A Phase I Environmental Site Assessment protects both the buyer, seller and financial institutions. It provides some assurance that unforeseen environmental problems will not occur in the future due to past or current activities on or near the site. The Phase I Environmental Site Assessment report may vary in its format but should address key areas listed and discussed in published document Z768-01/2012. (This document was revisited and updated in 2022).  Please note that requirements for Phase I reports vary by province.

What does a Phase I Environmental Site Assessment Report typically include?

Part A) The collection and review of all historical information available for the site – which may include all or a portion of the following depending upon availability:

•     Building Permit Records

•     Zoning Bylaws & Maps

•     Fire Insurance Maps

•     Fire Department Records

•     A review of the historic Henderson Directories

•     A search of the Ministry of Environment(Saskatchewan) or relevant provincial ministry(ie: Alberta Environment Sustainable Resource Development) records and databases

•     A search of Historic Land Titles (dating back at least 60 years)

•     Vicinity Water Well Records

•     A review of historic aerial photographs and satellite imagery

•    Any information that can be obtained from interviews with past and present owners, building managers, and any other persons having knowledge of the property.

•    A review of previously conducted Phase I Site Assessments and/or Phase II or III work done on the site or near vicinity properties.

Part B) Site Inspection - The inspection of the site includes mechanical rooms and work areas, offices, or in the case of apartments, public areas and a selection of apartments or suites. The Site Visit is generally guided by persons familiar with the property.

Part C) Detailed report of findings, discussion and recommendations – if no concerns are found, the recommendation will be for no further environmental work.

Part D) The final report - includes a PDF format copy, as well as two paper copies if desired.

The study is generally completed and the report delivered within a maximum of 30 days. Polson Environmental works closely with the client to provide a timely report to meet reasonable banking deadlines.  In instances where unforeseen deadlines must be met, we have a very good record of accommodating the client and banking institutions involved.