The Canadian Standards Association (CSA Z768-01) (R2016) provides guidelines for conducting Phase I Environmental Site Assessments (ESAs). The initial investigation identifies potential environmental contamination and liabilities that may be associated with a property. Physical sampling is not conducted. Historical documents and records are used, including aerial photographs and any previous environmental reports.
A site visit and other in-person techniques like interviews with previous owners are also conducted. Following on from these stages a report is prepared to identify information gaps and to make recommendations for follow-up investigations. This is essential to real estate transactions, environmental due diligence, and risk management as well as helping stakeholders to make informed decisions about potential property acquisitions and developments.
