Phase II Environmental Site Assessment

CORE Environmental Consultants performs a detailed Phase II Environmental Site Assessment to determine whether hazardous substances are present in soil, groundwater, or soil vapor beneath a site. Typically initiated in response to Recognized Environmental Conditions (RECs) identified during a Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ESA), Phase II investigations provide critical data to evaluate risks, satisfy regulatory requirements, and support redevelopment planning.

Our approach combines thoughtful planning, precise fieldwork, and defensible reporting to guide decision-making and regulatory compliance.

When Is a Phase II Environmental Site Assessment Needed?

A Phase II Environmental Site Assessment is typically recommended or required when:

• A Phase I ESA identifies RECs, such as former USTs, dry cleaners, fill materials, or spill reports
• Environmental concerns must be ruled out to support property transactions or refinancing
• Regulatory agencies request confirmation sampling under Brownfield, E-Designation, or VCP programs
• Subsurface conditions need to be assessed for site design, excavation, or health risk mitigation
• Vapor intrusion, soil disposal, or off-site migration concerns must be addressed

CORE works closely with project stakeholders to scope investigations that are appropriately scaled to risk, regulatory triggers, and redevelopment plans.

Our Phase II Environmental Site Assessment Process

1. Work Plan Development

We begin by reviewing the Phase I findings, site history, and redevelopment goals to develop a site-specific sampling plan. This plan includes:

• Targeted sample locations based on historical use, topography, and infrastructure
• Sampling methods (e.g., direct-push, auger drilling, monitoring well installation)
• Target analytes based on suspected contaminants (e.g., VOCs, SVOCs, metals, PCBs, PFAS)
• Field safety protocols and regulatory references (DER-10, ASTM, or local guidance)

Our work plans are designed to meet the requirements of NYSDEC, NYC OER, or lending institutions, depending on the project context.

2. Field Sampling Activities

CORE’s licensed environmental field team performs onsite subsurface investigations using:

• Soil borings to collect samples at varying depths for lab analysis
• Groundwater sampling from temporary or permanent monitoring wells
• Soil vapor or sub-slab vapor sampling to evaluate vapor intrusion pathways
• Surficial or fill characterization to assess off-site disposal requirements

All sampling is conducted using calibrated equipment, PPE, and proper decontamination techniques. Chain-of-custody protocols are followed from field to lab to ensure data integrity.

3. Laboratory Analysis

Samples are submitted to a NELAC- or ELAP-accredited laboratory for analysis under EPA SW-846 or NYSDEC Analytical Services Protocol (ASP), depending on the project scope.

Analytical parameters may include:

• Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
• Semi-volatile organic compounds (SVOCs)
• Heavy metals (e.g., lead, arsenic, chromium)
• Total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH)
• Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs)
• Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)
• Pesticides and herbicides

Data are validated and reviewed for exceedances against NYSDEC Part 375 or other applicable regulatory thresholds.

4. Data Evaluation & Reporting

Following analysis, CORE prepares a comprehensive report that includes:

• Sampling rationale and field methods
• Soil boring logs and groundwater elevation data
• Laboratory results with applicable standards
• Conceptual site model (CSM) and cross-sections
• Identification of contaminant impacts, if present
• Recommendations for additional investigation, remediation, or no further action

Reports are structured to support follow-up with regulators, legal counsel, engineers, or environmental insurers.

Why CORE?

✅ Responsive, Scalable Investigations
Whether a small commercial parcel or a multi-acre redevelopment, we tailor investigations to fit your scope, risk profile, and budget.

✅ Experienced Field Professionals
CORE’s team includes OSHA-trained technicians and licensed geologists with deep experience in drilling oversight, well installation, and site characterization.

✅ Regulatory Alignment
Our methods align with NYSDEC DER-10, NYC OER Technical Guidance, and EPA guidance, ensuring your results are defensible and accepted by agencies.

✅ Seamless Next Steps
If contaminants are found, CORE can quickly support Phase III remedial planning, RAP preparation, or enrollment in Brownfield or VCP programs.