What is a Phase 1 Environmental (or Contaminated Land) Report and why is it necessary?

A Phase 1 Environmental Report provides information on the environmental condition of a site and helps buyers, lenders and developers make informed decisions about their investment or proposed development. In this blog post, we'll discuss what a Phase 1 Environmental Report is, why it's necessary, and how it works.

A Phase 1 Contaminated Land Report is a preliminary risk assessment used to identify potential sources, pathways, and receptors of contamination. It may be required as part of a planning application or to discharge a planning condition imposed by a Local Planning Authority. It may also be requested by The National House Building Council (NHBC) in support of a building warranty, or by a lender as part of a mortgage application.

Phase 1 reports are typically prepared by environmental consultants and involve a review of historical records, such as old maps, photographs, and planning applications, to identify potential sources of contamination. This will include past industrial uses of the site, nearby landfills, or other known contaminated sites. The consultant will also conduct a site walkover to identify any visible evidence of contamination, such as odours, staining or discoloration of the ground or water. Where possible interviews will be conducted with current and past site owners, occupants, and neighbours to gather information about the site's environmental history and potential risks.

Once the potential sources of contamination have been identified, the likelihood of contamination occurring will be assessed and the potential risks to human health and the environment. This will involve considering the type and quantity of contaminants, the geology and hydrology of the site, and the presence of any sensitive receptors, such as residential properties, schools, or water bodies.

If the Phase 1 report identifies a potential risk of contamination, further investigations will be recommended. These may include intrusive sampling and analysis of soil and groundwater or monitoring for ground gases and vapours. This will be necessary to determine the nature and extent of the contamination and to develop a remediation plan.

Phase 1 contaminated land reports are important because they help to ensure that land is developed in a safe and sustainable way. By identifying potential sources of contamination early on, developers can avoid costly delays and problems further down the line.

Here are some of the benefits of having a Phase 1 contaminated land report:

•         It can help to identify and assess potential risks to human health and the environment.

•         It can help to avoid costly delays and problems during development.

•         It can satisfy the requirements of planning authorities and other stakeholders.

•         It can increase the value of a property.

If you are planning to develop land, it is important to have a Phase 1 contaminated land report prepared by a qualified environmental consultant.

For questions or queries about the Phase 1 Environmental Report, call GO Contaminated Land Solutions today on 020 8291 1354.