Phase I Environmental Site Assessments are a critical first step in evaluating potential environmental liabilities associated with a property. Often required by lenders during commercial real estate transactions, these assessments review the site’s current and historical use to identify potential contamination or recognized environmental conditions.
Lord & Winter conducts Phase I ESAs in accordance with ASTM standards and EPA’s All Appropriate Inquiry (AAI) requirements. Our team delivers clear, timely reports to support informed decision-making and help clients meet regulatory and financial due diligence requirements.
Phase II Environmental Site Assessments are conducted when a Phase I ESA identifies potential environmental concerns that warrant further investigation. These assessments involve collecting and analyzing soil, groundwater, or soil vapor samples to determine whether contamination is present and to what extent.
Lord & Winter works with clients to define a focused, cost-effective scope of work that meets project objectives and regulatory expectations. Our team handles sampling, analysis, and reporting with precision—providing clear data to guide next steps in remediation or risk management.
When contamination is confirmed at a site, a Remedial Action Plan (RAP) outlines the strategy for cleanup. These plans define the scope of remediation, identify contaminants of concern, and establish methods for achieving regulatory closure or meeting risk-based cleanup goals.
Lord & Winter develops site-specific RAPs that align with regulatory requirements and project timelines. We coordinate with environmental agencies, evaluate remedial alternatives, and provide clear, practical steps for implementation—ensuring remediation efforts are both effective and efficient.
Soil remediation involves the removal, treatment, or containment of contaminated soil to reduce environmental risk and meet regulatory standards. This step is often necessary following a Phase II ESA or as part of a broader site cleanup effort.
Lord & Winter designs and manages soil remediation strategies tailored to site conditions, contaminant type, and project goals. Our team works closely with regulators and contractors to ensure timely, compliant remediation—supporting safe redevelopment and long-term site stability.
Groundwater remediation addresses contamination in subsurface water that can pose risks to human health, ecosystems, and future site use. This process involves identifying contaminant sources, assessing the extent of impact, and implementing treatment methods to restore groundwater quality or contain migration.
Lord & Winter develops groundwater remediation strategies based on site-specific conditions, regulatory requirements, and long-term project goals. We manage everything from investigation and system design to implementation and monitoring—ensuring a practical, science-based approach to cleanup and compliance.
Voluntary Cleanup Programs (VCPs) offer a structured pathway for property owners and developers to address environmental contamination in coordination with state regulatory agencies. Participating in a VCP can help limit liability, streamline regulatory oversight, and support property redevelopment or reuse.
Lord & Winter helps clients enroll in and navigate VCPs by preparing required documentation, coordinating with regulators, and developing cleanup strategies that meet program standards. Our team ensures that remedial efforts are well-documented, defensible, and aligned with project objectives—making the path to site closure more predictable and efficient.
The Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA), also known as Superfund, is a federal law that governs the cleanup of sites contaminated with hazardous substances. It holds current and former property owners, operators, and other responsible parties liable for contamination—even if they did not cause it. CERCLA can impact property transactions, redevelopment plans, and long-term liability.
Lord & Winter supports clients in identifying potential CERCLA risks through environmental assessments, historical research, and regulatory review. When applicable, we help manage liability through due diligence strategies, coordination with agencies, and integration with state cleanup programs. Our goal is to minimize risk and provide a clear path forward for contaminated properties.
Vapor intrusion occurs when volatile chemicals from contaminated soil or groundwater migrate into overlying buildings, posing potential health risks to occupants. When identified, mitigation is often required as part of site redevelopment or environmental cleanup efforts.
Lord & Winter evaluates vapor intrusion pathways and designs mitigation strategies tailored to site-specific conditions. This may include passive or active ventilation systems, vapor barriers, or building design modifications. We work closely with regulators and project teams to ensure mitigation is effective, code-compliant, and integrated into the broader site development plan.
Leaking underground storage tanks (USTs) can release petroleum or hazardous substances into surrounding soil and groundwater, creating environmental and regulatory concerns for current and future property use. Addressing UST releases typically involves investigation, corrective action, and coordination with state environmental agencies.
Lord & Winter assists clients in identifying, assessing, and managing UST releases through site investigation, remediation planning, and regulatory reporting. Our team ensures all actions align with applicable cleanup standards and supports clients through closure processes—helping minimize liability and facilitate property reuse.
