Our Phase 1 Environmental Site Assessment reports are completed by experienced staff and all are directed by environmental professionals with a minimum of 10-year’s experience. Our projects are very cost effective because we are a small employee-owned company and we do not have the large overhead and expenses of a large company. We have the available staff and experience to complete multi-site portfolios with very short due dates. We take pride in the fact that we can provide quality Phase I ESA reports for less cost than our competition.
RSB Environmental is the national leader in Phase 1 Environmental Site Assessment report by volume. Most reports are performed to meet the standards of ASTM E1527-21. RSB Environmental often customizes reports to meet individual client or agency lender’s (Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac) requirements while taking the widely varying geology and topography of the region into consideration.
Phase 1 Environmental Site Assessment Report Scope:
Site Visit
- Inspection of the Site
- Catalog the Presence of Hazardous Materials
- Catalog the Presence of Petroleum Products
Historical Research
- Historical Aerial Photographs
- Reverse Street Directories
- Building Permits
- Planning Records
- Topographical Maps
- Sanborn Fire Insurance Maps
- Department of Oil and Gas Maps
- Title Information
Geology and Hydrogeology
- Soil Type
- Geological Setting
- Groundwater Depth
Regulatory Research
- Fire Departments
- State Environmental Agencies
- Federal Environmental Agencies
Interviews and Document Review
- Interview Tenants and Owners
- Interview State and Local Regulators
- Review Provided Reports
Our Service Areas
RSB has conducted Phase 1 Environmental Site Assessment report projects nationwide. Locally RSB has completed numerous projects in San Jose. Please feel free to call us at 1-833-910-2535 or email at info@rsbenv.com to get a site specific price for your property.
Frequently Asked Questions
Toggle TitleWhat is included in a Phase 1 Environmental Site Assessment report for San Jose properties?
A Phase 1 ESA report for San Jose properties includes a detailed review of site history, past land usage, environmental records, regulatory files, aerial photographs, contamination concerns and interviews with people familiar with the site. The goal is to identify any hazardous materials, chemicals, soil impacts or groundwater issues that could affect property value or development plans.
Why do California regulations require Phase 1 site assessments for many real estate transactions?
California environmental regulations emphasize risk evaluation, protection of groundwater and proper handling of hazardous substances. Site assessments help confirm whether the property meets compliance requirements and whether contamination from past industrial or commercial activities could create liabilities for buyers, lenders or operators in accordance with state guidelines.
What types of contamination are commonly identified during Phase 1 ESAs in San Jose?
Common issues include historical releases of petroleum products, solvents, metals, leaks from underground storage tanks, dry cleaning chemicals, and soil or groundwater contamination from nearby industrial sites. These findings often come from historical records, previous inspection results and environmental investigation reports.
Do all San Jose properties require additional investigation after a Phase 1 ESA?
Not always. Many sites do not require further action if no contamination risks are identified. However, if the report finds potential problems such as hazardous materials, improper land usage, or concerns about past operations, a Phase 2 investigation may be recommended to evaluate soil, groundwater or vapor conditions.
How does a Phase 1 ESA help property owners and buyers manage environmental risk?
A Phase 1 ESA provides a clear evaluation of environmental conditions before purchase or development. Identifying contamination risks early helps owners plan remediation strategies, understand potential cost impacts and make informed decisions about future site usage or redevelopment in compliance with California requirements.
Are Phase 1 ESA requirements different in San Jose compared to other California cities?
The core ASTM standards used for Phase 1 ESAs are the same across the state, but local conditions in San Jose, Oakland, San Francisco and surrounding areas can influence the findings. Historical industrial activity, soil types, regional groundwater patterns and proximity to regulated facilities can all affect environmental review results and reporting requirements.
