Vapor Intrusion or Encroachment released updates E2600-15: Standard Guide for Vapor Encroachment Screening on Property Involved in Real Estate Transactions how Environmental Consulting practice Subsurface Investigations Vapor Intrusion risk is – deservedly – receiving much greater attention during environmental site assessments than it was several years ago. How does vapor intrusion risk impact multifamily owners and lenders? Nicole: Why is the question of how vapor migration risk should be assessed and classified still such a hot issue in the environmental industry? Kristine : ASTM E2600-15 was implemented last year to provide improved guidance, but it hasn't been consistently interpreted across the industry. The guide identifies two tiers of assessment to evaluate whether a vapor encroachment condition exists: Tier 1, which provides an initial evaluation based on specific sources of information; and Tier 2, which may include the collection of samples to determine actual conditions at the property. I frequently see requirements of ASTM E2600-15 inconsistently or incorrectly applied, especially when it comes to the collection and interpretation of data for the Tier 2 Screening. Of course, using incorrect data means issues of concern can't be accurately quantified and remedial systems can't be properly designed as needed. This leads to wasted effort on the consultant's part, and wasted money for the client. Nicole: It is critical that the consultant properly communicates the Tiers and requirements along with the respective costs ahead of time to ensure the client's needs are being met. It sounds obvious but you'd be surprised at how many clients didn't get the right product for their needs. How are multifamily lenders adjusting their scope of work to incorporate the new standard? Nicole: The introduction of ASTM E2600-15 has changed the regulatory climate around vapor risk. How should the industry evaluate reports or recommendations for No-Further-Action (“NFA”) made by a consultant or a regulatory agency before the new standard was issued? Kristine: Nicole: Recognized Environmental Condition (REC) Phase II Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) Terminology did not change in ASTM E2600-15, but it continues to create confusion in the industry nonetheless: How does a Vapor Intrusion Concern (VIC) differ from a Vapor Encroachment Concern (VEC), and when are either of those considered to be a Recognized Environmental Condition (REC)? Nicole: Vapor intrusion is the process by which chemicals in soil or groundwater migrate to indoor air above a contaminated site causing indoor air quality issues. Vapor Encroachment is the process by which chemicals in soil or groundwater migrate to the surface on a contaminated site, but do not necessarily lead to vapor intrusion into the on-site buildings. Vapor Intrusion Concern (VIC) Partner Engineering and Science, Inc., and GlobeSt.com are currently conducting an online survey to take the temperature on how the industry views and approaches environmental risks like vapor intrusion. We'd love you to share your insights! The survey will only take 10 minutes of your time, and you may enter your name to be entered in the drawing for one of three (3) $100 American Express gift cards. Take the Survey Now!

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Confusion Surrounding Vapor Intrusion Risk

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