Phase I Environmental Site Assessments (ESA)
ALLIN Building Consultants
A Division of ALLIN Home Inspections, Inc.
​
When purchasing, refinancing, or leasing commercial property, environmental liability exposure must be addressed before closing.
​
ALLIN Building Consultants provides professional Phase I Environmental Site Assessments (ESA) in accordance with ASTM and SBA standards throughout Northern Illinois and Eastern Iowa.
​
Why Choose ALLIN Building Consultants for Your Phase 1 ESA?
• Environmental Professional (EP) and Industrial Hygienist with 30+ years of experience
• Assessments performed in accordance with ASTM E1527-21
• SBA 50 10 7 compliant Phase I assessments available
• Competitive pricing
• Typical turnaround time: 12–14 business days
• Complimentary reliance letters upon request
​
Environmental due diligence requires experience, documentation strength, and regulatory understanding.
What Is a Phase I Environmental Site Assessment?
A Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) is conducted under ASTM E1527-21 standards to identify potential or existing environmental contamination risks associated with a property.
​
The purpose of a Phase I ESA is to:
​
• Identify Recognized Environmental Conditions (RECs)
• Evaluate historical property usage
• Reduce environmental liability exposure
• Support “All Appropriate Inquiry” (AAI) requirements
• Assist lenders, investors, and attorneys during transactions
​
A Phase I ESA does not include sampling of soil, air, groundwater, or building materials. If warranted, further investigation may involve a Phase II assessment.
When Is a Phase I ESA Required?
A Phase I ESA is commonly required for:
​
• Commercial property purchases
• SBA-backed loans
• Industrial or mixed-use transactions
• Development or redevelopment projects
• Properties with prior commercial use
​
A deed does not release environmental liability. Environmental exposure can extend beyond ownership transfer.
What Is Included in a Phase I ESA?
Records Review
​
• Federal, State, Tribal, and Local environmental database review
• Regulatory file review
• Historic aerial photographs
• USGS topographic maps
• Chain-of-title review for environmental liens and Activity and Use Limitations (AULs)
• Municipal planning and permit records
​
Site Reconnaissance
​
• On-site visual assessment
• Evaluation of potential contamination indicators
• Review of storage tanks and hazardous materials usage
• Assessment of adjacent property risks
​
Interviews (All Appropriate Inquiry – AAI)
​
• Current and past property owners
• Tenants
• Site managers
• Knowledgeable parties
Non-Scope Considerations
Unless specifically contracted, Phase I ESAs do not include:
​
• Asbestos surveys
• Lead-based paint testing
• Mold assessments
• Radon testing
• Wetlands delineation
• Vapor intrusion analysis
​
These may be added as separate services if required.
Environmental Professional Qualifications
Under ASTM E1527-21, an Environmental Professional (EP) must meet defined criteria including licensure, education, and experience.
​
Our assessments are conducted or directly supervised by a qualified Environmental Professional meeting EPA standards.
Phase II and Phase III
If a Phase I identifies Recognized Environmental Conditions, a Phase II investigation involving sampling may be recommended.
​
Phase III activities involve remediation and corrective action if contamination is confirmed.
Request a Quote
If you require a Phase I Environmental Site Assessment for a commercial transaction, contact ALLIN Building Consultants.
​
Proceed with clarity. Protect capital. Reduce liability exposure.
​
Environmental due diligence services, including Phase I Environmental Site Assessments and Records Search with Risk Assessments, are available through ALLIN Building Consultants.
Request A Quote Contact Us or (877) 535-0990
Phase I Environmental Site Assessment FAQs
How long is a Phase I ESA valid?
Most lenders consider a Phase I ESA valid for 180 days under ASTM standards, though certain components may require updates.
Does a Phase I include environmental testing?
No. A Phase I ESA does not include soil, groundwater, or air sampling. If concerns are identified, a Phase II may be recommended.
What is a Recognized Environmental Condition (REC)?
A REC is the presence or likely presence of hazardous substances or petroleum products that may indicate contamination risk.
Is a Phase I required for SBA loans?
Many SBA-backed loans require environmental due diligence, which may include an RSRA or a Phase I ESA depending on risk classification.