What does RMA evaluate during an environmental audit?

Our environmental audits review your facility, operations, permits, records, and day-to-day practices against applicable federal, state, and local regulations. Depending on your site, this can include programs like SPCC, stormwater, hazardous waste, Tier II, TRI, air permitting, and other compliance obligations.

How much does an environmental audit usually cost?

Environmental audit pricing depends on facility size, number of programs reviewed, complexity, and whether you want a verbal audit, a written report, or both. Many single-facility audits fall in the $2,500 to $15,000+ range, with smaller, focused audits on the lower end and large or multi-program audits on the higher end.

Can audit findings be delivered verbally instead of as a written report?

Yes. Some clients prefer a confidential verbal walkthrough of audit findings, while others need a detailed written report for internal tracking or corporate requirements. We offer verbal-only, written, or combined delivery options based on your preference.

Can RMA help fix issues identified during an environmental audit?

Absolutely. If an audit identifies missing permits, plans, reporting, training, or other compliance gaps, we can handle those items for you. We also offer follow-up audits, site inspections, and full environmental program management if you want ongoing support.

Environmental Audits by RMA | Our Audit Process From Start to Finish

Your Path to Environmental Compliance: Our Process

Start the Conversation

Kickoff & Site Visit

Findings, Reporting & Next Steps

Ongoing Compliance

The Short Version: We talk. You tell us where things stand, we help figure out what’s needed, and then we lay out a simple path forward. Clear scope, honest advice, and no pressure.

The path to a meaningful environmental audit starts with a conversation. Whether it’s through email, a quick phone call, or a Teams meeting, we take the time to understand your operations, permits, and concerns. We want to know where you’re at today, whether you’re looking for a high-level compliance check or a deeper, more detailed audit.

We work with companies managing environmental compliance across multiple states, as well as single-location operations. In many cases, businesses just want an experienced professional to take an honest look and tell them how they’re really doing. Some clients need a full internal audit, others want a focused review tied to specific regulations or an upcoming inspection. Some are simply unsure and want a second set of eyes. Whatever your starting point, we’ll help you figure out exactly what you need, and what you don’t.

Once we’ve talked through your situation, we’ll provide a ballpark estimate, a clear scope of work, and a simple service agreement. No bloated paperwork. No pressure. Just a straightforward path to getting your environmental audit handled the right way.

The Short Version: We gather what we need to get started right away. An on-site visit is a core part of the audit, and an experienced consultant will come out to review your facility efficiently, safely, and on your schedule.

Once we’re ready to move forward, we’ll start by gathering background information about your facility, permits, and operations so we can be prepared before arriving on site. From there, we’ll schedule an audit visit at a time that works best for your team and minimizes disruption to your operation.

Most environmental audit site visits take between 1 and 4 hours, depending on the size and complexity of the facility. You’ll typically have just one of us on site. We don’t send interns or junior staff. One of our senior consultants will walk the facility, observe operations, review storage and waste areas, look at records, take photos and notes, and ask targeted questions based on applicable regulations.

Our team has decades of combined experience auditing active industrial and commercial sites. We’re OSHA-trained, fully insured, and know how to work safely, efficiently, and respectfully around ongoing operations. We won’t slow you down or get in the way. We focus on what matters, gather the right information, and set the foundation for a useful, defensible audit.

The Short Version: We walk you through what we found and explain what it means. You can choose a confidential verbal debrief, a detailed written report, or both.

Once the site visit and audit work are complete, we review our findings internally and prepare to deliver the results in the way that works best for you. Some clients want a detailed written audit report they can keep on file. Others prefer a confidential verbal walkthrough without creating a formal document. Many choose a combination of both.

If you opt for a written report, it will be specific to your facility and operations. It’s not a generic checklist or boilerplate summary. The report outlines compliance gaps, potential risks, and areas of concern tied directly to applicable regulations and permits, with findings prioritized so you know what truly needs attention versus what can be addressed over time.

If you choose to receive results verbally, we’ll schedule a focused conversation to walk through what we observed, explain where you stand, and answer questions in real time. This option is often preferred by companies that want clarity without creating additional documentation, such as during internal reviews, pre-acquisition due diligence, or early-stage compliance checkups.

