Contaminated Land Assessment
What It Is
A Contaminated Land Assessment investigates whether a site contains harmful substances in soil, groundwater, or surface water that could pose risks to human health, property, or the environment. These assessments are a statutory requirement under the Environmental Protection Act 1990 and are often mandated by planning authorities before development can proceed.
Why It Matters — Risks Without It
❌ Refusal or significant delays in planning approval
⚠️ Unexpected contamination causing costly remediation during construction
📣 Liability for future claims from occupants, neighbours, or regulators
🧾 Breach of planning conditions, Environmental Permitting Regulations, or Part 2A duties
What’s Measured
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Soil and groundwater contamination (heavy metals, hydrocarbons, asbestos, solvents, etc.)
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Pollution linkages between contaminants, pathways, and receptors (humans, buildings, watercourses)
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Environmental risks to controlled waters, ecosystems, and property
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Compliance thresholds based on DEFRA/EA guidelines
How It Works
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Phase 1 (Desk Study): Review of historic land use, mapping, and environmental data
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Phase 2 (Intrusive Investigation): Boreholes, soil sampling, groundwater testing
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Laboratory analysis for contaminants against regulatory standards
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Risk assessment report with recommendations for remediation or further investigation
Who It’s For
🏗️ Developers purchasing or redeveloping brownfield land
🏛️ Planning consultants and architects preparing applications
🏢 Local authorities needing independent verification of site safety
🛠️ Contractors and landowners requiring clearance before site works
What You Get
📄 A planning-ready report aligned with EA and local authority requirements
📊 Laboratory data on soil and groundwater contamination levels
🧠 Clear risk assessment and remediation recommendations
✅ Evidence to satisfy planning conditions and demonstrate due diligence
De-risk Your Development, Protect Your Investment
A Contaminated Land Assessment ensures that land is safe, legally compliant, and suitable for its intended use — giving developers, planners, and regulators the confidence to proceed.
