A Phase 1 Environmental Assessment, commonly referred to as Phase I ESA, is a preliminary investigation conducted to assess potential environmental contamination or hazards on a property. This assessment is typically carried out during the due diligence phase of real estate transactions, especially for commercial and industrial properties. The purpose of a Phase I ESA is to identify any actual or potential environmental liabilities associated with the property that could affect its value, use, or future development.

Here's an overview of the typical process involved in a Phase I Environmental Assessment:

1. **Site Visit and Inspection**: Environmental consultants visit the property to visually inspect the site and its surroundings. They look for any signs of current or past uses that could indicate potential environmental contamination, such as storage tanks, chemical spills, or industrial operations.

2. **Review of Historical Records**: Consultants review historical documents, including aerial photographs, historical maps, building permits, and regulatory records, to identify any past activities that might have caused environmental contamination.

3. **Interviews and Research**: The consultants may conduct interviews with current and past property owners, occupants, and neighboring businesses to gather information about the property's history and potential environmental risks.

4. **Regulatory Database Review**: Environmental consultants search regulatory databases to identify any known environmental concerns or regulatory violations associated with the property or neighboring sites.

5. **Report Preparation**: Based on the findings from the site visit, document review, and research, the consultants prepare a Phase I ESA report. This report summarizes the environmental conditions of the property, identifies any recognized environmental conditions (RECs), and provides recommendations for further action, such as additional investigations or remediation measures.

6. **Conclusion and Recommendations**: The Phase I ESA report concludes whether the property is likely to have environmental contamination or liabilities that could affect the transaction. Depending on the findings, recommendations may include proceeding with the transaction as-is, conducting further investigation (Phase II ESA), or implementing mitigation measures.

It's important to note that while a Phase I ESA can identify potential environmental concerns, it does not typically involve sampling or testing of soil, water, or air. If potential contamination is identified during the Phase I ESA, further investigation through a Phase II ESA may be recommended to assess the extent and severity of contamination through sampling and analysis.