When it comes to buying, selling, or redeveloping commercial or industrial property, you’re not just investing in land—you’re inheriting its history. And sometimes, that history includes environmental risks that aren’t visible to the naked eye.
A Phase II Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) may seem like just another step in the process, but it could be the most important investment protection you make.
A Phase II ESA is designed to investigate potential environmental concerns identified during a Phase I ESA—things like underground storage tanks, chemical use, or historic operations that could have impacted the soil or groundwater.
While a Phase I is research-based, a Phase II involves on-site testing and laboratory analysis to confirm whether contamination is actually present.
Skipping a Phase II ESA can lead to costly surprises down the road. Here’s how conducting one can save you in the long run:
Avoid Hidden Cleanup Costs
Remediation of soil or groundwater contamination can run into the tens—or hundreds—of thousands of dollars. A Phase II identifies these risks before they become your responsibility.
Strengthen Negotiations
If contamination is confirmed, you may be able to negotiate cleanup costs into the purchase agreement or walk away from a deal that’s not in your best interest.
Ensure Regulatory Compliance
Environmental laws hold current owners responsible for contamination—even if they didn’t cause it. A Phase II ESA shows due diligence and can limit your liability under laws like CERCLA.
Protect Future Development Plans
Contamination can halt or delay development projects. Knowing what you're working with allows you to plan for remediation upfront and avoid costly delays.
At Talon/LPE, we know time is money. Our in-house environmental scientists and drilling crews work seamlessly to deliver accurate results quickly—without compromising quality. Whether you're dealing with petroleum hydrocarbons, solvents, or metals, we’ve got the expertise and equipment to get the job done right.
We operate across Texas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and surrounding states, providing full-service solutions from assessment through remediation.