Environmental · Defined
Recognized environmental condition (REC)
A classification under the applicable ASTM Phase I ESA practice for certain conditions involving the presence, likely presence, or material threat of release of hazardous substances or petroleum products.
Why it matters
The report should explain the evidence and classification using the applicable standard, rather than use REC as a general label for anything undesirable. A REC is not a cleanup-cost estimate. Additional investigation may be needed to characterize the condition.
In practice
A project example
Historical industrial operations and supporting records may warrant further evaluation even when a walk-through reveals no visible spill.
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.