Ways to Identify Property Contamination

Industrial facility owners, developers, and property managers all face the challenge of confirming that their land is safe for people and the environment. Learn how soil pollution occurs, the steps to test for contaminated ground, and how to move forward with cleanup or redevelopment.

What Is Contaminated Soil?

Soil is contaminated when chemicals, metals, or other hazardous substances are present at levels that may threaten human health or the environment. Contamination often stems from legacy operations, fuel storage, waste handling, and stormwater runoff.

Contamination can be localized (for example, a leaking tank pit) or widespread (perhaps due to improper disposal practices in the past). A thorough assessment is necessary to determine where impacts occur, whether exposure pathways are present, and what cleanup options are available.

Types of Soil Contaminants

Urban and industrial properties often contain a mix of pollutants, such as:

Petroleum hydrocarbons (gasoline, diesel, and oils)
Volatile organic compounds (Benzene, TCE, and toluene)
Heavy metals (lead, arsenic, and hexavalent chromium)
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, or PAHs (combustion byproducts)
Excess nutrients (nitrogen and phosphorus)

How to Detect Contaminated Land

The environmental consulting division at EnviroBEE performs soil and groundwater sampling. Here’s how we confirm whether your site is contaminated and what actions to take next:

Preliminary review: Our team gathers site history, past reports, and available permits to understand how the property has been used. This step helps identify potential contamination sources such as fuel storage, waste handling, or chemical use.
Site reconnaissance: We visit the property to look for visible signs of unhealthy soil, including stained earth, stressed vegetation, chemical odors, or remnants of old storage tanks.
Sampling plan: Based on site conditions, we develop a detailed sampling strategy that targets the areas most likely to be affected. The plan outlines where to collect soil and groundwater samples and which contaminants to test for.
Field investigation: Our specialists collect soil, groundwater, and soil gas samples. We use the proper drilling methods to prevent cross-contamination and follow chain-of-custody procedures to maintain legal and scientific credibility. Each sample is labeled and sent to an accredited laboratory for analysis.
Data evaluation and recommendations: Once the results are in, our environmental consultants interpret the data, compare it to state and federal standards, and prepare a clear summary of the findings. If contamination is confirmed, we outline corrective actions and coordinate remediation activities to restore site safety.

What To Do If Your Site Is Contaminated

EnviroBEE provides a structured plan to contain contaminated soil or groundwater and move toward cleanup. Here’s what this entails:

Limit exposure and prevent further migration.
Focus on long-term solutions that meet regulatory standards and project goals.
Prepare risk-based corrective action plans.
Coordinate with state and local agencies.
Ensure compliance with stormwater and pollution prevention regulations.

Contact Us for Contaminated Soil Testing & Cleanup

At EnviroBEE, our goal is to restore your property to a safe, usable condition while helping you meet your environmental obligations. Our team was founded on dedication and hard work, and we continue to expand our reach and professional expertise to better serve you. Contact us today to schedule a soil assessment in Fayetteville or Raleigh, NC.