Due Diligence for Mixed-Use Development

Environmental Compliance - Michigan

Project Need

A developer preparing to acquire nearly 48 acres in Auburn Hills, Michigan required environmental due diligence to support the safe transfer and future redevelopment of the site. With plans for retail, commercial, industrial, and residential use, a Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) and Baseline Environmental Assessment (BEA) were needed to evaluate historical site conditions and obtain liability protection under Michigan law.

Services Completed

Lord & Winter completed a Phase I ESA in accordance with ASTM E1527-21, including site reconnaissance, database review, and historical records research. Based on the findings, the team prepared a BEA report for submission to the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), documenting environmental conditions and establishing a legal baseline for the prospective purchaser.

Issue Resolved

The assessments provided the developer with a clear understanding of environmental risks and positioned the project for closing within the state’s regulatory timeframe. By completing both the Phase I and BEA ahead of the scheduled sale, Lord & Winter helped the client proceed with confidence and minimize future liability concerns.

Photo by Ivan Bandura on Unsplash

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Environmental planning is critical to a development project's success

Compliance should be a top priority for any commercial development team. If you overlook local, state, or federal regulations, you could inadvertently violate pertinent environmental compliance laws, exposing your organization to civil liability and fines. Lord & Winter’s environmental planning services can help your team stay apprised of all relevant regulations.

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