Environmental · Defined
Desktop environmental review
A limited review of agreed environmental records and information, generally without site reconnaissance unless separately included. The scope is tailored to the decision being supported.
Why it matters
Its limitations should be explicit. A desktop review does not become a Phase I ESA simply because it uses some of the same databases. Prior reports, historical information, and unresolved gaps may influence whether a more complete assessment is needed.
In practice
A project example
A lender screens a portfolio using available reports and records, then commissions further review for properties with material gaps or concerns.
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.