Records Search with Risk Assessment (RSRA)
ALLIN Building Consultants
A Division of ALLIN Home Inspections, Inc.
A Records Search with Risk Assessment (RSRA) is a streamlined environmental due diligence tool commonly used for SBA-backed and lower-risk commercial transactions.
When a full Phase I Environmental Site Assessment is not required, an RSRA can provide an efficient risk-screening solution.
When Is an RSRA Appropriate?
The Small Business Administration (SBA) environmental policy (SOP 50 10 6 / 50 10 7 updates) outlines when a Records Search with Risk Assessment may be acceptable for certain loan transactions.
An RSRA is typically used when:
• The property presents minimal environmental risk indicators
• The transaction qualifies under SBA environmental screening thresholds
• A lender requires a lower-cost due diligence option
• A preliminary environmental risk classification is needed
If a property is determined to be “high or elevated risk,” SBA guidelines generally require proceeding to a Phase I Environmental Site Assessment.
What an RSRA Includes
A Records Search with Risk Assessment typically includes:
• Federal, state, and historical environmental database review
• Historical aerial imagery review
• NAICS code review
• SBA Environmental Questionnaire review
• Evaluation of environmentally sensitive operations
• Environmental Professional (EP) analysis and risk determination
Unlike a Phase I ESA, an RSRA does not include a site visit.
Advantages of an RSRA Compared to a Phase I ESA
• Faster turnaround (typically 2–3 business days)
• Lower cost
• No site visit required
• Suitable for qualifying SBA transactions
An RSRA is intended as a risk classification tool — not a substitute for a full ASTM-compliant Phase I when one is required.
Environmental Professional Review
ALLIN Building Consultants has a recognized Environmental Professional (EP) and Industrial Hygienist with over 30 years of experience on staff.
All records and data are reviewed and analyzed by our Environmental Professional, who determines whether the property is:
• Low Risk
• High / Elevated Risk
If elevated risk is identified, further investigation — typically a Phase I ESA — may be required under SBA guidelines.
Non-SBA Use of RSRA
An RSRA may also be used outside of SBA transactions as part of a lender’s internal environmental risk management strategy.
Compared to simple database reports, an RSRA includes:
• Historical records review
• EP interpretation and professional opinion
• Risk classification
• Documentation suitable for underwriting review
This provides greater defensibility than automated record searches alone.
Request an RSRA Quote
If you require a Records Search with Risk Assessment for a commercial transaction, contact ALLIN Building Consultants.
Proceed efficiently. Classify risk appropriately. Protect capital.
Request A Quote Contact Us or (877) 535-0990
Records Search with Risk Assessment FAQs
How long does an RSRA take?
Most RSRA reports are completed within 2–3 business days.
Does an RSRA include a site visit?
No. An RSRA is a records-based environmental risk assessment and does not include physical site inspection.
When is an RSRA sufficient instead of a Phase I?
An RSRA may be acceptable for qualifying SBA transactions or lower-risk properties based on lender requirements.
What happens if the RSRA identifies elevated risk?
If elevated risk is identified, SBA guidelines typically require proceeding to a Phase I Environmental Site Assessment.