When a Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) report finds a historical or current "Recognized Environmental Condition," (REC), a Phase II Soil Survey may be recommended depending on the nature of the REC.

The Phase II Soil Survey is conducted to screen the soil and/or groundwater at a Property for potential significant contamination, or environmental liabilities, whether regulatory-mandated cleanups or toxic tort liabilities.

The Phase II Soil Survey characterizes the extent and degree of potential soil and groundwater contamination stemming from the RECs found in the Phase I ESA.

When should a Phase II Soil Survey be conducted ?

Whenever a Phase I ESA determines that there is one or more existing RECs for a Property, or when the owner suspects or knows of a potentially hazardous environmental or health condition existing on a Property, a Phase II Soil Survey should be performed. This is done to in order to determine if regulated substances have been release into the soil or groundwater.

Non-disclosure (hiding) of known environmental conditions from potential buyers, renters, tenants, or lessors can lead to serious consequenses including lawsuits.

What does a Phase II Soil Survey include ?

Phase II Soil Surveys typically employ a soil and/or groundwater sampling device. Depending on the sample location and depth, three methods of sample retrieval may be used: 1) a truck-mounted drill rig (direct push or hollow stem auger) to collect deep samples or install temporary groundwater monitoring wells; 2) a limited-access rig to collect samples in tight or interior locations, and/or 3) a hand auger to collect shallow samples.

After sampling, the soil and/or groundwater samples are labeled and delivered to a certified laboratory for analysis. The analyses performed will depend on the nature of the suspected material release.

Who can perform a Phase II Soil Survey ?

A Phase II Soil Survey should be performed by a professional who is experienced in geology, subsurface contaminant movement, and soil and groundwater sampling procedures. In addition, the Phase II Site Investigation should be managed by a professional having a minimum of a Masters in Geology, and preferably a Professional Geologist (P.G.) or Professional Engineer (P.E.) Certification.

What standards control the performance and scope of a Phase II Soil Survey ?

Numerous ASTM standards are related to the performance of Phase II Soil Surveys, and include:

The cost to perform a Phase II Soil Survey is based on a number of variables including: the location, size of the Property, type of suspected contaminant, depth to groundwater, number and type of analyses, etc.

Please contact us by phone at 207-838-3168 to speak with a knowledgeable member of our team.