In response to a number of issues, including concerns that Michigan's environmental cleanup and liability standards were discouraging urban redevelopment and site reclamation, Part 201 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act (NREPA) was signed into law.

The principal goals of the amendments are to target redevelopment of contaminated urban sites (brownfields) throughout the State, and to modify cleanup standards. It is AKT Peerless' experience that these changes have significantly reduced the cost associated with property transfer and site remediation. 

Prospective users can purchase or operate on contaminated property and avoid liability for pre-existing contamination if a Baseline Environmental Assessment (BEA) is conducted. Additionally, the BEA can be submitted to the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) for review and approval, providing the prospective purchaser with the tools necessary for liability protection, financing, and future sale. 

AKT Peerless is experienced with the BEA process and has worked successfully with its clients to achieve the following:

·         Purchase contaminated or distressed properties

·         Complete a BEA and obtain liability exemption

·         Facilitate property financing and lender environmental review and approval

·         Implement due care obligations

The changes in the law have provided innovative and useful tools to facilitate the sale, redevelopment, and reuse of environmentally distressed properties. AKT Peerless has streamlined the BEA process, resulting in quick turnaround and competitive pricing.