Contaminated Land & Ground
Phase 1 Preliminary Risk Assessment
LCRM-compliant assessments that identify contamination risks early and avoid unnecessary investigation.
At a glance
- Accepted by planning authorities UK-wide
- Fixed fee, quoted up front
- Fast, reliable turnaround
- One accountable point of contact
What it is
A Phase 1 Preliminary Risk Assessment (desk study) reviews a site's history, geology and setting to build a conceptual site model and identify potential contaminant linkages (source–pathway–receptor).
When you need it
Commonly conditioned on brownfield or previously developed sites, or where a sensitive end use such as housing is proposed.
What you get
What's included
Historical map and land-use review
Environmental and geological data search
Site walkover and conceptual site model
Qualitative risk assessment and clear recommendations
A thorough Phase 1 is the cheapest insurance there is — done well, it frequently avoids the cost and delay of intrusive Phase 2 investigation.
Not sure whether you need a Phase 1 Preliminary Risk Assessment?
Send us your site postcode and a brief description of your proposed development, and we'll tell you whether a Phase 1 Preliminary Risk Assessment is likely to be required and what level of assessment your site may need — usually within a day, at no cost.
How it works
From quote to consent
Share your site
Send the postcode, plans and any council correspondence — we confirm scope and fee up front.
We assess & value-engineer
Our specialists prepare your Phase 1 Preliminary Risk Assessment, finding the most cost-effective route that still satisfies the regulator.
Consent-ready report
A clear report the authority will accept, with us on hand for any queries or conditions.
Standards we work to
Key considerations
The regulations, tests and terminology behind every Phase 1 Preliminary Risk Assessment we produce.
FAQs
Frequently asked
Is a desk study the same as a preliminary risk assessment?
Yes — the Phase 1 Preliminary Risk Assessment and the desk study are the same report.
Will I still need a Phase 2?
Not always. A robust Phase 1 can discharge the condition on its own where risks are low; we tell you honestly either way.
How long does it take?
Typically one to two weeks from instruction.
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Tell us about your site
Send us your location and plans for a fast, fixed-fee quote — and honest advice on exactly which reports you do and don't need.