In both cases, everything is explained in plain language. We focus on helping you understand what matters, why it matters, and what your realistic next steps look like. If you want support correcting issues, providing training, or strengthening your compliance program after the audit, we can help with that too. And if the audit confirms you’re in good shape, you’ll walk away with confidence and peace of mind.

The Short Version: Some clients just need an audit. Others rely on us to close gaps, manage requirements, and keep their entire environmental program on track for years. Either way, we can meet you where you are.

Sometimes, our work is one-and-done. We conduct an environmental audit, walk through the findings, and you take it from there. But in many cases, audits uncover missing permits, outdated plans, unsubmitted reports, or training requirements that need attention. When that happens, we don’t just point it out. We can help you fix it.

If your audit shows that you need permits, plans, approvals, or ongoing reporting, we can handle those pieces for you. That might mean preparing and submitting permit applications, developing plans like SPCC or stormwater programs, completing required annual reporting, or providing employee training. Our goal is to help you move from gaps to full compliance in a practical, defensible way.

Beyond closing immediate gaps, many clients bring us back for follow-up audits, periodic site inspections, or routine compliance reviews to make sure things stay on track over time. Regulations change. Operations change. Staff turns over. We help you stay ahead of all of it.

How involved we are is completely up to you. We can work alongside your environmental manager as a support resource, handle specific compliance tasks as needed, or step in and run your entire environmental compliance program on your behalf. And if you prefer to take things back in-house after the audit, that’s fine too. We’re flexible, responsive, and built to support your long-term goals in whatever way makes the most sense for your business.

Environmental compliance is about building a system that works, and then keeping it working. Whether you need short-term help or a long-term partner, we’re here to help you do it right.

Here’s What Comes With Your Environmental Audit

Clear insight, practical guidance, and real options for getting and staying compliant.

A Clear Picture of Where You Stand

A practical review of your facility, operations, permits, and practices so you understand what’s compliant, what’s not, and where your real risks are.

Audit Results, Delivered Your Way

Choose a confidential verbal walkthrough, a detailed written report, or both. You decide how formal or informal your audit deliverables need to be.

Prioritized, Plain-English Findings

We explain what matters, why it matters, and what needs attention first. No regulatory jargon or endless checklists that don’t move the needle.

Help Closing Compliance Gaps

If the audit uncovers missing permits, plans, reporting, or training, we can step in and handle the work needed to get you into compliance.

Consistency Across Facilities

For multi-site operations, we help align programs, documentation, and processes so compliance looks the same across every location.

Ongoing Support When You Need It

From follow-up audits and site inspections to full program management, we can stay involved as much or as little as you want.

Are We the Right Fit for Your Environmental Audit Needs?

Our environmental audit services are built for companies that want clear answers about their compliance status and a realistic path forward. We’re a great fit for you if:

✓ You’re unsure whether your facility is fully compliant and want an honest assessment before problems arise.

✓ You want a proactive audit to identify risks and gaps before an inspection or enforcement action.

✓ You’re preparing for an inspection, internal review, acquisition, or due diligence process.

✓ You’ve had a violation, inspection, or close call and want help getting back on track.

✓ You manage multiple facilities and want consistent, standardized compliance across all of them.

✓ You want clear, usable guidance, not a confusing checklist or a report that sits on a shelf.

We’ve supported facilities across the country, from single-site operations to large multi-site organizations, helping them understand their environmental obligations and reduce compliance risk across federal, state, and local programs.

If your facility has permits, regulated materials, waste streams, or environmental reporting requirements, there’s a strong chance an audit can help... and we’ve helped organizations just like yours get clarity and stay compliant.

Common Environmental Audit Service FAQs

What is an environmental audit?

An environmental audit is a structured review of your facility, operations, and documentation to see how well you line up with environmental regulations. We look at what you’re required to do, what you’re actually doing, and where the gaps are. The goal is not to scare you, it’s to give you clarity and a realistic path to compliance.

Why would my company need an environmental audit?

Most companies don’t get audited because something is wrong. They do it to stay ahead of inspections, prepare for growth, satisfy corporate or lender requirements, or just get peace of mind. If you’re unsure whether your permits, plans, training, or records are solid, an audit helps you find out before an inspector does.

