A new standard for Phase I environmental reports is in the works and will require more work for environmental consultants.
The new standard, ASTM E1527-21, which will replace the existing ASTM E1527-13, affects about 250,000 commercial real estate transactions a year. It will, among other things, mandate more in-depth historical reviews at many locations, including a requirement to examine the history of adjoining properties.
One of the drivers for these changes is to determine potential health risks represented by dry cleaning businesses. Contamination from these businesses is the leading source of environmental liability in commercial real estate transactions.
The new standard also adds PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) and other emerging contaminants to the list of “non-scope issues” that a user may want to evaluate as a business risk. This is how asbestos and mold is handled according to the current standard.
The standard for Phase I environmental reports is updated every eight years. It was last revised in 2013.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Mar 5, 2020
France to mandate all new public buildings be 50% timber or other natural materials
Measure would go into effect by 2022.
Codes and Standards | Mar 4, 2020
American Concrete Institute and Precast/Prestressed Concrete Institute expand partnership
Will collaborate on new code requirements.
Codes and Standards | Mar 3, 2020
Wallcoverings industry releases product scorecards concerning sustainability
Tool adds more transparency to certification.
Codes and Standards | Feb 28, 2020
Bay Area communities struggle with what to do about rising sea level
Policies include sea walls, levies, and relocation.
Codes and Standards | Feb 27, 2020
Cell phones present a safety hazard at job sites
Use of ear buds, headphones banned by some contractors.
Codes and Standards | Feb 26, 2020
American Concrete Institute releases 2020 codes, specifications, and practices
ACI Collection features guidance on structural concrete construction and rehabilitation.
Codes and Standards | Feb 25, 2020
New ISO standard for optimizing building use and reusing and recycling components released
Aim is to realize full potential value of a building throughout its life cycle.
Codes and Standards | Feb 21, 2020
Architects push back on proposed uniform design mandate for federal architecture
AIA speaks out against measure.
Codes and Standards | Feb 20, 2020
City-owned buildings to go carbon-free in Los Angeles
Mayor commits to goal for new and extensively renovated structures.
Codes and Standards | Feb 19, 2020
Public is willing to volunteer to maintain green infrastructure
Perceived benefits make residents willing to help public works departments.
