An environmental site assessment, or ESA, is a series of inspections and tests designed to identify pollution risks or existing contamination on a particular property. It's an invaluable tool for site development professionals to understand the risks associated with this location. To learn more about the process and its uses, here are some common questions and their answers.

Environmental Site Assessment FAQ

Who needs an ESA?

These inspections are most commonly arranged by a prospective buyer interested in the property. Having this assessment done before hand can help them understand the value of the property, the associated liabilities, and potential risks. A lender financing the transaction may also have an interest, along with regulators trying to ensure the property complies with legal guidelines and qualifies for state and federal programs.

Who provides these tests and inspections?

ESA preparers are environmental scientists and engineers who combine many related areas of expertise. A thorough assessment requires knowledge of chemistry, geology, physics, botany, and microbiology.

What are the stages of an ESA?

This process involves three phases. During Phase I, an environmental consulting firm or other provider looks through the records of the property for any warning signs of contamination. Phase II includes physical testing of any suspected areas, and Phase III is to fix or clean up any spills, contamination, or high-risk areas.

What areas are covered?

An ESA includes the soil, groundwater, surface water, and any structures on the site. Assessors typically look for hazardous chemicals, petroleum and petroleum products, and other potential contaminants.

If you're planning to purchase commercial property or need an environmental site assessment for other reasons, choose Shield Environmental Associates in Lexington, KY, to provide this service. Their dependable, certified engineers have been serving Fayette County and surrounding areas since 1983 and will help you ensure compliance with the area's laws and avoid fines. To schedule an inspection, call (859) 294-5155, or learn more about the firm's history and mission on their website.