Environmental · Defined
Controlled recognized environmental condition (CREC)
An ASTM Phase I ESA classification concerning a qualifying release that has been addressed with contamination allowed to remain subject to required controls or restrictions.
Why it matters
The controls are part of the property’s continuing operating obligations. Their nature, documentation, and relevance to planned use need review. A completed cleanup does not necessarily mean that future excavation, groundwater use, or redevelopment is unrestricted.
In practice
A project example
A property may have a recorded restriction governing soil disturbance. A proposed excavation needs to account for that requirement before work begins.
General educational guidance from KOW Building Consultants. Examples are illustrative, not project records. The applicable contract, standard, program, and jurisdiction control the requirements for a specific assignment.