What is a Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (Phase I ESA)?

A Phase I ESA is a due diligence review that looks for evidence of potential environmental contamination at a property. It typically includes a records review, historical research, a site visit, interviews, and a written report that identifies Recognized Environmental Conditions (RECs) and recommended next steps.

What does RMA include in a Phase I ESA?

Most Phase I ESAs include federal, state, and local database research, historical sources (like aerials, topo maps, city directories, and land records when available), a site reconnaissance, interviews (as applicable), and a clear report that documents findings and calls out RECs, Controlled RECs, and Historical RECs when present.

How much does a Phase I ESA usually cost?

Pricing depends on property type, size, location, complexity, and turnaround time. Many Phase I ESA projects fall in the $2,000 to $5,000+ range, with larger or more complex sites, portfolios, and rush timelines typically costing more.

How long does a Phase I ESA take?

Timelines vary by site complexity and scheduling for the site visit, but many Phase I ESAs can be completed within 2 to 4 weeks. If you are under a hard closing deadline, we can often discuss expedited options depending on availability.

Does a Phase I ESA include sampling or lab testing?

No. A Phase I ESA is a non-invasive assessment and does not include soil, groundwater, indoor air, or building material sampling. If the Phase I identifies a concern that warrants sampling, the typical next step is a Phase II investigation.

Phase I ESAs by RMA | Our Phase I Process From Start to Finish

Your Path to a Defensible Phase I ESA: Our Process

Start the Conversation

Records Review & Site Reconnaissance

Report Preparation & Risk Evaluation

Ongoing Due Diligence & Transaction Support

The Short Version: We talk. You tell us about the property and the transaction, we assess the level of risk, and then lay out a clear, practical path forward. Honest answers, realistic expectations, and no pressure.

The Phase I ESA process starts with a conversation. Whether it’s over email, a phone call, or a Teams meeting, we take time to understand the property, the transaction, and what’s driving the due diligence. Are you buying, refinancing, merging portfolios, or preparing for a sale? The context matters, and we want to get it right.

We work with companies managing property portfolios across multiple states, as well as organizations handling high-value or repeat transactions. Many clients come to us because they want a second set of experienced eyes on risk, not just a checkbox report. Some need a standard Phase I ESA, others want help evaluating prior reports, historical use concerns, or potential exposure under CERCLA. And some are simply looking for quick answers before moving forward.

Once we understand your situation, we’ll outline a clear scope of work, realistic timing, and transparent pricing. No inflated promises or unnecessary upsells. Just a straightforward path to a Phase I ESA that meets ASTM requirements and actually protects you if questions come up later.

The Short Version: We gather the right records, review the property’s history, and conduct a thorough site reconnaissance in line with current ASTM Phase I standards, led by experienced environmental professionals.

Once we get started, we begin with the records review and background research required for a compliant Phase I ESA. This includes reviewing historical sources, regulatory databases, prior environmental reports, and publicly available information relevant to the property and surrounding area. This work begins right away and helps us understand how the site has been used over time before anyone ever steps on the property.

The site reconnaissance is then performed by an experienced consultant who understands how to evaluate conditions through the lens of the ASTM Phase I Environmental Site Assessment standard. Site visits are scheduled to fit your transaction timeline and the nature of the property, whether it’s active, vacant, industrial, commercial, or part of a larger portfolio.

You won’t see interns or junior staff walking the site. A qualified professional conducts the site visit, documents conditions with photos and notes, and asks focused questions when needed. Our approach is practical and risk-based. We don’t overreact to minor issues, and we don’t ignore legitimate concerns. The goal is a clear, defensible understanding of site conditions that supports informed decision-making and stands up to lender, investor, and legal review.

The Short Version: We deliver a clear, well-supported Phase I ESA that reflects real site conditions and gives you an honest, practical assessment of environmental risk.

Once the research and site work are complete, we prepare your Phase I Environmental Site Assessment and run it through internal review. Every report is written specifically for the property and the transaction, not pulled from a template or rushed out the door. Our focus is on accuracy and making sure the conclusions actually make sense for everyone involved.

We take a measured, risk-based approach when evaluating findings. If there are legitimate concerns, we explain them clearly and support them with evidence. If conditions don’t rise to that level, we don’t force the issue. Our goal is to help you understand real environmental risk, not create unnecessary uncertainty or push you into follow-up work that isn’t justified.

The final report is written in plain language and organized so key findings and conclusions are easy to find. You’ll receive a complete digital deliverable that works for lenders, attorneys, investors, and internal teams. And if questions come up during review or negotiations, we’re available to walk through the report and explain how conclusions were reached.

The Short Version: Some clients need a Phase I once. Others rely on us across years of transactions. If additional investigation or follow-up work makes sense, we’ll help you navigate it. If not, we’re just as comfortable stopping at the Phase I.

