partner Engineering and Science, Inc. is headquartered in the Los Angeles area. Whether your property is located on the coast of Los Angeles or the hills, Partner fully understands the variances of these landscapes. The Partner Los Angeles team is experienced with multiple aspects of the environmental due diligence process and includes, but is not limited to, Jenny Redlin, REPA, and Arcie Propster.
A Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) in Los Angeles, California, follows the same general principles and guidelines as Phase I ESAs conducted elsewhere in the United States. However, there are certain factors and considerations that can make Phase I ESAs in Los Angeles unique or different from assessments in other regions. Here are some key factors to consider:
Environmental Regulations: California has some of the strictest environmental regulations in the United States. The state has its own set of laws and regulations governing environmental protection, which can be more stringent than federal regulations. This means that Phase I ESAs in Los Angeles must consider not only federal requirements but also state-specific regulations.
Geological and Environmental Conditions: Los Angeles is known for its diverse geological and environmental conditions, including earthquake risks, landslides, and wildfire hazards. These factors can influence the assessment process and require additional considerations when evaluating potential environmental risks.
Historic Land Use: The history of land use in Los Angeles can be quite complex, with properties often having a history of various industrial, commercial, and residential uses. This can complicate the assessment process, as it may be necessary to investigate the historical use of a property more thoroughly to identify potential sources of contamination.
Cultural and Archaeological Considerations: Los Angeles has a rich cultural and historical heritage, which may necessitate additional assessments to identify any cultural or archaeological resources that need protection during development projects. This can add an extra layer of complexity to Phase I ESAs in the area.
Local Expertise: Due to the unique environmental and regulatory conditions in Los Angeles, it is often beneficial to involve local environmental consultants who are familiar with the specific challenges and requirements of the region. These experts can provide valuable insights and ensure compliance with local regulations.
Vapor Intrusion Concerns: Vapor intrusion is a concern in Los Angeles due to the potential for volatile chemicals in the soil and groundwater to migrate into buildings. Phase I ESAs in the area may place a greater emphasis on assessing vapor intrusion risks and implementing mitigation measures as needed.
Redevelopment and Brownfield Sites: Los Angeles has seen a significant amount of urban redevelopment and the conversion of Brownfield sites into new developments. Phase I ESAs in these situations must consider the history of the site, potential contamination, and the need for cleanup or remediation.
In summary, while Phase I Environmental Site Assessments in Los Angeles adhere to the same basic principles as assessments conducted elsewhere, the unique environmental, regulatory, and historical factors of the region can make them somewhat different. It’s important to work with experienced environmental professionals who are familiar with local conditions and regulations to ensure a comprehensive and compliant assessment process.
