Residential
Residential Environmental Consulting & Assessment Solutions
Elevate Your
Residential
Property’s Value
and Safety
Our residential environmental services are meticulously designed to safeguard your well-being and real estate investments.
With over 28 years of experience in the environmental consulting fields we are your trusted source for comprehensive assessments and solutions that address the potential presence of contamination that can be harmful to you and your family, as well as costly to rectify if left untouched for a long period of time.
Specialized Residential Environmental Services for Your Unique Needs
We offer a comprehensive range of specialized services catering to the distinctive requirements of homeowners, potential buyers, and residential real estate agents in Quebec. Our services are thoughtfully tailored to enhance your property’s safety and value.
Residential Environmental Evaluations
Our team of expert environmental consultants conducts thorough assessments aimed at enhancing the environmental aspects of your property. Our focus is squarely on safety, quality, and sustainability, ensuring that your residential space remains free from potential hazards.
As a homeowner, potential home buyer, or a residential real estate agent in Quebec, understanding the significance of environmental evaluations is crucial. Environmental assessments and evaluations provide a plethora of benefits:
- Secure Your Investment. Our environmental site assessments provide vital information to make informed decisions about your property.
- Streamline Transactions. Our residential environmental evaluations are accepted by all lenders, making real estate transactions smoother and more efficient.
- Boost Property Value. Environmental evaluations help identify and address environmental issues, ensuring your property is in its best possible condition.
- Ensure Your Family’s Health. A safe and healthy living environment is not just a selling point; it’s a necessity.
In our commitment to ensuring a safe and secure environment for your residential property, our environmental assessments and evaluations are structured into distinct phases, each serving a unique purpose in assessing and addressing potential environmental risks or concerns.
Additional sampling to understand contamination extent and develop remediation strategies.
Phase I - Historical Study, Inspection and Document Research
Phase I plays a pivotal role, especially when it comes to residential properties. It is a necessary step, particularly for multi-residential properties with seven units or more. In this phase, we conduct a historical study, a site inspection as well as documentary research to identify areas of potential environmental concern on your property. A site inspection and comprehensive document research are also carried out during Phase I. No soil or groundwater sampling is done during Phase I.
The review of records pertaining to the property will provide a basis for establishing the site history, while the site visit will help to identify the presence of activities or facilities on the site and in the surrounding area that may potentially affect soil and groundwater environmental quality.
Our thorough research extends over a century and involves the utilization of numerous information sources, including Opta Information Intelligence, Québec land register,Énergir and others.
Phase I serves the critical purpose of determining, through a review of records and a site visit, whether a residential property may have been contaminated in the past or is likely to become contaminated. This initial environmental assessment is vital for uncovering the property’s environmental history and identifying areas of potential environmental concern.
Phase I includes:
● A thorough examination of the property and its structures through a property visit.
● Historical records review: aerial imagery, fire insurance plans, OPTA Information Intelligence Records, title search and data evaluation.
● In-depth interviews with individuals well-versed in the property’s historical background and activities.
● Examination of pertinent property documents from governmental authorities.
If Phase I raises concerns regarding contamination, we recommend proceeding to Phase II, keeping your residential space safe and sustainable.
Our Phase I environmental reports are accepted by all financial institutions and are prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Ministère de l’Environnement, de la Lutte contre les changements climatiques, de la Faune et des Parcs (MELCCFP) and the Canadian Standards Association (CSA). They also follow the Canadian standard CSA Z768-F01 (C2023) – Environmental Site Assessment, Phase I (2001), and adheres to principles outlined in the “Guide de caractérisation des terrains” (2024) provided by the Quebec Ministry of Environment.
Phase II - Soil Characterization
Phase II, known as Soil Characterization, involves collecting soil and/or groundwater samples. These samples undergo laboratory analysis to assess contamination levels based on your property’s intended residential use. This phase aims to confirm the presence or absence of contaminants related to the risks identified during Phase I. The entire process adheres to the requirements set by the Ministère de l’Environnement, de la Lutte contre les changements climatiques, de la Faune et des Parcs (MELCCFP)
The specifics of Phase II, including the number of samples, their locations, parameters for analysis, and drilling depth, are determined based on the risks identified in Phase I, all with a residential focus in mind.
Phase II includes:
● Drilling of boreholes, digging trenches, and/or installation of groundwater monitoring wells as needed.
● Collection of soil and groundwater samples.
● Laboratory analysis of collected samples.
● Assessment of various physico-chemical parameters related to potential contamination sources.
● Evaluation of contamination levels and their impact on the property’s environmental quality.
