All industrial societies have in the past allowed land to become contaminated in various ways over many years.

Various industrial practices have led to oils and tars, heavy metals and so forth being on or under land.

In the past, landfilling of waste sometimes took place without adequate precautions against escape. Land in this condition can pose a serious threat to health or the environment.

The statutory regime follows the polluter-pays principle. If a remediation notice has to be served, or if the authority carries out the remediation in an emergency, the cost of remediation will normally lie with the person(s) who caused or knowingly permitted the contamination. But if the polluter cannot be found, or is insolvent, the owner or occupier of the land may be responsible.

If your property meets the definition of contaminated land, then you may need specialist surveys and advice. We can arrange contaminated land searches if you require.

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