Phase II Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) FAQ

When a Phase I ESA identifies potential risks, a Phase II ESA provides the testing and analysis needed to confirm whether contamination is present. Oak Environmental delivers NJDEP-compliant, lender-ready Phase II reports to protect property buyers, lenders, and attorneys in New Jersey.

What is a Phase II ESA?

A Phase II ESA tests the soil, groundwater, or air to check for contamination. It tells you if there’s a real problem under the ground.

When do I need a Phase II ESA?

You need one when a Phase I ESA finds signs of possible contamination—like old tanks, spills, or past industrial use (called a "Recognized Environmental Condition" or REC).

What does a Phase II ESA include?

It includes site testing, lab analysis, a review of results, and a clear report showing if there are environmental risks.

Does a Phase II mean the site is unsafe?

Not always. It just means we need to test and find out. Sometimes results come back clean, and no additional action is needed.

How long does a Phase II take?

Most Phase IIs take 1 to 3 weeks, depending on how much testing is needed and how fast the lab can process the samples.

What kind of samples are taken?

It depends on what the Phase I found.

We usually take soil, groundwater, and sometimes vapor samples.

What happens if contamination is found?

We’ll explain what it means and what to do next. The site may need cleanup or a plan to manage the issue, depending on the results.

Do I need a Phase II to get financing?

Sometimes. If the Phase I raised concerns, banks may require Phase II testing before they approve a loan or close the deal.

Can I do a Phase II without a Phase I?

It’s not recommended. A Phase I helps guide where to test, so your Phase II is targeted and cost-effective.

Why choose Oak Environmental for my Phase II?

We’re fast, NJDEP-compliant, and explain everything in plain language. Our expert team helps you protect your deal and avoid delays.

What is a Phase II Environmental Site Assessment?

A Phase II ESA is a site investigation that tests soil, groundwater, or vapor to confirm whether contamination exists on a property. It is guided by the findings of the Phase I ESA and follows ASTM standards.

When is a Phase II ESA required in New Jersey?

A Phase II ESA is typically required when a Phase I ESA identifies a Recognized Environmental Condition (REC), such as:

• Past use of the property for industrial or commercial operations

• Historical spills or discharges

• Evidence of underground storage tanks (USTs) or petroleum use

• NJDEP case history or open environmental files

Lenders often require a Phase II before approving financing if contamination is suspected.

What does a Phase II ESA include?

A Phase II ESA usually involves:

1. Drilling or soil borings to collect soil samples

2. Installing monitoring wells for groundwater sampling

3. Collecting vapor samples if indoor air risk is suspected

4. Laboratory analysis for petroleum, solvents, or metals

5. Preparation of a lender-ready, NJDEP-compliant report

How long does a Phase II ESA take?

Most Phase II ESAs take 1 day on-site, depending on the scope of sampling and laboratory turnaround times. Oak Environmental prioritizes fast, reliable investigations and reporting to keep deals moving forward.

Does needing a Phase II mean the property is contaminated?

Not necessarily. A Phase II is conducted to confirm or rule out potential risks. In many cases, testing shows no contamination, and the property can move forward without remediation.

What happens if contamination is found during a Phase II ESA?

If contamination is confirmed, Oak Environmental will:

• Clearly explain the findings in plain language

• Provide experience-based solutions

• Develop a plan that complies with NJDEP’s Site Remediation Program

• Work toward achieving the clearance needed for property transactions

Can I do a Phase II without a Phase I ESA?

It is not recommended. A Phase I ESA identifies where contamination is most likely, ensuring the Phase II is targeted, cost-effective, and defensible. Without a Phase I, unnecessary or misdirected sampling can increase costs.

Why choose Oak Environmental for a Phase II ESA?

Oak Environmental provides:

• Environmental Professionals with decades of New Jersey environmental experience

• Reports that are accepted by lenders and attorneys

• Clear, transparent communication with buyers, sellers, and lenders

• Fast turnaround to prevent delays in real estate deals

Our mission: Clarity. Compliance. Fast Results.

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