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Environmental Assessment

Explore environmental assessments in Canadian real estate — what they include, when they’re needed, and how they guide development and land use decisions.

Environmental Assessment

June 06, 2025


What is an Environmental Assessment?

An environmental assessment is a formal process used to evaluate the environmental impacts of a proposed real estate development or land use change.

Why Environmental Assessments Matter in Real Estate

In Canadian real estate, environmental assessments are often required for large developments, infrastructure projects, or when contamination is suspected.



Assessments include:
  • Phase I (historical use review)
  • Phase II (sampling/testing for contaminants)
  • Phase III (remediation planning if necessary)



These studies help ensure environmental safety, protect public health, and determine land suitability for intended use. They also influence zoning, permitting, and financing decisions.



Understanding environmental assessments is critical for developers, buyers, and lenders evaluating potential risk or liability.

Example of an Environmental Assessment in Action

Before purchasing an industrial site, the buyer commissions a Phase I environmental assessment to identify potential soil or groundwater contamination.

Key Takeaways

  • Required for many developments
  • Identifies contamination and risk
  • Conducted in three escalating phases
  • Impacts zoning and financing
  • Promotes safe, sustainable land use

Related Terms

Additional Terms

Construction Loan

A construction loan is a short-term, interim financing option used to fund the building or major renovation of a property, with funds disbursed in. more

Certificate of Occupancy

A certificate of occupancy is an official document issued by a municipal authority confirming that a building complies with applicable codes and is. more

Bylaw Variance

A bylaw variance is official permission granted by a municipal authority allowing a property owner to deviate from local zoning or building bylaw. more

Absorption Rate

Absorption rate is a metric that measures the rate at which available properties are sold or leased in a specific market over a given period.. more

Corporate Restructuring

Corporate restructuring refers to the reorganization of a company’s operations, assets, or liabilities, often under court supervision, to improve. more

Consumer Proposal

A consumer proposal is a formal, legally binding agreement in Canada between an individual and their creditors to repay a portion of their debt over. more

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