Assessing the evidence of site contamination. An engineering view

Assessment of a contamination problem requires, at a minimum, that you establish the magnitude, type, and extent of contamination and evaluate the degree of risk to human health and the environment. The degree of risk to human health and the environment is a key driver of the remediation plan. If the risk is judged to be relatively small, remediation may consist of less costly measures. If the risk is large and immediate action is required, the associated costs and potential liabilities (such as people becoming affected by the contamination) are correspondingly much higher and may be judged unacceptable to you as a potential buyer. This determination and the kind of data needed for a risk analysis are not usually part of a due-deligence survey and may necessitate a more extensive remedial investigation.