Finding the right consultant could mean the difference between an environmentally trouble-free future and an ecological and legal mess. Where to look Start by clearly understanding your needs before you begin looking for your consultant. If, for example, you need someone to ensure you are properly handling dangerous chemicals, you'll need someone with a more scientific background. If you need someone to check out a piece of property your company may purchase, someone with proper training and a background in real estate may be a better choice. A consultant performing a phase one study will check into the history of the property to identify any reasons for concern, such as the property was home to a gas station in a former life, or was downstream from a chemical plant known for being particularly dirty.
Many banks demand such an assessment before approving a loan to purchase commercial property.
That's because a company that purchases property becomes responsible for any environmental problems the site may have, whether or not the company created the mess or even knew about it. The only way corporations and banks can protect themselves against inheriting a liability that could cost more than the value of the land is to have the property inspected. This work requires a more technical background. It is up to the purchaser of property to decide how far to go in the process. In some cases, the testing may make the land too expensive.