The findings from Phase II play a critical role in the environmental site assessment process. They confirm the existence of contaminants in specified zones, pinpoint affected environments, including soil, groundwater, and surface water, assess the extent of contamination, and provide a decisive evaluation of whether the property aligns with or surpasses the criteria set by the Ministry of Environment in regard to property usage and zoning. These results not only inform property stakeholders but also facilitate informed decision-making on necessary measures for ensuring the safety, compliance, and environmental integrity of the site.
If Phase II identifies significant contamination, additional testing may be necessary to accurately determine the extent of contamination. This information is critical for developing an informed plan for soil remediation (rehabilitation).
In cases where contamination is confirmed, you, as the client, have the discretion to proceed or not. The report is strictly confidential. However, it is worth noting that, in residential real estate transactions, it is typically the lender or potential buyer who may request property decontamination, making your property more attractive and market-ready.
Our Phase II environmental characterization methodology is based on the Canadian Standard CSA Z769-F00 (C20013) – Environmental Site Assessment, Phase II (2000) and the standard methodologies outlined in documents provided by the Ministry of Environment.
Phase III - Complementary Soil Characterization or Supplementary Phase II
Phase III, known as Complementary Soil Characterization Supplementary Phase II, is the next step if contamination requiring decontamination is identified in Phase II. It involves additional soil and groundwater sampling, analysis, and assessment.
The primary objective of Phase III is to conduct a thorough examination of the extent of contamination and the quantity of affected materials, offering a comprehensive understanding of the environmental impact. This phase is instrumental in determining the direction and velocity of contaminant migration, helping to model contamination plumes and their potential spread. Furthermore, Phase III enhances the assessment of the ramifications of contamination on the receiving environments, enabling a more precise evaluation of the environmental consequences and guiding the development of effective remediation and containment strategies.
Phase III includes:
● Execution of additional surveys and observation wells for precise delineation of contaminated areas.
● In-depth evaluation of rehabilitation or containment alternatives.
● Thorough modeling of contamination plumes and their impact on surrounding environments.
Phase III offers a more in-depth assessment of the impacts on receiving environments, providing valuable insights that guide effective decision-making and strategies for residential property rehabilitation and containment, ultimately ensuring the safety and environmental integrity of the site.
Environmental Assessment FAQ
Rehabilitation in environmental services refers to the process of cleaning, mitigating, or containing contamination on a property to make it safe for its intended use. This can include soil remediation, groundwater treatment, or other measures to restore the environmental quality of the site.
Yes, our environmental experts are highly trained and certified in their respective fields. They possess the necessary qualifications and licenses to conduct environmental assessments and characterizations following industry standards and regulations.
The timeline for an environmental characterization can vary, influenced by the specific project phase, complexity, and scale. Generally:
Phase I typically requires 3 to 5 weeks for completion, with exceptions considered.
Phase II and III usually take 2 to 3 weeks after fieldwork.
Our extensive experience and industry expertise, spanning over 28 years, have earned recognition from major stakeholders. However, due to the strict confidentiality of our reports, we are unable to disclose references or specific examples of past residential projects.
The cost of Phase II testing is customized, varying from case to case based on factors like the scope of the project. For example, in cases involving potential aboveground storage tank (AST) contamination due to heating oil in the Montréal area and its suburbs, the cost may be approximately $3,000. Costs are tailored to individual project requirements.
Environmental Site Rehabilitation or Remediation (Soil, Groundwater, and/or Sediment)
At Gestenv NG2, site environmental rehabilitation or remediation is a crucial phase undertaken following a Phase II or Phase III Environmental Site Assessment when the presence of contamination is confirmed on a property.
Our expertise extends to the meticulous restoration and rehabilitation of sites to their maximum potential. We prioritize safety and environmental responsibility.
Soil rehabilitation, also known as soil remediation, aims to return the soil to a condition that meets the acceptable criteria for its intended purpose.
This is achieved through various techniques, including:
● Excavation and proper disposal of contaminated soil at authorized sites
(ex-situ remediation)
● On-site treatment of contaminated soil (in-situ remediation)
Our evaluation of decontamination work considers several factors, including:
● The elements affected by the contaminant (soil, groundwater, surface water)
● The type of contaminant
● Existing infrastructure and the accessibility of the area to be rehabilitated
● The dimensions of the site
● The volume of contaminated soil
● These measures are taken to ensure a safe and environmentally compliant
property ready for use according to your specific needs
Our environmental site rehabilitation service includes:
● In-depth evaluation of rehabilitation or containment alternatives
● Development of comprehensive rehabilitation plans
● Precise estimation of environmental rehabilitation costs
● Implementation of decontamination measures on the site
● A traceability system for excavated contaminated soils with a certifier in the company (Traces Québec)
Since January 1, 2023, all contaminated soils transported outside the original site must be mandatory tracked through the government traceability system, Traces Québec. This requirement arises from the Regulation Concerning the Traceability of Excavated Contaminated Soils (RCTSCE). At NG2, we can provide you with this service and guide you through every step of this process.
