Across the industry, a Phase I Environmental Site Assessment for a typical commercial property often costs somewhere between $2,000 and $5,000. Large, complex or heavily industrial sites can cost considerably more. Prices vary by firm, region, property type and turnaround time, and many firms quote each project individually.
Breeze takes a different approach: $2,450 flat for every property type up to 640 acres (one square mile), anywhere in the United States, including properties made up of more than one parcel. Rush delivery in about 5 days is $3,200 total.
What drives Phase I pricing
- Property type and history. Many firms charge more for industrial sites, gas stations or properties with long, complicated histories, because the records review takes longer.
- Size and number of parcels. Large acreage or multiple tax lots can add field time and research.
- Location. Travel to rural sites often adds cost with firms that don't have local field staff.
- Turnaround. Rush delivery usually carries a premium.
- Add-ons. Asbestos, lead paint, radon, wetlands or vapor screening are outside the standard ASTM scope and are priced separately.
- Reliance letters. Some firms charge to extend reliance to a lender or second party.
Watch for these extras when comparing quotes
A low headline price can grow quickly. Before you sign, ask whether the quote includes the database report, historical maps and aerials, the site visit and travel, lender reliance, and any surcharges for building size or use. Ask how change orders work if the property turns out to have more history than expected.
The Breeze price includes the site visit, all database and historical records, the signed report and a reliance letter to your lender on request. There are no surcharges for property use, building size or extra lots.
Is the cheapest Phase I a good idea?
Only if it meets the standard. A report that doesn't conform to ASTM E1527-21 may be rejected by your lender and may not support the CERCLA liability protections you're paying for. Look for a signed Environmental Professional declaration, a real site visit, the full set of historical sources and clear findings. Breeze backs every report with a money-back guarantee: if it doesn't meet ASTM, we fix it or refund you.
Volume and portfolio pricing
Lenders, brokers, developers and multi-site operators who order regularly can usually get better pricing. Breeze offers special volume pricing for repeat and portfolio clients.
What if the Phase I leads to a Phase II?
If the Phase I identifies a recognized environmental condition, sampling may be recommended. Phase II costs depend entirely on scope. See Phase II ESA cost and timeline.
Frequently asked questions
How much is a Phase I ESA?
Industry pricing for typical commercial properties often falls between about $2,000 and $5,000. Breeze charges $2,450 flat nationwide for every property type up to 640 acres, with rush delivery for $3,200 total.
Does a bigger property cost more?
With many firms, yes. At Breeze, the flat price covers every property type up to 640 acres, including multi-parcel sites.
Who pays for the Phase I, the buyer or the seller?
Usually the buyer or borrower, because they rely on it for financing and liability protection. Who pays is negotiable in the purchase contract.
This article is general information about environmental due diligence and is not legal advice. Requirements can change; confirm specifics with your lender or attorney.