For some projects, our work is one-and-done. We complete the Phase I ESA, deliver a clear report, and the transaction moves forward. But many of our clients work with us repeatedly over time, especially those managing portfolios, acquisitions, or ongoing real estate activity.

If conditions identified during the Phase I suggest that additional investigation is warranted, we’ll talk through what that actually means and help you evaluate next steps. When a Phase II ESA makes sense to better understand the extent of potential contamination, we can help guide you through that process thoughtfully and efficiently. Just as importantly, if the evidence doesn’t support moving forward, we’ll say that too.

In some cases, clients also choose to address environmental items after acquiring a property, whether that’s cleanup planning, compliance support, or risk reduction measures. We’re happy to help with that work when it’s needed. And if you prefer to keep the engagement limited to the Phase I, that’s perfectly fine as well. Our role is to support informed decisions, not to push unnecessary services.

Whether you engage us for a single Phase I or rely on us as a long-term due diligence partner, our focus stays the same: helping you understand risk clearly, avoid surprises, and move forward with confidence.

Here’s What Comes With Your Phase I ESA

Everything you need to understand environmental risk, support smart decisions, and move forward with confidence.

A Phase I ESA You Can Trust

A clear, well-supported Phase I Environmental Site Assessment written specifically for your property and transaction. No boilerplate language, no rushed conclusions, just a thoughtful evaluation of site conditions and potential risk.

Expert-Led Site Reconnaissance

Your site visit is conducted by an experienced environmental professional, not junior staff following a checklist. We know what to look for, what matters, and how to evaluate conditions in context.

Clear, Risk-Based Findings

We take a measured approach to identifying environmental concerns. Legitimate issues are explained clearly and supported by evidence. Minor or irrelevant items aren’t inflated into problems they’re not.

Reports That Hold Up Under Review

Our Phase I ESAs are written for real-world use by lenders, attorneys, investors, and internal teams. Findings are easy to follow, conclusions are defensible, and key information is easy to find.

Portfolio & Multi-Property Support

Buying or managing multiple properties? We regularly support portfolio acquisitions, repeat transactions, and ongoing due diligence programs with consistent, scalable Phase I ESA work.

Guidance Beyond the Phase I

If additional investigation or follow-up work makes sense, we’ll help you understand your options and next steps. If it doesn’t, we’re just as comfortable stopping at the Phase I. Our role is to support good decisions, not push extra work.

Are We the Right Fit for Your Phase I ESA Needs?

Phase I Environmental Site Assessments aren’t one-size-fits-all, and neither are the firms that provide them. At RMA, our Phase I ESA services are built for organizations that care about doing environmental due diligence the right way, not just getting a report as fast or as cheap as possible.

We’re a great fit for you if:

✓ You’re buying, selling, or refinancing property and want a Phase I ESA that actually helps you understand environmental risk, not just check a box.

✓ You work with lenders, investors, or attorneys who expect thoughtful, defensible environmental due diligence.

✓ You want experienced professionals applying judgment, not junior staff rushing through high-volume templates.

✓ You’re managing multiple properties, repeat acquisitions, or an ongoing real estate portfolio and value consistency from one report to the next.

✓ You want a Phase I ESA that’s careful not to overstate issues, but thorough enough to stand up when questions come up during underwriting or legal review.

✓ You prefer a consultant who will explain risk clearly, talk through gray areas, and help you make informed decisions.

✓ You’re involved in higher-value transactions where the cost of missing something far outweighs the cost of doing due diligence properly.

✓ You want a Phase I ESA that supports negotiation, risk allocation, and smart deal-making, not one that creates unnecessary friction.

✓ You’re looking for a long-term environmental partner, not just a one-off report vendor.

That also means we’re not always the best fit for everyone.

If your top priority is finding the cheapest Phase I available, getting a report turned around with minimal review, or flagging every possible issue “just to be safe,” there are firms that specialize in that approach. That’s simply not how we work.

We focus on experience, judgment, and defensibility. That’s why banks, investors, attorneys, and seasoned buyers trust RMA when the stakes are higher and the decisions matter.

If environmental risk, liability, and due diligence quality matter to your transaction, there’s a very good chance we’re the right partner to help you get it done right.

Common Phase I ESA Service FAQs

What is a Phase I Environmental Site Assessment?

A Phase I Environmental Site Assessment, or Phase I ESA, is an environmental due diligence review completed before buying, refinancing, or redeveloping a property. Its purpose is to identify potential environmental risks tied to current or historical property use so buyers, lenders, and investors can make informed decisions before money changes hands.

Why do lenders and investors require a Phase I ESA?

Lenders, investors, and attorneys rely on Phase I ESAs to understand environmental risk before closing a deal. A properly completed Phase I helps protect parties from unexpected cleanup liability and supports legal defenses if contamination is later discovered. It is a core part of buying property responsibly, not just checking a box.

Is every Phase I ESA basically the same?

