If your council has requested a Preliminary Site Investigation, here’s what to expect.
A Preliminary Site Investigation (PSI) is often required as part of the Development Application (DA) process — especially if your property has a history of industrial, agricultural, or commercial use. Its purpose is to determine whether there’s a risk of soil, groundwater, or site contamination that could impact your development plans.
Here’s what the process looks like when you work with Integrated Environmental Pty Ltd.
Step 1: Site History Review
We begin with a desktop review of your site’s past uses, zoning, and any available records from the EPA, council, Lotsearch reports or aerial imagery. This helps us identify if any former activities (e.g., vehicle repair, fuel storage, fill material) may have contributed to contamination.
Step 2: Site Inspection
Our consultants then attend the site for a physical inspection, looking for:
- Evidence of fill or waste dumping
- Suspect staining, drums, or tanks
- Old building materials (e.g., asbestos, lead paint)
- Drainage or runoff pathways
We take field notes, photos, and map out any areas of concern.
Step 3: Reporting
We compile a formal PSI report in accordance with the NSW EPA Contaminated Land Guidelines and NEPM (2013). This includes:
- Summary of findings
- Conceptual site model
- Assessment of contamination risk
- Recommendations (e.g., whether a Detailed Site Investigation is needed)
Step 4: Submission to Council
You can submit this PSI report directly with your DA application. Councils use it to determine whether further testing is needed or if your project can proceed.
Fast Turnaround. Clear Results.
At Integrated Environmental, we understand that time is critical when it comes to planning approvals. That’s why we:
- Mobilise within 2–3 business days of engagement
- Provide PSI reports tailored to specific council requirements
- Offer follow-up support for DSI, RAPs, and validation if required
Need a PSI fast? Contact Integrated Environmental and avoid costly DA delays.