HETI also performs complete and cost-competitive Environmental Site Assessments (ESAs) for property transfers or changes in property usage. These are performed to client specifications, or to ASTM standards for Phase I assessments (ASTM E-1527) or transaction screens (ASTM E-1528).

HETI specializes in fast-response ESAs. We begin with a site walkover and a detailed historical review. We examine State, local and Federal files and conduct interviews with officials. From the information gathered, we present an opinion as to whether potential "recognized environmental conditions" or other significant environmental issues are associated with the property in question. If a potential problem is identified, an appropriate recommendation is presented and, if desired, estimates of environmental liabilities are prepared. All reports and recommendations are reviewed by senior staff, generally a registered or licensed professional in the relevant State.

When additional subsurface investigation is recommended to define the problem, HETI conducts all data collection and technical oversight, including the employment of various drilling, sampling, and surveying techniques. The results of these investigations become the basis for the final environmental assessment report…that contains both the required factual information and the clear, unambiguous professional opinions necessary to evaluate the risk of liability involved in the property transfer.

HETI has performed hundreds of site assessments for such clients as lending institutions, developers, attorneys, insurance companies and private clients. ESA projects have included large, multi-property portfolios in several states; simple, small commercial properties such as liquor stores or restaurants; complex manufacturing facilities; large vacant properties slated for development; etc.

Representative Project *

Real Estate Portfolio, Desk Reviews (Multi-State) – One of the largest private owners of affordable housing in the United States, based in California, has retained HETI to evaluate Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) reports by other environmental consultants to assist in their financing decisions on new properties to be added to their growing portfolio. HETI reviews these ESAs for conformance with ASTM Standards for commercial properties and evaluates any environmental concerns and regulatory implications for remediated and contaminated property. In the past few years, HETI has advised the client on environmental matters related to their investment in more than 250 properties, such as multi-family residential properties – helping them satisfy fiduciary responsibility, avoid compromised properties, and understand environmental implications when financing remediated sites.

* This is a brief description of an Environmental Site Assessment project completed by HETI. For a more complete discussion of our capabilities, please contact us for a copy of our Statement of Qualifications.