A Phase 1 Environmental Site Assessment or ESA is completed by a licensed environmental professional who researches the current and historical uses and records of the property to determine if the soil or groundwater on or beneath the property could pose an environmental threat.  In most cases it is recommended that some type of environmental report, such as a Phase 1 ESA, be conducted prior to purchasing a property and it’s often required by most lenders. We have more answers if you have more questions.