Services
Lawrence ENV, LLC offers a wide range of environmental testing, monitoring and consulting services to commercial, residential and industrial clients.
Water Testing and Analysis
Is your water safe to drink? Whether your water comes from a well or a public water system, it can potentially be contaminated by many toxins and bacteria including metals, pesticides and other contaminants. It is advisable to test the water if you are purchasing a property, live in a home that has older pipes, or reside in an area that has known issues or has had a flood. The CDC (Center for Disease Control) recommends that your water is tested annually for coliform bacteria, VOCs, nitrates, pH levels and other toxins.
Lawrence ENV’s team of professionals is experienced in all aspects of water safety and provides services such as:
- Conduct water sampling for residential, commercial and industrial properties
- Test for metals such as lead, copper, magnesium, nickel, etc.
- Test for bacteria such as Legionella, coliform, E. coli, etc.
- Analyze samples through a certified third-party laboratory
- Provide a written report detailing the findings including a recommended course of action
To learn about Lawrence ENV’s water testing capabilities, to schedule a water test, or just to ask a question, call 212-682-2001.
Indoor Air Quality
According to the US Environmental Protection Agency, indoor air pollution can be 25-100 times higher than outdoor air pollution. This can cause occupants of both offices and residences to suffer from a multitude of health issues, often described as “sick building syndrome.”
Lawrence ENV’s team of trained professionals can identify the root causes of indoor air pollution. Investigators will test for volatile organic compounds (VOCs), radon, mold, carbon monoxide, airborne particulates and other toxins. Lawrence will provide a comprehensive report detailing the findings, along with recommendations for corrective action.
To schedule an indoor air quality inspection or just ask a question, call 212-682-2001.
Mold and Moisture Surveys and Inspections
Mold is everywhere. It is produced by nature and is present in virtually all indoors and outdoor environments. Problems arise when mold begins to grow in a home or workplace, as it releases spores and chemicals into the air, which can cause health complications, particularly in people with respiratory issues and compromised immune systems.
Moisture in a building is typically a key factor contributing to mold growth and the deterioration of air quality. In addition to health concerns, the spread of mold can negatively impact property values, and can potentially lead to litigation with insurance companies, condo and co-op boards, landlords, owners, building managers and employers.
If you suspect there is a mold issue at your property, one of Lawrence ENV’s NYS Department of Labor certified mold inspectors can visit your property to:
- Inspect and survey the property
- Sample affected areas
- Test samples through a certified third-party laboratory
- Provide a written report detailing the results and recommending a course of action
- Provide a post-remediation verification inspection and report
- If necessary, provide expert witness testimony in property disputes and matters of litigation
Since Lawrence ENV does not provide mold remediation services, the testing, reports and recommendations are unbiased and free from any conflict of interest.
To schedule a mold inspection or just ask a question, call 212-682-2001.
Asbestos Investigations
Asbestos causes cancer and a multitude of other health issues. Asbestos is present in a variety of building materials in nearly every home and building constructed prior to 1980, and as a carcinogen, it must be monitored and managed so that it does not adversely affect the health of residents, employees and contractors. A knowledgeable and experienced consultant, such as Lawrence ENV, is necessary to guide clients and oversee the process of asbestos surveying, monitoring and removal in order to comply with the strict and onerous laws and regulations set forth by the EPA, as well as state and city regulatory bodies.
Before any renovation or demolition work commences at a property built before 1980, it is essential to have the areas examined by a trained professional to prevent the release of hazardous fibers into the air. Lawrence ENV works with engineers, architects and contractors to ensure that renovations to a home or office are carried out legally and safely. The staff at Lawrence ENV has extensive experience managing all aspects of asbestos materials in homes, offices, schools and hospitals and maintains the legally required EPA, New York State and New York City asbestos certifications.
Lawrence ENV offers a range of services specific to asbestos management such as:
- Conduct a comprehensive site survey to identify any asbestos-containing materials
- Comply with and file ACP-5 and ACP-7 requirements
- Monitor the abatement work through daily air sampling and testing
- Provide bulk, air and soil sampling
- Test samples through a certified third-party laboratory
- Provide a written report detailing the location, quantity and condition of any asbestos-containing materials
- Develop an asbestos abatement plan and protocol for use by a third-party abatement contractor
- Provide a list of qualified, licensed asbestos abatement contractors
- Coordinate the bid process
- Conduct an asbestos clearance test at project completion
- Develop an Operations & Maintenance Plan (O&M)
Since Lawrence ENV does not provide asbestos removal or remediation services, the monitoring, reports and recommendations are unbiased and free from any conflict of interest.
To schedule an asbestos inspection or just ask a question, call 212-682-2001.
