Phase I Environmental Site Assessments
Identify environmental risks early and keep your project on schedule with confidence
A Phase I ESA is the industry standard for environmental due diligence. It follows ASTM E1527 and evaluates a property’s history, current conditions, and the potential for contamination that could affect value, financing, or liability.
What Is a Phase I ESA?
These reviews confirm compliance, reduce risks, and keep projects on track for HUD approval.
A Phase I Environmental Site Assessment is the first step in identifying potential environmental risks on a property. It is a key part of real estate due diligence, giving buyers, lenders, and developers the information they need to avoid unexpected liability.
The assessment follows ASTM E1527 standards, which are widely recognized by lenders, HUD, and regulatory agencies. It reviews a property’s history, current conditions, and potential for contamination to create a clear, reliable picture of environmental risk.
In simple terms, a Phase I ESA is about uncovering hidden problems before they become expensive surprises. By addressing these concerns early, you protect your investment, satisfy lender requirements, and keep your project moving forward with confidence.
Key Components of an Environmental Review
Our Phase I ESA process provides a clear picture of environmental risks by reviewing –
- Site inspections and documentation
- Historical land use and aerial photograph review
- Environmental records search (federal, state, and local databases)
- Interviews with owners, occupants, neighbors, and local officials
- Identification of Recognized Environmental Conditions (RECs)
If concerns are identified, a Phase II ESA may be recommended for further testing and sampling.
Why It Matters?
Failing to conduct a Phase I ESA can leave you exposed to costly cleanups or legal liability. A properly completed ESA:
Satisfies lender and HUD requirements
Reduces financial risk by uncovering hidden issues
Ensures compliance with ASTM and EPA standards
Provides a strong defense against liability under CERCLA
Why Choose Us?
Local Knowledge – Based in Louisville, serving Kentucky and Southern Indiana with decades of regional expertise.
Trusted by Lenders – Our ESAs meet ASTM standards and satisfy HUD, banking, and investor requirements.
Fast Turnaround – We know deadlines matter, so we deliver accurate reports on schedule.
Full-Service Support – From Phase I to Phase II, testing, and remediation, we’re with you every step of the way.
Our Step by Step Approach
We make the Phase I ESA process straightforward and manageable. Our team handles the site work, records review, and reporting, giving you a clear picture of environmental risks and confidence to move forward.
1. Project Consultation
We begin with a discussion about your property, goals, and deadlines so we know exactly what you need.
2. Site Visit & Inspection
Our team visits the property to document current conditions and note any visible concerns.
3. Historical Research
We review federal, state, and local databases along with maps, aerial photos, and directories to uncover past property uses and potential risks.
4. Final Report & Next Steps
You receive a clear, ASTM-compliant report with findings and recommendations, including whether additional testing (Phase II ESA) is needed.
Ready to Protect Your Investment?
Get a clear, ASTM-compliant Phase I ESA report that keeps your project lender ready and on schedule.
CMEC Environmental provides Phase I Environmental Site Assessments (ESAs) for projects throughout Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Missouri, Tennessee, West Virginia, and beyond. Our team partners with developers, lenders, and housing authorities in cities such as Louisville, Lexington, Bowling Green, Elizabethtown, Frankfort, Owensboro, Jeffersonville, New Albany, and Clarksville.
Every Phase I ESA we conduct is performed in strict accordance with ASTM E1527 standards, ensuring potential environmental risks are uncovered early and compliance requirements are met. Whether satisfying HUD guidelines, lender expectations, or federal and state regulations, CMEC delivers accurate, timely assessments that help clients move projects forward with confidence and stay on schedule.