02/04/2022
The real estate market in Idaho is thriving right now, and we often receive calls regarding Phase I Environmental Site Assessments (ESAs). A Phase I ESA is most frequently used to help property Buyers, Sellers and Lenders identify and mitigate environmental risks before purchasing a property. A Phase I ESA is also a step in completing All Appropriate Inquiries (AAI) to satisfy the CERCLA Innocent Landowners Defense.
The Phase I ESA is a non-invasive study that includes historical research, regulatory reviews, interviews with owners and occupants, and a visual inspection of the property that is performed by an Environmental Professional. The experience of the Environmental Professional can make the difference between identifying potential environmental risk and not identifying potential risk (i.e. purchasing a property without having all of the relevant information). Because the experience of the Environmental Professional is critical to producing a quality Phase I ESA, the EPA, AAI and ASTM have defined minimum education and/or experience requirements for those who perform a Phase I ESA.
Briefly, the requirements of an Environmental Professional are: 1) a State issued license (P.E. or P.G.) and 3 years of relevant experience, or 2) a bachelor’s degree in a science field with 5 years of relevant experience, or 3) 10 years of relevant experience. The qualifications of the Environmental Professional should be included in the Phase I ESA report so that the Users of the report can verify the education is adequate.
True North Environmental provides qualified staff that meets and exceeds the definition of an Environmental Professional, per EPA, AAI and ASTM. Our staff possesses the regulatory knowledge, technical skills, and regional experience that is required to identify and minimize environmental risks for real estate transactions. We are very service-oriented and understand the fast-paced nature of real estate transactions, and can deliver a Phase I ESA report in 2 weeks. Please contact us today to learn more about Phase I ESAs or with any questions. Learn more about our services here:
https://www.truenorth-env.com/services/