Environmental Site Rehabilitation FAQ
The duration of an environmental site rehabilitation project can fluctuate based on the scope and complexity of the contamination, site-specific factors, and the chosen remediation methods.
Environmental site rehabilitation encompasses a range of activities, including the assessment of rehabilitation or containment alternatives, the development of customized rehabilitation plans, precise cost estimation, and the execution of decontamination measures to restore the site to an
environmentally safe and compliant condition.
Yes, there are regulatory requirements governing environmental site rehabilitation to ensure that it complies with environmental standards and regulations. These requirements may vary depending on the location and nature of the contamination. Our experts are well-versed in adhering to these regulations to achieve the necessary approvals and certifications.
Due to the confidential nature of environmental site rehabilitation projects and the need to protect the privacy of our clients, we are unable to provide specific references or examples. However, our extensive experience and expertise have earned recognition within the industry, and we are committed to delivering exceptional results on each project.
Geotechnical Residential Studies
A geotechnical study is a comprehensive investigation that aims to investigate subsurface conditions and materials, determine the physical and chemical properties of the earth materials, evaluate slopes and soil deposits’ stability, assess the risks posed by site conditions, design foundations, and monitor site conditions and foundation construction. Our geotechnical studies adhere to rigorous standards, including compliance with the National Building Code, the Canadian Foundation Engineering Manual, and the Unified Soil Classification System (USCS). Our specialists conduct these studies, ensuring that they meet these stringent requirements.
Geotechnical studies are essential for a wide range of projects, including residential construction. They serve as a crucial tool for architects, engineers, builders, and property owners. These studies help assess soil and rock properties to ensure that they can adequately support the planned structures.
Whether you are constructing a new home, planning an expansion, or assessing an existing building, a geotechnical study provides essential insights into the suitability of the site, identifies areas at risk of landslides, and ensures the safety and stability of your project.
Our geotechnical studies involve a systematic process carried out by our specialists. An engineer supervises or prepares the studies, ensuring that they adhere to national and industry standards. The process typically includes soil and rock sampling, in-situ tests, and laboratory analysis. These investigations provide valuable data about the site’s geotechnical characteristics, groundwater conditions, and the bearing capacity of the soil. By understanding these factors, we can make informed recommendations for your project’s design and construction.
We offer two types of geotechnical studies:
Soil Bearing Capacity
This study evaluates the composition and characteristics of the soil beneath a proposed or existing structure. By determining the soil’s bearing capacity, we assess its ability to support the weight and loads of a building, ensuring that it remains stable and safe.
Slope Stability
Our slope stability study assesses the characteristics of a slope to plan the positioning of a building or expansion. It identifies areas susceptible to landslides and may also consider the bearing capacity of the soil, safeguarding your project from geological risks.
At Gestenv NG2 Our geotechnical studies adhere to rigorous standards, including compliance with the National Building Code, the Canadian Foundation Engineering Manual, and the Unified Soil Classification System (USCS).
Our services are designed to meet the highest industry standards, and both Gestenv NG2 and our specialists are protected by errors and omissions liability insurance, ensuring reliability and peace of mind for our clients
Geotechnical Residential Studies FAQ
Geotechnical services involve the study and analysis of soil, rock, and groundwater conditions at a construction site to determine their properties. This information is crucial for designing and constructing various engineering projects.
Geotechnical services are essential for property developers, builders, architects, and engineers involved in construction projects. They provide valuable insights into the site’s geological characteristics, ensuring safe and stable structures.
Geotechnical studies are necessary to understand the soil and rock properties, local groundwater conditions, and geotechnical parameters of a site. This information helps in making informed decisions about the design and construction of proposed structures.
We offer various geotechnical studies, including soil bearing capacity and slope stability assessments. Soil bearing capacity studies determine whether the site’s soil can support a proposed building, while slope stability studies assess the characteristics of slopes to determine safe building locations.
Geotechnical studies involve soil and rock sampling, laboratory testing, and in-situ tests. Our experts, supervised by an engineer, adhere to the National Building Code, the Canadian Foundation Engineering Manual standards, and the Unified Soil Classification System (USCS).
Yes, both Gestenv NG2 and our specialists are covered by errors and omissions liability insurance, ensuring peace of mind for our clients throughout the geotechnical assessment process.
Expertise Tailored to You
At Gestenv NG2, our team of experts is wholeheartedly committed to understanding your unique needs. Our residential environmental consulting expertise is deeply rooted in experience and collaboration, ensuring that we are your most reliable partner for all your residential environmental needs.
We are well-versed in the real estate industry, and our services are recognized and accepted by all lenders and financial institutions for smooth transactions. You can trust us for expert environmental consulting and innovative environmental consulting & technology.