Is an environmental audit required by law?

Usually no. Environmental audits are typically voluntary. That said, many companies are required to do internal audits under ISO 14001, corporate EHS programs, or consent agreements. Even when they’re not required, audits are one of the best ways to reduce risk and avoid fines.

What regulations do you cover in an environmental audit?

That depends on your facility and what you want reviewed. Audits often include SPCC, stormwater and NPDES, hazardous waste, Tier II, TRI, air permits, and general environmental recordkeeping. We tailor the audit scope so you’re not paying for a deep dive into rules that don’t apply to you.

How is an environmental audit different from an inspection?

An inspection is done by a regulator and can lead to fines or enforcement. An audit is done for you. It’s confidential, focused on improvement, and designed to help you fix issues before they become violations. We’re on your side, not the government’s.

Do environmental audits require a site visit?

Most of the time, yes. Audits typically include a site walk so we can see how things actually work, not just how they’re written on paper. In some cases, especially for documentation-focused audits, we can do part of the review remotely to cut down on interruption.

How long does an environmental audit take?

The site visit itself typically only takes a day for most facilities. The final deliverable can take anywhere from one day to a few weeks, depending on the size of the facility, the scope, and whether you're receiving results verbally or in a formal written report.

A single-site audit with a focused scope discussed verbally can move quickly. Larger or multi-site audits with formal documentation take longer, but we keep the process efficient and respectful of your time.

What do we receive at the end of an audit?

It's up to you. Some companies decide to receive a verbal debriefing of findings to cut down on paperwork and limit liability. Others want a clear, written report on paper that explains what’s working, what needs attention, and what actually matters.

We're fine with either. Regardless of the path you take, our findings are prioritized so you know what to fix now, what can wait, and what’s just a best practice.

Will you report us to regulators if you find problems?

For all intents and purposes, no. Environmental audits are confidential and performed for your benefit. We do not report findings to regulators, even if you are out of compliance. The purpose is to help you understand and manage your risk, not create new problems for you.

The only time this could get blurry is in an extremely rare, severe situation involving an immediate and serious threat to human health or the environment, for example something like large-scale intentional dumping of toxic waste into a river. In a case like that, we could potentially be obligated to report it.

That said, we've been doing audits since 1992, and this has never happened once. We’ve seen a lot, including facilities that were not in great shape, and we’ve really never even come close to that line. You're highly unlikely to be the first.

Can you help us fix the issues found in the audit?

Yes. Many clients use the audit as a starting point and then ask us to help with updates, permits, plans, training, or ongoing support. Others just want the findings so they can handle fixes internally. Either approach is fine.

How much does an environmental audit cost?

Audit costs vary based on facility size, complexity, travel, and scope. Some audits are a few thousand dollars, while larger multi-regulation or multi-site audits cost more. We’re upfront about pricing and will scope the audit so you’re not overpaying. Check out our audit pricing page to learn more!

Can you audit multiple facilities at once?

Absolutely. We regularly audit companies with multiple locations. Bundling sites often lowers the per-facility cost and helps create consistency across your environmental program.

Do you work with small companies or only large ones?

We work with both. Some clients are small operations that just want to make sure they’re not missing anything. Others are large organizations with formal EHS programs. The audit approach scales to fit where you’re at.

What do you need from us to get started?

We’ll start with a short conversation to understand your facility and goals. From there, we’ll ask for basic documents like permits, plans, and past inspection records. We keep requests reasonable and guide you through each step so it doesn’t feel overwhelming.

Meet Your Environmental Audit Team

Doug Ruhlin

Hey there, I'm Doug Ruhlin, the guy who kicked off Resource Management Associates back in '92 and now lead the team at our Wilmington, NC office. I always liked being outside as a kid, so it seems...

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Chris Ruhlin

Hey! I'm Chris Ruhlin, your go-to environmental consultant and the Team Lead at RMA's Delaware Office. Most days, you'll find me out and about, working closely with our clients, guiding them through...

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Dennis Ruhlin

Hello! I'm Dennis Ruhlin, the mastermind behind Business & Technical Development at RMA and the leader of our New Jersey Office. Since diving into the RMA world in 2012, I've been all about...

