Council PSI/SEPP 55

Comprehensive PSI Services

Caldera Environmental conducts initial-stage environmental investigations, including PSIs and desktop environmental due diligence (EDD). Our comprehensive PSI services include:

Historical Records Review: We review historical records, including council records, historical aerial photographs, EPA records, and land titles, to identify past activities that may have caused contamination.
Site Inspection: Our team conducts detailed site inspections to identify visual signs of contamination and assess current site conditions. This includes evaluating neighbouring properties for potential contamination sources.
Conceptual Site Model (CSM): We develop a CSM to understand potential contamination sources, transport mechanisms, and receptors. This model helps in assessing the risk and planning further investigations if necessary.
Preliminary Reporting: We compile our findings into a comprehensive PSI report, which includes recommendations for further investigations or remediation if required. This report is designed to meet the requirements of regulators and financial institutions.
Expertise and Accreditation
Caldera Environmental’s in-house Certified Environmental Practitioners (CEnvP) design and sign off on all works completed. Our CEnvP-accredited staff bring a wealth of expertise and ensure that all investigations are conducted to the highest standards. This accreditation provides assurance to clients that our assessments are thorough, reliable, and compliant with regulatory requirements.
Importance of Professional Expertise
Engaging experienced and knowledgeable environmental consultants is essential for effective PSI and SEPP 55 assessments. Caldera Environmental’s team brings a wealth of expertise, ensuring that every project is handled with precision and care. Our commitment to excellence and compliance ensures that we deliver results that are not only effective but also sustainable and legally sound.

Contamination can severely impact property value and is often underestimated in decision making, negotiations, and liability risk. A Preliminary Site Investigation (PSI), also known as a Phase 1 Investigation, is a process that helps identify potential environmental risks and contaminants on a site.

Importance of PSI/SEPP 55

Undertaking a PSI/SEPP 55 prior to development is a critical part of the due diligence process. This investigation is essential for several reasons:

Risk Management: Identifying potential contamination early helps manage risks associated with property transactions and development projects. It prevents unexpected liabilities and costly remediation efforts down the line.
Regulatory Compliance: Councils and regulatory authorities require PSIs to ensure that land is safe for its intended use. Compliance with SEPP 55 (State Environmental Planning Policy No. 55 – Remediation of Land) and the National Environmental Protection (Assessment of Site Contamination) Measure (NEPM) is mandatory for development applications.
Informed Decision Making: A thorough PSI provides valuable information that aids in making informed decisions about property purchases, development plans, and potential remediation needs.
Financial Assurance: Financial institutions often require environmental due diligence reports, including PSIs, before approving loans for property transactions. Ensuring that a site is free from significant contamination can facilitate smoother financial transactions.

Recent Projects

Caldera Environmental has recently undertaken and provided guidance for PSIs and SEPP 55 assessments in various locations, including Brisbane, Newcastle, Sydney, Northern NSW, Tamworth, and the Sunshine Coast. These projects involved comprehensive site assessments, historical records reviews, and detailed site inspections to identify potential contamination risks and ensure compliance with regulatory standards.