Not only is environmental due diligence a proactive measure in a real estate transaction, but it can save a lot of time and money after the transaction is complete. See why NDDS works hard to offer a world-class due diligence process.
For more than 25 years, National Due Diligence Services (NDDS) has remained an industry staple for responsive and high-quality due diligence products and services. We handle complex single sites to multi-state and multi-site projects in a wide selection of markets ranging from hospitality to industrial work.
Our mission? To create and deliver superior and innovative products and services for commercial real estate needs that promote the success of our clients.
What is Environmental Due Diligence?
Environmental due diligence refers to the process of evaluating a property for liabilities and risks prior to a real estate transaction. The ultimate goal is to identify any concerns that could impact the transaction—like compliance issues or hazardous materials—or incur a costly and extensive resolution process in the future.
What Does Environmental Due Diligence Mean to NDDS?
As an expansion of American Surveying & Mapping (ASM) and the premier due diligence agency in the United States, it is our responsibility to create the best products and services for the markets we serve. Environmental due diligence is not an item on the checklist—it’s about doing our best to ensure a safe environment that allows businesses to operate and develop profitably.
The health and safety of the surrounding landscape and involved parties is of top priority to us, and we work hard to prove that through our exceptional team and international work in the industry. NDDS is a one-stop-shop for accurate, responsive and professional due diligence services.
What is the Environmental Due Diligence Process?
Environmental due diligence can take several different forms depending on the type of property under review. The following two Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) phases typically take place prior to the closure of a property during the due diligence period, and provide in-depth assessments to the lender, buyer, and other involved parties. The Environmental Database Review Report is an option for low-risk assets, and helpful for a more base-level evaluation.
Phase 1 Environmental Site Assessment
This is a standardized due diligence assessment completed by NDDS’ Environmental Site Assessment teams, following the most recent standard practices from the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM).
Phase 1 includes a few main steps that must be conducted in order for the phase to be considered complete:
- A full site reconnaissance
- Research of regulatory and historical record sources
- Consult of client-provided information
- Completion of selective interviews to identify evidence of the presence or likely presence of hazardous substances or petroleum products at the property under conditions that indicate an existing or past release or material threat of future release, defined by the standard as a Recognized Environmental Condition (REC)
Phase 2 Environmental Site Assessment
If potential risks and liabilities have been identified in Phase 1, an experienced due diligence team will undergo the next phase in environmental due diligence.
Phase 2 ESAs include a physical collection sample and a confirmation of suspected contaminants like:
- Soil investigations
- Water sampling
- Above ground and underground storage tank testing
- Asbestos
- Mold
- Lead-based paint
- Radon
- And more
Environmental Database Review Report
This form of environmental due diligence is a low-risk, high-data option that helps to better inform a party’s decision-making process. It is often employed at the beginning of a real estate transaction.
Our team conducts research in a variety of environmental databases to identify possible environmental issues related to a property. From there, our Environmental Assessments team compile all found results into a review report that includes:
- Research that identifies the site and surrounding site’s parameters
- Access to various environmental historical reports
- Identification of any environmental findings of concern
- A complete review by an environmental professional
- A notice of any risks that are associated with the site
Due to NDDS’ wide range of clients and industries serviced, we feature a selection of environmental report options. Speak with a member of our team to
learn which option is right for you. Please note that an Environmental Database Review Report does not include a site visit.
Enlist the Help of National Due Diligence Services
No matter your industry, product, or service needs, NDDS offers the help of a team of professionals who will keep your project on time and compliant with federal, state, and local regulations. In addition to environmental due diligence services, NDDS also specializes in Zip Maps, ALTA Surveys, Zoning Reports, and more. Contact us today to begin the process.