Phase II Environmental Site Assessment in California

Remediating Problems from Phase I

If the findings from Phase I indicate that your site has a history of regulatory violations or was used to handle harmful components, then a Phase II Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) is necessary to identify potential disturbances in the subsoil, groundwater, or air. Common issues found in Phase 1 can include the following:

Mold
Fluorescent lamps
Petroleum
Chemicals (from improper waste disposal)
Asbestos
Lead
Leaks from underground storage tanks

These red flags uncovered during the Phase 1 assessment don’t confirm contamination, but they do suggest the possibility. That’s where Phase II comes in. Digging deeper helps determine whether environmental hazards actually exist on the site and what their extent might be.

Why You Need a Phase II Environmental Site Assessment in California

A Phase II ESA is essential for evaluating environmental risks and meeting California’s rigorous environmental protection laws, such as those enforced by the California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) and the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB). Here's why Phase 2 assessments are necessary:

Protect Public Health and the Environment

Phase II assessments detect contaminants like volatile organic compounds (VOCs), heavy metals, and petroleum products that pose health risks to occupants, neighbors, and surrounding ecosystems. Early detection enables timely and targeted remediation.

Meet California Regulatory Requirements

California environmental regulations are among the strictest in the nation. A comprehensive Phase II ESA helps you comply with federal standards (e.g., CERCLA, RCRA), state mandates, and local ordinances, avoiding costly violations or delays.

Limit Legal Liability

Environmental contamination left unchecked can result in lawsuits, fines, or state-mandated cleanup orders. Conducting a Phase II ESA demonstrates due diligence and provides legal protection for property owners, developers, and investors.

Make Smart Investment and Development Decisions

Phase II ESAs provide crucial insight into the true condition of a property. Understanding potential cleanup costs and liabilities allows you to negotiate better, plan smarter, and protect your financial interests.

Our Process for Phase II Environmental Site Assessments in California

Though each project varies by location and scope, a typical Phase II ESA in California follows these core steps:

Site-Specific Planning and Investigation Design

Using data from the Phase I ESA and knowledge of California’s diverse geology, our licensed geologists and engineers design a targeted investigation plan to address potential areas of concern.

Permit Acquisition

Intrusive sampling often requires boring and drilling permits, particularly in urban areas or near sensitive environmental zones. We manage the permitting process with agencies such as the California Regional Water Quality Control Boards and local building departments.

Field Sampling and Laboratory Analysis

Our experienced field team collects soil, groundwater, vapor, or surface water samples using California-standard practices. All samples are tested in certified laboratories to detect contamination levels and determine whether they exceed California Human Health Screening Levels (CHHSLs) or other relevant benchmarks.

Remediation Recommendations and Final Reporting

If contamination is found, our report includes clear, actionable recommendations—such as a Soil Management Plan or Remedial Action Plan—to help you comply with state laws and minimize future risk. All findings and regulatory context are documented in a final, legally defensible report. Once the report is finalized and if results show no significant environmental concerns, you can confidently proceed with property acquisition, development, or refinancing.

A Guide to California Phase II ESAs

Phase II site assessments are a part of our comprehensive environmental engineering services. Here is what you can expect:

Beware of Cut-Rate Assessments

Low-cost providers may skip key testing steps or use unqualified personnel. In California’s highly regulated environment, an incomplete Phase II ESA can result in major liabilities. Always work with firms experienced in California-specific requirements.

Permit Requirements

Most sites in California require permits for soil disturbance or groundwater sampling. Our team handles the paperwork to ensure timely approval and full compliance with state and local laws.

State-Certified Oversight

All Phase II work must be supervised by a California-licensed Professional Geologist (PG) or Professional Engineer (PE). Their certification ensures the validity and credibility of your final report.

Adherence to OSHA and ASTM Standards

We strictly follow OSHA regulations and ASTM E1903 protocols to protect worker safety and deliver accurate, standardized results.

Safety First: Site Access is Limited

Because environmental investigations involve heavy equipment, open boreholes, and potential chemical exposure, site access is restricted to trained professionals during fieldwork.

Contact Us for Phase II Environmental Site Assessments in California

At GeoKinetics, we understand California’s complex environmental regulations and how to navigate them. Our team of state-certified geologists, engineers, and environmental scientists ensures your assessment is thorough, accurate, and fully compliant.

Protect your investment, your reputation, and the environment. Contact us today for a trusted Phase II ESA that gives you the resources and reassurance to move forward.