How to Conduct an Environmental Inspection on a Shopping Center and Its Surroundings

An environmental inspection is the process of examining the physical environment, or the surrounding natural features, of a property to ensure that it meets specific standards. An environmental inspector will conduct an inspection on a shopping center and its surroundings with the goal of identifying any issues that could have negative consequences on the area’s current and future state. The results of such an inspection provide documentation and recommendations for potential changes, as well as information regarding potential zoning restrictions or any other limitations on construction. An environmental inspection typically begins by identifying any potential concerns based on historical data regarding flooding, earthquake activity, fire danger, or other potentially hazardous conditions. Depending on different variables, an environmental inspector may inspect the site in person or review relevant maps and records. Some considerations include soil quality, vegetation growth, water flow patterns, floodplains and drainage problems. The following is an overview of what to expect from this type of inspection process based on common findings related to shopping centers and their surroundings.

Shifting Soil Quality

One of the first things an environmental inspector will examine is the quality of the soil, which can provide a foundation for many other concerns. Soil that shifts, or is comprised of loose particles, may not be suitable for certain construction projects due to the risk of collapse or shifting. Certain types of soil are more susceptible to shifting than others due to their makeup, so inspectors will evaluate this factor to determine if it poses a danger. For example, if soil samples indicate that high water absorption or high salt content could lead to shifting during periods of heavy rainfall, this could indicate a potential problem. Environmental inspectors may also look at the soil’s ability to support plant life. If the soil is lacking nutrients, soil enrichment may be required to stabilize it and prevent erosion. Certain chemicals may be added to improve soil conditions and help it retain moisture. In other cases, soil may be too dense, or not porous enough to support plant growth. In these situations, the soil may be “washed,” or mixed with sand to help it retain water to promote plant growth.

Flooding Or Water Drainage Issues

An environmental inspection will examine potential flooding issues and existing drainage patterns to prevent future flooding. Some areas may be at greater risk of flooding due to the overall elevation, underground water flow patterns, or surrounding topography. In some cases, construction may be allowed, as long as it meets specific requirements to ensure that it does not worsen existing drainage issues. Environmental inspectors may also examine existing drainage systems to ensure they are functioning properly. Drainage issues may have contributed to past flooding events, and their evaluation is critical to the construction and development process. Inspectors may recommend changes to existing drainage patterns or propose new systems to prevent future flooding, especially in areas that are prone to heavy rainfall.

Instability Caused By Erosion Or Wind

Examining the potential for erosion and other types of instability can help reduce the risk of damage to a property or surrounding areas. Environmental inspectors will assess the risk of erosion, as well as the current stability of a property or area. Areas at risk of erosion are often those that are adjacent to bodies of water, such as rivers or oceans. In such cases, inspectors will examine the surrounding land for any signs of instability, such as loose soil or an uneven landscape. Inspectors may also examine the overall topography of a property to ensure it is level and stable. As part of this process, they may also determine if changes to the site’s grade would be beneficial. For example, a site that is below the water table may be unstable due to a high water table. Constructing a higher grade would reduce the risk of damage due to water seepage.

Fire Conditions In The Area

An environmental inspection may also identify potential fire hazards in the surrounding areas. Inspectors may examine the type of vegetation that is common in the area, as well as any structures and development that may contribute to fire hazards. They may also consider the site’s location, as certain areas may be prone to wildfires due to their proximity to forests or other high-risk areas. Fire hazards can be mitigated in various ways, such as modifying the types of trees that are allowed to grow in an area, or adding certain fire-resistant materials to buildings that may be at risk of combustion.

Conclusion

An environmental inspection is an essential step in the construction process to identify potential risks and issues that could impact the health and safety of people or the surrounding area. If a project is constructed in an area that is prone to high water levels, for example, it may be at risk of being flooded. This type of inspection is critical to construct safe and sustainable buildings, as well as ensure that they are built in the right location.