Not at all. While Phase I ESAs follow a standard framework, the quality varies widely depending on who performs the work. Some firms rely on junior staff, templated reports, and volume-based workflows. Others, like RMA, take a risk-based approach led by experienced professionals who focus on real-world liability and defensibility, not just speed.

Why is RMA not the cheapest Phase I provider?

We are not built to be a budget or bulk Phase I provider. Our pricing reflects that your Phase I is completed by experienced environmental professionals who understand risk, transactions, and liability. We do fewer reports, spend more time on each one, and focus on accuracy and judgment rather than pushing volume. For our clients, that tradeoff is worth it.

Who is RMA a good fit for when it comes to Phase I ESAs?

RMA is a strong fit for organizations that treat environmental due diligence as a risk management tool, not paperwork. That includes companies involved in mergers and acquisitions, portfolio property purchases, commercial and industrial real estate investors, lenders, attorneys, and organizations that buy property regularly and want consistency and defensibility.

Who may not be the best fit for RMA Phase I services?

If you are looking for the fastest or cheapest possible Phase I just to satisfy a checkbox, we may not be the right fit. We generally do not focus on one-off, ultra-low-budget transactions where speed matters more than judgment. Our clients come to us because they value experience, discretion, and sound decision-making.

Will a Phase I automatically lead to a Phase II?

No. A well-executed Phase I should not automatically push you into further investigation. At RMA, we apply a risk-based approach and only recommend additional work when the evidence truly supports it. Our goal is to help you understand risk, not create unnecessary follow-on projects.

What happens if a Phase II is actually needed?

If a Phase II investigation is warranted, we walk you through why, what it would involve, and what decisions you need to make. We can manage the Phase II for you, help you scope it appropriately, or coordinate with your legal and financial teams. Just as importantly, we will tell you when a Phase II is not justified.

Does a Phase I ESA protect me from environmental liability?

A properly completed Phase I is a key part of protecting yourself from environmental liability, but only if it is done correctly. A poorly prepared or rushed report may meet the minimum requirement on paper without truly protecting you. That is why experienced consultants and defensible documentation matter when stakes are high.

How long does a Phase I ESA usually take?

Most Phase I ESAs are completed within a few weeks, depending on property complexity, access, and records availability. We focus on being efficient without cutting corners. If you have deal-driven timelines, we will talk through them up front and set realistic expectations.

Do you handle Phase I ESAs for multi-property portfolios?

Yes. Many of our Phase I projects involve portfolios of properties rather than single locations. This approach allows us to apply consistent judgment across sites, streamline communication, and help clients evaluate risk at both the individual property level and the portfolio level.

Can you help after the Phase I is complete?

Absolutely. Some clients only need a Phase I, and that is fine. Others ask us to assist with next steps such as Phase II investigations, risk management planning, cleanup strategies, or post-acquisition environmental improvements. We support clients for as long as they need, or just for the Phase I itself.

Why do attorneys, lenders, and investors trust RMA for Phase I ESAs?

Our work is trusted because it is careful, experienced, and defensible. We focus on judgment, documentation quality, and risk clarity rather than volume. When deals, reputations, and long-term liability are on the line, our clients want a Phase I that stands up to scrutiny.

What do you need from us to get started on a Phase I ESA?

To get started, we typically need basic property information, transaction timelines, access details, and any existing environmental records. From there, we guide the process and handle the rest, keeping you informed without overwhelming you.

Meet Your Phase I ESA 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 Move Forward with Your Phase I?

If you’re in the middle of a property transaction and want a clear, thoughtful understanding of environmental risk, we’re here to help. RMA has supported investors, lenders, attorneys, and real estate teams across the country with Phase I ESAs that are built to inform decisions, not just check a box.

When you fill out the form, a real person from our team will reach out to learn about the property, the transaction, and what you’re trying to accomplish. We’ll answer your questions, talk through timing and scope, and help you decide the best next step. No sales pressure, no canned pitches, and no unnecessary upsells. Just practical guidance from professionals who do this every day.

Environmental due diligence can feel high-stakes, and our job is to help you move forward clearly, confidently, and without surprises.

Get Phase I ESA Help

Trusted Nationwide for Smart Environmental Due Diligence.

We’ve helped investors, lenders, attorneys, and real estate teams navigate environmental risk with confidence, clarity, and defensible Phase I ESAs. Scroll below to see how organizations across the country have partnered with RMA to support better decisions and stronger transactions.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

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
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

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
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

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
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

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
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Have been doing business with Doug and his team for approx 5 years now and have found they are always quick to respond and very knowledgeable in their field. Great company!

Frank McIntyre

L&L Paving Co
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

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
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

RMA was the best they are so helpful, and very responsive to my calls and emails. I give them a 5 STAR!

Dina Tammaro

Empire Transit Mix Inc.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

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
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Wonderful staff. Provides detailed explanations in a manner that is easy to understand. Quick to respond.

Susan Allen

Shore Sand and Gravel
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

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