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Tate Hunter

Hey! I’m Tate Hunter, and I’m one of the main folks behind what you see, read, and experience on this site. From building training programs to writing explainer content to helping shape the tools...

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Ready to take control of your environmental compliance?

If you’re looking for expert guidance and a clear understanding of where your facility stands, it’s time to talk with the environmental experts at RMA.

We’ve helped hundreds of facilities identify compliance gaps, reduce risk, and build stronger environmental programs without confusion or regulatory overload. We’re happy to learn about your operations, concerns, and goals, and help you decide whether an environmental audit is the right next step.

If you’re ready to move forward, reach out. We’re here to provide real guidance and answer your questions about environmental audits and compliance requirements. No pressure, no hard sells, and no endless marketing emails. When you fill out the form, a real person from our team will reach out to learn more about your situation and help you figure out the best path forward.

We know environmental compliance can feel overwhelming. Our job is to make it clear, manageable, and actionable for you and your team.

Get Environmental Audit Help

Trusted by Companies Nationwide to Get Environmental Compliance Right.

We’ve helped companies across a wide range of industries gain clarity, reduce risk, and stay compliant.
Scroll through the stories below to see how others have found confidence, compliance, and peace of mind with RMA.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

I first met Doug of RMA in 2002 when I attended an environmental course he developed for the National Ready Mixed Concrete Association. Doug’s ability to effectively communicate and explain the voluminous environmental regulations pertaining to the concrete industry is remarkable. He is truly a gifted speaker and teacher. If you are new to the industry or the environmental field, I strongly recommend participating in Doug’s courses. Since then, we’ve worked together on several projects including an NPDES permitting, and most recently, further development of the Green-Star EMS Program at NRMCA. Doug’s passion, experience, and insight are always welcomed assets on any environmental project.

Ryan Sewell

US Concrete
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

I’ve known Doug of RMA for over 4 years and have seen him tirelessly and passionately promote best management practices to the industries and good stewardship of the environment while exhibiting a refreshingly honest and compassionate concern for the business. It does not take long for one to see and feel Doug’s enthusiasm and commitment when talking to him or hearing him educate a group on the subject of environmental compliance. He manages to do this while helping the end user accomplish this sometimes incompressible task economically. Having hired RMA to assist with decoding the mass of sometimes confusing and contradicting US EPA and state DEP regulations, I can say with confidence that they know our industry very well. I heartily recommend RMA and Doug Ruhlin for anyone needing professional and ethical council with environmental compliance.

Owen Blevins

Mid-Atlantic Concrete Equipment
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Simply put, as a consultant to the ready mixed concrete industry, Doug Ruhlin and the staff of RMA are one of the foremost authorities in terms of environmental regulations, permits, and responsibilities.

Gary Mullings

National Ready Mixed Concrete Association
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Doug Ruhlin has significantly helped bring sustainability to the concrete industry. The first work we did together was on the NPCA Sustainability Committee. His impact was immediate and positive. Doug brings a holistic view of sustainability. I would ask Doug to explain a concept to the committee and he would arrive prepared and armed with a PowerPoint presentation. He is great communicator and possesses a wealth of knowledge on sustainability and environmental affairs. I hope to continue working with Doug for many years as we continue our good work with the committee.

Claude Goguen

National Precast Concrete Association
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

I have known RMA for fifteen years and found them to be extremely professional, with a special insight for identifying issues others might overlook. Their keen eye and excellent communication skills set them apart from other environmental consultants. We are always relieved when we learn that RMA has been involved in a client’s environmental assessments and compliance programs.

Pierre Villere

Allen Villere Partners
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Doug of RMA has prospered as an environmental consulting firm by seamlessly combining his experience as an educator with his expertise as a respected environmental professional to analyze and communicate complex technical issues to both company management as well as the general public. This unique talent has helped cement Doug's reputation as THE environmental voice for the construction materials industry.

John Hayden

Society for Mining, Metallurgy and Exploration
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

I have come to know RMA through our affiliation with the New Jersey Concrete and Aggregate Association. I continue to be impressed with their knowledge and professionalism. Perhaps more importantly, their passion for our industry and the work that he does is unparalleled. I do not hesitate recommending him for your environmental needs.

