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 | Oct 4, 2021
HPD Collaborative and Green Seal to align standards
Will result in expanded options for manufacturers to enhance sustainability reporting and certifications.
Codes and Standards | Sep 30, 2021
U.S. has a deficit of 5 million homes
Builders unable to keep pace with demand.
Codes and Standards | Sep 29, 2021
Mass Timber group study will compare structural round timber to glulam products and steel
Will compare costs, capabilities, and carbon impacts of structural materials.
Codes and Standards | Sep 28, 2021
Massachusetts creates Commission on Clean Heat
First-of-its kind body to set targets for buildings to reduce emissions from heating fuels.
Codes and Standards | Sep 27, 2021
Commercial real estate industry faces SEC climate disclosure regulations
Risks associated with climate change would have to be revealed.
Codes and Standards | Sep 22, 2021
Group proposes Carbon Use Intensity metric for new buildings
Plan would track embedded carbon on projects.
Codes and Standards | Sep 22, 2021
Illinois’s sweeping climate bill includes statewide stretch code, building electrification measures
Aims for zero-emissions power sector by 2045.
Codes and Standards | Sep 22, 2021
Cities need to step up flood mitigation efforts to save lives
Recent storms highlight climate change dangers.
Codes and Standards | Sep 21, 2021
Steps to improve ventilation for Covid can combat colds and flu
New look at airborne disease spread shows time viruses linger in air may have been underestimated.
Codes and Standards | Sep 15, 2021
USGBC will change leaders, conduct strategic review
Aims to ensure organization is ‘well positioned to scale its work in the post-pandemic world’.