Lead-Based Paint
Lead is toxic. It can cause irreparable damage to children and adults who are exposed to it. If your home, office, or school was built prior to 1978, it is likely that lead-based paint is present. Lead laws are extremely strict and require property owners to know the condition of lead-based paint in their buildings, to monitor it regularly, and to use only EPA-licensed professionals if it is present. Removing or disturbing lead-based paint surfaces improperly can increase the potential for health hazards when lead dust is released into the air.
If you are buying, renovating or demolishing a property built before 1978, it is crucial to minimize your health risks and liability exposure. Lawrence ENV will:
- Conduct a lead-based paint inspection and risk assessment to identify the existence and condition of lead-based paint
- Conduct surface wipe sampling
- Conduct XRF (X-Ray Fluorescence) inspections and exemptions
- Test samples through a certified third-party laboratory
- Provide a written report detailing the location, quantity and condition of any lead-containing surfaces
- Develop a lead-based paint abatement plan and protocol for use by a third-party abatement contractor
- Provide a list of qualified, licensed lead abatement contractors
- Coordinate the bid process
- Conduct a lead clearance test at project completion
- Develop an Operations & Maintenance Plan (O&M)
Since Lawrence ENV does not provide lead removal services, the testing, reports and recommendations are unbiased and free from any conflict of interest.
To schedule a lead-based paint inspection or just ask a question, call 212-682-2001.
Phase I and II Site Assessments
Lawrence ENV provides Phase I and Phase II Environmental Site Assessments to provide necessary liability protection for potential property owners and lending institutions to meet due diligence requirements. The Lawrence team has extensive experience performing Phase I and II Assessments throughout the United States and advises clients so that they can make informed business and financial decisions about the property.
Phase I Assessments typically focus on Recognized Environmental Conditions (RECs) following the current ASTM E1527-13 standards arising from historical use of a property and surrounding properties. As part of the process, Lawrence ENV will:
- Conduct an extensive review of historical and environmental records of the subject property
- Conduct a site visit at the property
- Conduct interviews
- Provide a comprehensive report detailing the findings, including an opinion regarding the potential impact of any RECs, as well as recommendations for future actions
Phase II Assessments provide further investigation of the RECs uncovered during the Phase I process for the purpose of evaluating the nature and extent of soil and groundwater contamination as part of a site characterization study. As part of the process, Lawrence ENV will:
- Conduct project-specific sampling and chemical testing
- Analyze samples through a certified third-party laboratory
- Provide a comprehensive written report detailing sampling rationale, protocols and procedures, an analysis of the results, and recommendations regarding possible additional investigations needed or remedial action
- Design and evaluate remedial action alternatives, and prepare risk assessments
- Conduct a feasibility study to advise clients on cost-effective and practical approaches to make informed decisions regarding site cleanup, if desired
To schedule a Phase I or II Site Assessment or just ask a question, call 212-682-2001.
Additional Services
NYS/NYC Violation Support and Mitigation Services
The team at Lawrence ENV has years of experience navigating the myriad agencies that govern every aspect of environmental issues and property management in New York City and other municipalities. Lawrence ENV can work directly with expeditors and architects on a variety of project filings and has a proven track record of resolving violations issued to property owners, in addition to troubleshooting compliance issues with state and federal authorities.
Lawrence ENV provides violation and mitigation support in the areas of:
- Mold
- Asbestos
- Lead
- Water (above and below ground)
- Soils
- Oil tanks
- DEP
- DEC
- NYS Health Department
Insurance Property Damage Claim Support
Lawrence ENV has been providing solutions for the insurance industry through our claim support services. Years of experience determining the needs of our client’s fires, water and spill emergencies from the moment something happens through final clearance. Communication with all parties involved from adjusters, owners, managers, tenants and insurance companies with time of the essence response time we are available 24/7.
Legionella and Waterborne Pathogens
Legionnaires’ disease is caused by a type of bacteria called Legionella. The Legionella bacteria are found naturally in the environment, usually in water. The bacteria grow best in warm water, like the kind found in hot tubs, cooling towers, hot water tanks, large plumbing systems, and decorative fountains that are not properly maintained. They do not seem to grow in car or window air-conditioners.
People get Legionnaires’ disease when they breathe in a mist or vapor (small droplets of water in the air) containing the bacteria. The bacteria are not spread from one person to another. A person diagnosed with Legionnaires’ disease is not a threat to others who share office space or other areas with him or her.
The key to preventing legionellosis is maintenance of the water systems in which Legionella grow (e.g., in cooling towers, hot water tanks, building water distribution systems, and decorative fountains). Guidelines for appropriate water temperatures and chemical treatment of water for legionellosis prevention should be rigorously followed.
