7 Most Common Environmental Concerns That Affect Project Completion

Environmental concerns can make or break a project in commercial real estate development. These major roadblocks may cause delays and budget overruns. That’s why, an experienced real estate development consultant in Atlanta, such as Terra Alma, keeps environmental factors a top priority. If ignored, they can stop construction, lead to costly fixes, or even derail a project completely.

Let's discuss the 7 most common environmental concerns that often affect project completion and what steps can be taken to deal with them.

1. Soil Contamination – The Invisible Threat

Soil contamination is a hidden hazard that can delay any real estate development project. Cleanup becomes essential but costly when lead, petroleum, heavy metals, or other contaminants are found.

According to NCBI, nearly 24% of development sites (508 out of the 2,097 lots) show lead levels above 400 ppm (parts per million), making this issue critical for a project consulting firm in Atlanta. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has strict rules on this, meaning you could face significant fines if the issue is not addressed promptly.

"If a site has contaminated soil, expect delays," warns Terra Alma’s industry expert, Edie Weintraub. "Remediation can take months, and the cost can quickly exceed the original budget."

Mitigation Tip:

Conduct a soil analysis before starting the project. This will allow you to account for potential contamination cleanup in your initial budget and timeline.

2. Wetlands – More Than Just a Puddle

Wetlands are essential ecosystems, but they can be problematic for developers. Wetlands can stop construction entirely because they are protected by federal law. According to the National Wetlands Inventory, America has lost about 50% of its wetlands since 1780, so protecting what remains is a top priority.

As a CRE Advisory in Atlanta, Terra Alma knows building on or near wetlands is no small feat. If wetlands are on your property, you’ll need special permits from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which can take years to secure.

"Wetlands permitting can be a developer’s worst nightmare," says Anna Hunt, a leading commercial real estate consultant at Terra Alma. "It’s not about delays but the risk of fines for non-compliance."

Mitigation Tip:

Hire an environmental consultant early to assess if any part of your development site overlaps with wetlands. That way, you can adjust the project plan accordingly.

3. Air Quality Issues – Clean Air, Clear Path

Air quality regulations are strict in large cities like Atlanta. Development projects in metro areas must comply with local and federal air quality standards. Dust, emissions from equipment, and debris can all contribute to air pollution, and stop construction activities.

Non-compliance with air quality standards can lead to hefty fines and delays.

"Don’t overlook air quality—Atlanta’s regulations are strict," advises Terra Alma’s CRE expert Bruce Harris. "Non-compliance is more costly than people realize."

Mitigation Tip:

Implement dust control measures and monitor emissions from construction equipment to ensure compliance with the Clean Air Act.

4. Water Management – Too Much or Too Little?

Water management is one of the trickiest aspects of real estate development. Flooding, drainage, and stormwater runoff are major concerns, especially for commercial projects. Improper water management can cause structural issues, cost thousands in repairs, and cause project delays.

"Water management can make or break a project, especially if you're working in flood-prone areas," says Terra Alma’s leading CRE development consultant Edie Weintraub.

Mitigation Tip:

Use advanced drainage and stormwater management systems in the planning stages to avoid future complications.

5. Wildlife Disruption – The Ripple Effect

When development encroaches on habitats, wildlife disruption becomes a concern. This can delay your project if protected species are involved. The Endangered Species Act can affect construction until proper relocation or solution efforts are made.

As of July 2016, Georgia was home to 47 endangered species. So, you must ensure your project doesn’t negatively impact them as a developer. For Terra Alma, this is a crucial step in the planning process.

Mitigation Tip:

Work with local wildlife agencies to assess the impact of your project on local species before breaking ground.

6. Noise Pollution – Keeping the Peace

Noise pollution may not seem like an environmental issue, but it has significant implications for real estate projects in residential or commercial zones. Construction noise can lead to complaints from neighboring communities. In some cases, noise violations can result in fines or construction halts.

Atlanta has strict local ordinances around noise levels, especially near residential areas. As a CRE Advisory in Atlanta, Terra Alma emphasizes the importance of maintaining good relations with the community.

"Ignoring noise ordinances will cost you," says Michaela Boone, an expert consultant for commercial real estate projects. "A single complaint can stop work for days, weeks, or even months."

Mitigation Tip:

Use noise-reducing equipment and conduct construction during permitted hours to avoid community backlash and potential delays.

7. Waste Management – Out of Sight, Out of Mind?

Construction generates a lot of waste—sometimes more than expected. Improper waste disposal can not only hurt the environment but also result in fines and project delays. About 40% of U.S. construction waste ends up in landfills, and Atlanta is no exception.

According to Terra Alma, managing waste efficiently is critical for the timely completion of any real estate project. Waste management plans are a top priority in the project planning for our real estate development consultants in Atlanta.

"If you don’t have a waste management plan, you’re setting yourself up for trouble," warns Bruce Harris. "It can slow everything down."

Mitigation Tip:

Create a detailed waste disposal plan before starting construction. Recycle as much as possible and comply with local waste disposal regulations to avoid hefty fines.

FAQs

1. What is soil contamination?
Soil contamination means the dirt has harmful substances like chemicals or oil.

2. Why are wetlands important?
Wetlands are important because they protect plants and animals. They also keep the water clean.

3. What can happen if air quality is bad?
If air quality is bad, it can harm people’s health and lead to fines for builders.

4. How do I manage water during construction?
You can manage water by creating drainage systems and planning for rain runoff.

5. What should I do about noise during construction?
Follow local noise rules and try to keep noise down during building hours.

Conclusion

Environmental concerns like soil contamination, wetlands, air quality, and wildlife disruption are critical issues that can delay or even derail your commercial real estate development project.

Terra Alma’s real estate development consultants in Atlanta address these concerns from day one for smooth project completion.

Addressing these concerns early in your planning process will save time and protect your investment. The good news is that your project can successfully handle these challenges with the right planning and expert consulting.

So, what are you waiting for? Pick up your phone and call Terra Alma now for a flawless project completion in Atlanta.