Phase 1 Desk Study Services & Reports

Fast, Reliable Preliminary Risk Assessments from Technics Group 

At Technics Group, we deliver expert Phase 1 Desk Studies tailored to support land development, planning applications, and due diligence processes. Whether you’re purchasing land, submitting a planning application, or need an environmental report for regulatory compliance, our desk studies provide the insight you need quickly and affordably. 

What is a Phase 1 Desk Study, and why might I need one?

A Phase 1 Desk Study is a preliminary risk assessment that evaluates potential ground contamination and environmental risk associated with a site. This involves: 

  • Reviewing historical maps and land use. 
  • Analysing geological, hydrogeological, and hydrological data. 
  • Identifying nearby environmental hazards (e.g. landfills, industrial sites). 
  • Engaging with local authority records and environmental databases. 

This report helps you to understand the environmental and geotechnical context of a site and determine whether a Phase 2 Site Investigation is needed. The data also identifies any risks that may impact future site use or development.  

You may require a Phase Desk Study for the following: 

  • Support a planning application. 
  • Comply with contaminated land regulations (Part 2A of the Environmental Protection Act 1990). 
  • Satisfy lender or mortgage requirements. 
  • Conduct due diligence before land acquisition. 
  • Identify potential liabilities or remediation needs 

Our reports are essential for ensuring smooth site procedures and help to reduce the risk of costly delays, planning refusals, and remedial actions. 

Our Phase 1 Desk Study Services 

We offer two levels of Phase 1 Desk Study reports tailored to your specific needs: 

Level 1: Comprehensive Phase 1 Desk Study with Site Walkover Survey 

Ideal for development sites up to 5 hectares, planning submissions, or sites with visible concerns 

  • Includes a detailed site walkover survey by a qualified practitioner 
  • Full interpretative report with visual observations 
  • Delivered within 6 working days of payment and access 

Prices from £800 + VAT 

Level 2: Desk-Based Phase 1 Study (No Site Walkover Survey) 

Ideal for: Smaller sites or early-stage evaluations 

  • Fully desk-based environmental risk assessment 
  • Same high-quality interpretative report, without site visit 
  • Delivered within 1 working day of payment 

Prices from £550 + VAT 

What’s Included in a Technics Phase 1 Desk Study Report? 

Our Phase 1 reports are clear, professional, and fully tailored to your site. Every report includes: 

  • Historical Land Use Analysis: A review of historical maps and records to identify past site activities that may influence current site conditions. 
  • Geological and Hydrogeological Assessment: An evaluation of soil, rock, and groundwater conditions to determine any geotechnical or contamination risks present at the site. 
  • Environmental Setting Review: An assessment of the site’s environmental context, including potential flood risks, radon potential, and proximity to landfills or waste sites. 
  • Regulatory Consultations: Engage with relevant local authorities to gather insights from Contaminated Land or Environmental Units and ensure compliance with planning requirements. 

Comprehensive reports also include further information on the above, along with a summary of the current site conditions and surrounding areas based on observations made during the site walkover. 

Why Choose Our Phase 1 Desk Studies?

  • Interpretative Reporting: Our reports go beyond data compilation. We provide interpretative analyses that consider your specific project objectives, offering clear guidance on potential risks and recommended actions. 
  • Fixed Pricing: We offer transparent, fixed pricing for our services.
  • Prompt Delivery: We understand the importance of timely information. Comprehensive reports are typically delivered within 6 working days, subject to site access for walkover surveys, while basic reports can be issued within 1 working day of payment receipt.

How to Get Started 

To book a Phase 1 Desk Study with Technics Groups please contact us to discuss the specifics of your site and choose the appropriate level of service. We will then require provided site information, including: 

  • The site’s location, planned developments, and any historical uses.  

We are happy to assist you in finding and providing any necessary information. 

Once we have received payment and the necessary information above, we will commence the study and deliver your report within the agreed timeframe. 

Want to learn more or ask us a question about our Phase 1 Desk Studies? If you would like to discuss how Technics can support your project, call your nearest Technics office or email enquiries@technicsgroup.com to get started with your Phase 1 Desk Study.