Ken Yuhas

Grace Construction Products
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

I have known Doug Ruhlin of RMA for nearly 20 years. RMA has been a leader in the environmental arena for all of that time. They're intimately versed in the key environmental issues that affect aggregates and concrete producers; they know the laws, regulations and both industries thoroughly. RMA has helped steer the formulation of new regulations and they have helped to direct industry's response to the current and new regulations - in multiple states. I would not acquire an existing operation or start a greenfield plant or quarry without consulting Doug.

Tarek Khan

BASF
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

I've worked regularly with RMA since 2018. The team is outstanding and every interaction has been positive. They have a legacy of industry expertise already built and they're constantly exploring new ways to help clients.

Travis Keener

Hydration Engineering, PLLC
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

We had the pleasure of working with RMA for our environmental consulting needs, and we are thoroughly impressed with their expertise and professionalism. From the initial consultation to the final permit issuance, their team was knowledgeable, thorough, and responsive. Doug, Tate & their team took the time to understand our specific challenges and provided clear, actionable advice that helped us navigate environmental regulations for our recycling facility with the DEP and EPA officials. Their attention to detail and commitment to delivering high-quality work exceeded our expectations. They even helped us by looping in other specialized professionals to complete various required testing/ tasks for our permit application. If you're looking for an environmental consulting firm that is reliable, knowledgeable, and results-driven, I highly recommend RMA. They are true professionals who go above and beyond to support their clients.

Steph Smith

Peach Country
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

RMA has provided consistent and reliable support for all environmental matters brought to them. They can be both to the point or really dig into the issue depending on what is needed. Highly respected!

Bryan Wigginton

CalPortland
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Over the last 25 years I found Doug and his RMA team to always provide a very professional approach to solving problems. Their knowledge of the concrete and aggregate industry has continuously helped us at Concrete Plants Inc. to handle those difficult environmental questions.

Emil Garlewicz

Concrete Plants Inc.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

RMA has been incredibly responsive and understanding throughout our relationship. We have had several changes and they have always calmly handled our environmental needs. Their team has done an awesome job explaining the requirements and training multiple levels of our organization on our responsibilities and requirements. In short, Doug, Chris, Amy and team have been awesome professionals who've provided a valuable service and always had our backs.

Dave Busch

Arrow Material Services
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

After an extensive search, our firm hired RMA to educate our team on industry environmental best practices. Doug and his team were very thorough in their presentation and supporting documentation, and gave us a real world expectation of what we should be mindful of regarding reclaiming, slurry water, pH levels, permitting and other topics. I would highly recommend RMA to any company interested in understanding the important elements of environmental compliance, sustainability and those interested in positioning themselves as leaders in environmental stewardship.

Owen Blevins

Mid-Atlantic Concrete Equipment
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

I've had the privilege to work with RMA on multiple occasions. I cannot recommend them enough. In the complex, ever-changing world of environmental management - they help make it digestible. Everyone there is incredibly approachable and has a wealth of knowledge. Once you work with them, you won't want to work with anyone else.

Jacob Canale

Silvi Materials
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Tremendous help RMA was with permit transfers for a newly acquired company. Chris, Amy, always there to answer any questions that I had throughout the process. Appreciate the help they give keeping us to stay in compliance with training during the year.

Chris Young

Tanis Concrete
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

RMA has been great to work with the last several years. They are always available to answer any questions we may have and all our needs are met with a quick response.

James Holston Jr

Vulcan Materials Company
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Resource Management was very flexible with scheduling and worked a Phase 1 assessment at one of our locations providing great insight and recommendations.

Dino Faiola

Pennsy Supply
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

We have been using RMA for several years. They always go above and beyond our expectations.

Phillip Hudson

Cumberland Supply
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Could not ask for better support! RMA should be your choice as well!

Bryan Wigginton

CalPortland
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

A great consulting company.

Patrick Buster

Braen Stone Company
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

RMA will provide the support you need. If they do not know it already, guaranteed they will do the research. Highly recommended!

Bryan Wigginton

CalPortland
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Doug and his firm consistently offer the highest quality of environmental services in the ready mixed concrete industry.

Frank Cavaliere

National Ready Mixed Concrete Association