What are PFAS? And Why Should You Be Concerned About Them?

PFAS Chemicals

As the owner or operator of a business or commercial facility, you have a responsibility to provide a safe environment for employees and visitors. This means complying with regulations designed to protect people and animals from the damaging effects of PFAS and other potentially toxic chemicals. Below is a look at the adverse impact that …

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How Do New Regulations About PFAS Affect Your ESA?

new PFAS regulations

Your phase 1 environmental site assessment (ESA) is an important part of your project, and conducting a proper one involves covering a lot of issues. Recently, there has been a lot of litigation regarding per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), and new regulations covering the levels of PFAS in drinking water were introduced (for two specific …

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What is a Geotech Survey? And What Does It Test For?

Geotechnical Survey Conduction

Real estate development requires a lot of surveying to be done before construction begins. One of the things that you might hear about is a geotechnical or geotech survey. Understanding what this is and when and why you might need to get one done is important for the long-term stability of your building. What is …

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What is an ALTA Survey?

Construction Vehicles at Site

If you are buying property for land development, then you will probably be told at some point that you need an ALTA survey. Specifically, you will need one to get the loan to purchase or develop your property. So, what is this property survey, why do you need one, and what are the typical requirements? …

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Things you Should Know About Getting Reimbursed for Hazard Tree Removal After a Natural Disaster

A tree with some wires blocking a residential driveway.

Natural disasters often result in the loss of and damage to numerous trees. In some cases, trees may become a hazard by falling onto threatening structures, damming waterways, and blocking streets. Hazardous tree removal can be expensive and getting reimbursement can be challenging. Here are some things you need to know. When Will FEMA Help? …

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How Do Cities Get Reimbursed by FEMA?

3D render of the FEMA acronym.

When there is a disaster, cities often request federal aid from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). This aid generally comes in the form of money, but FEMA also provides training, guidance, and other resources for local governments, non-profits, and even companies and individuals. Local jurisdictions can then use these funds to assist companies and …

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What is a Tree Risk Assessment? And What is an “At Risk Tree”?

Waving Palm Trees

A downed tree can cause all kinds of problems. Trees fall on and damage structures, take out power lines, and block roadways. Because of this, it’s important to assess whether a tree has become hazardous, particularly after a weather event, but also in general. This process is called a tree risk assessment. What is a …

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What Is An Arborist? And When Do You Need One?

Arborist Cutting Tree Branches

Properly maintaining and caring for the trees on your property is a challenge. Sometimes you might need a bit of help with it. Sometimes you need professional help, and that is where arborists come in. What is an Arborist? An arborist is sometimes called a tree surgeon or arboriculturalist. Arborists are more than “tree trimmers” …

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Ghost Kitchens – the Future of Restaurants?

Waitress Holding Takeout Only Sign

Few industries have suffered as much from the pandemic as restaurants. With many people avoiding dining out, even when restaurants are allowed to keep dining rooms open, restaurants are closing left, right and center, with independent operators hit hardest. About 7.5% of mom-and-pop restaurants closed in 2020 and the number is likely to rise. Sports …

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