A new standard for Phase I environmental reports is in the works and will require more work for environmental consultants.
The new standard, ASTM E1527-21, which will replace the existing ASTM E1527-13, affects about 250,000 commercial real estate transactions a year. It will, among other things, mandate more in-depth historical reviews at many locations, including a requirement to examine the history of adjoining properties.
One of the drivers for these changes is to determine potential health risks represented by dry cleaning businesses. Contamination from these businesses is the leading source of environmental liability in commercial real estate transactions.
The new standard also adds PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) and other emerging contaminants to the list of “non-scope issues” that a user may want to evaluate as a business risk. This is how asbestos and mold is handled according to the current standard.
The standard for Phase I environmental reports is updated every eight years. It was last revised in 2013.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Jun 25, 2018
Integrated Project Delivery guide offered by Pankow Foundation
An Action Guide for Leaders offers answers to critical IPD questions.
Codes and Standards | Jun 21, 2018
New app said to automate code compliance
Startup offers plug-in that scans 3D models.
Codes and Standards | Jun 20, 2018
Home values and local tax revenues at risk from high tide flooding, scientists group says
Analysis of property data identifies communities prone to frequent flooding.
Codes and Standards | Jun 19, 2018
Structural engineered wood products exempt from new EPA formaldehyde ruling
Exempt products include structural plywood, oriented strand board (OSB).
Codes and Standards | Jun 18, 2018
Seattle City Council repeals controversial new per-worker tax on large employers
Measure was aimed at raising $50 million for homeless services, affordable housing.
Codes and Standards | Jun 14, 2018
Hardscape from development makes ‘1,000-year’ flood in Maryland worse
Impermeable concrete made it easier for water to overwhelm drainage system.
Codes and Standards | Jun 13, 2018
United States Resiliency Council announces support for Calif. earthquake resiliency bill
Measure would help cities identify structures that could fail in major quake.
Codes and Standards | Jun 12, 2018
Congestion pricing for cars is effective in reducing traffic, but a difficult sell
After three years, traffic congestion declined by 30% in London.
Codes and Standards | Jun 11, 2018
First RFP requiring modular construction on New York City housing project issued
Part of Housing 2.0 modular construction initiative.
Codes and Standards | Jun 6, 2018
Buffalo, N.Y., contractor exec pleads guilty to fraud for bid rigging on $750 million contract
LPCiminelli stops functioning as GC in fallout from the case.