Lawrence ENV has guided clients through the ever-changing regulations and responsibilities regarding Legionella issues. For years we have provided our testing and consulting services, working with our clients, the Department of Health and the CDC. Lawrence Env works with NYSDOH accredited and CDC Elite certified labs testing for Legionella pneumophila Method 341.
Lawrence ENV provides Legionella compliance services including:
- Conduct site visits and evaluations of a building’s current systems.
- Sample water systems based upon the building systems and configuration.
- Provide reports interpreting results of the sample analysis and propose recommendations to building owners and managers.
- Work with the Department of Health (DOH) and other regulatory bodies to design and implement remediation plans required to bring a property to compliance.
- Our labs are NYSDOH accredited and CDC Elite certified.
Due to Covid-19 related issues, the temporary shutdown or reduced operation of a building and reductions in normal water use can create hazards for returning occupants. Under such prolonged conditions, Legionella can grow over a few weeks or months, depending on plumbing-specific factors, disinfectant residuals, water heater temperature set points, water usage patterns and pre-existing Legionella colonization.
Diligence, along with a preemptive plan, is the key to reduce risk and liability for tenants, staff and owners. Call us to schedule a free consultation.
Vapor Intrusion Assessments
Vapor intrusion occurs when volatile chemicals migrate from contamination in the soil or groundwater up into a building’s interior space and can be caused by contamination on-site or off-site. Vapor intrusion can compromise indoor air quality and pose severe health risks to the occupants of a building while exposing building owners to major liability.
As part of the assessment process, Lawrence ENV will:
- Conduct a site visit, including project-specific sampling and chemical testing
- Analyze samples through a certified third-party laboratory
- Provide a comprehensive written report detailing the results and offering recommendations regarding possible additional investigations needed or remedial action
- Design and evaluate remedial action alternatives, and prepare risk assessments
Brownfield Design and Remediation
A brownfield is defined by the EPA as property that if expanded, redeveloped or re-used may be complicated by the potential presence of a hazardous substance, pollutant or contaminant. With more than 450,000 brownfield properties in the United States, many opportunities exist to repurpose and redevelop dormant properties.
Lawrence ENV can investigate any brownfield situation and provide recommendations to prospective owners regarding redevelopment of the properties in order to maximize value while minimizing liability. From initial consultation and exploration to recommendations, cost analysis and project oversight, the Lawrence ENV team is experienced in all aspects of brownfield redevelopment and can manage the project from start to finish.
Services include:
- Conduct an environmental investigation of the current property
- Review history and prior use of property
- Test property for existing hazardous conditions
- Assess the feasibility of desired future use
- Identify cost-effective redevelopment options and recommend a course of action to prospective owners and investors
- Design abatement plan
- Oversee cleanup and remediation
- Prepare and submit all filings to government agencies and municipalities to comply with laws and regulations
- Consult and advise invested parties throughout the process
Soil and Groundwater Investigations
To reduce liability exposure, it is essential to monitor a property’s groundwater to know if contamination exists from on-site and/or off-site sources. This can be performed as part of a Phase II site assessment, or as a separate investigation if potentially hazardous conditions arise on or near the property.
As part of the investigative process, Lawrence ENV will:
- Conduct a site visit, including project-specific sampling and chemical testing
- Analyze samples through a certified third-party laboratory
- Provide a comprehensive written report detailing the results and offering recommendations regarding possible additional investigations needed or remedial action
- Design and evaluate remedial action alternatives, and prepare risk assessments
- Conduct a feasibility study to advise clients on cost-effective and practical approaches to make informed decisions regarding site cleanup, if desired
Property Condition Assessments (PCAs)
Lawrence ENV provides Property Condition Assessments (PCAs) for owners, investors and lenders to understand the condition of their properties and systems so that asset values can be maximized, risks can be minimized and properties can be run most efficiently. Through its relationships with in-house engineers and expert specialists in every building system, Lawrence ENV is able to provide a comprehensive examination of the entire asset, relating to both interior and exterior issues and factors. By identifying major building deficiencies and potential risks, Lawrence ENV’s PCA can help clients save money and reduce liability exposure.
Lawrence ENV will provide the following PCA services:
- Conduct a thorough property inspection to include foundation, structure and building envelope areas, plumbing, electrical, HVAC systems, exterior site improvements
- Test and evaluate major building systems
- Provide a comprehensive report detailing the condition of every aspect of the property
- Identify current issues and deficiencies as well as indicate areas of future concern
- Provide recommendations and cost estimates for both short-term and long-term needs
- Assist with investment and planning decisions
Customized Educational Webinars
Lawrence ENV can provide educational webinars customized for your businesses’ goals; topics and content for these webinars can be varied.
Suggested content can include:
- Mold and Water Intrusion
- Insurance
- COVID-19
- Legionella
- Indoor Air Quality
- Healthcare