Phase I/II Assessments

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Phase I/II Assessments

When the University of Michigan (U-M) considers acquiring, or in some cases leasing, a property, a Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) is conducted to identify known or potential sources of contamination and environmental risks associated with the property.  The Phase I ESA is conducted in accordance with the ASTM Standard 1527-05 in order to satisfy federal requirements for “All Appropriate Inquiry” and to receive liability protection in regards to the existing contamination.  The Phase I ESA may also include evaluation of the following environmental concerns:

  • Asbestos-containing materials
  • Lead-based paint
  • Wetlands/Floodplains
  • Radon
  • Regulatory compliance history

If the Phase I ESA identifies potential contamination at the property, a Phase II ESA will be conducted in order to collect representative soil, groundwater and/or soil gas samples for laboratory analysis.   The results of the Phase II ESA are compared to the Michigan Act 451 Part 201 Generic Residential Cleanup Criteria to identify potential exposure concerns and to determine if the property meets the definition of a “facility” under Part 201.  If the property is a “facility” and U-M intends to acquire or lease it, a Baseline Environmental Assessment (BEA) will be prepared and submitted to the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) in order to satisfy the State of Michigan requirements for liability protection with regard to existing contamination.

For more information, contact EP3 at (734) 647-1143.

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