Due Diligence

To support the land pre-purchase due diligence process, we conduct site appraisals to determine potential abnormal development costs.

We identify worst case remediation costs for dealing with identified contamination, as well as providing our client with options for minimising remediation costs to allow for a feasible development.

Desk Study

PHASE 1 assessments comprise the collation of desk based data together with information gained from a site walkover survey. This phase of investigation provides an initial overview of the nature and extent of geotechnical or contamination hazards that may exist.

The desk study typically includes a review of historical maps and aerial photographs, consideration of the geological and hydrogeological setting of the site from published sources, contact with regulatory authorities and retrieval of information from database resources.

Desk studies are critical in revealing potential ground hazards such as potentially contaminating land uses (current and historic), pollution incidents, mining hazards, naturally occurring radon gas, etc. Desk studies also help to understand the wider environmental setting of the site so that potential receptors to contamination, such as groundwater and surface water resources, can be identified.

The desk study provides information on the potential liabilities a site poses, from a qualitative viewpoint.

The site walkover allows the site and its surroundings to be inspected. It includes an assessment for potential indicators of contamination, such as distressed vegetation, discoloured soils, polluted water and waste materials (including asbestos if present). Potential ground problems can thus be identified during the walkover.

The information from the Phase 1 assessment is used to develop a “Conceptual Site Model”, which forms the basis for the Phase 2 intrusive investigation, should one be considered necessary.

We can generally produce a comprehensive desk study report within a week of receiving formal instructions to proceed.