Simply stated, a Phase I ESA is looking for indications that current or historic uses of the property may have resulted in contamination. The Phase I also considers neighboring properties where contaminants may have migrated onto the property through groundwater, etc. Because the scope of the Phase 1 environmental site assessment is focused on contamination issues, some organizations will decide to augment the assessment to address other related issues, such as:
- Asbestos
- Lead-based paint
- Indoor air quality and industrial hygiene
- Compliance with environmental permits and environmental laws
- Compliance with OSHA rules and other health and safety issues
- Past company disposal practices in landfills, etc.
These other types of issues are not addressed in a Phase I ESA under the ASTM standard; if you wish to have these issues addressed, you need to discuss adding them with the environmental professional.