When a property needs to be screened for potential environmental concerns, a Records Search with Risk Assessment (RSRA) is often required. Mid-South Testing, Inc., based in Decatur, AL, provides RSRA reports in Alabama, Mississippi, Georgia and throughout the Southeastern US. These reports meet SBA requirements and are used to determine whether a property presents a low or elevated environmental risk before a loan or real estate transaction moves forward.
What Is an RSRA?
A Records Search with Risk Assessment (RSRA) is an environmental due diligence report often required by the Small Business Administration (SBA) for certain commercial real estate loans. It is a desktop review that evaluates a property’s historical use and regulatory records to determine whether there may be potential environmental contamination.
It combines:
- A search of federal, state, tribal, and local environmental databases
- A review of historical records (aerials, topographic maps, directories, etc.)
- A professional risk assessment prepared by an environmental professional
Purpose: To determine whether a property has a Low or Elevated environmental risk.
It is less detailed than a Phase I Environmental Site Assessment, but more thorough than a simple database report.
Who Needs an RSRA?
You may need an RSRA if you are:
- Applying for an SBA 7(a) or 504 loan
- Purchasing or refinancing commercial or industrial property
- A lender evaluating collateral risk
- A buyer, seller, developer, or attorney needing quick environmental screening
- Working with properties like offices, retail, warehouses, light industrial, or vacant land
Mid-South Testing’s experts provide trusted environmental due diligence backed by 45+ years of experience throughout the Southeast. Call 256-351-7900 for your free quote.
When Do You Need It?
An RSRA is typically required:
- Before loan approval or closing
- Early in the due diligence process to determine if further investigation (such as a Phase I ESA) is needed
- When SBA policy allows RSRA instead of Phase I (based on property type and NAICS code)
If the RSRA identifies “Elevated Risk,” a Phase I ESA will be required next.
How Much Does It Cost?
Because it does not require a site visit, an RSRA is faster and more affordable than a full Phase I ESA—while still providing a clear picture of potential risk. RSRA pricing depends on several factors, including:
- Property type and size
- Number of parcels
- Availability of historical records
- Required turnaround time
We offer free quotes with clear, upfront pricing & no hidden fees or surprises!
Why Choose Mid-South Testing?
- Over 45 years of environmental experience serving Decatur, Huntsville, Birmingham, Mobile, and communities across Alabama, Mississippi, and Georgia
- Trusted by lenders, attorneys, buyers, and developers across the Southeast
- SBA-compliant reports completed by qualified environmental professionals
- Fast turnaround and local expertise in Alabama, Mississippi, and Georgia
- One-stop solution—we can handle Phase I & Phase II ESAs if needed
Get Your RSRA Quote
For a free quote and clear, upfront pricing, contact us!
Frequently Asked Questions
No. An RSRA cannot replace a Phase I ESA for all properties. It is only accepted for certain SBA loans and specific property types that are considered lower risk, such as offices, retail, light industrial, or vacant land. If a property is higher risk or the RSRA identifies potential environmental concerns, a full Phase I Environmental Site Assessment will be required.
An RSRA report can be used for both refinancing and new SBA loans, as long as the property and loan type meet SBA eligibility requirements. However, if the property’s use has changed significantly or the RSRA identifies potential environmental concerns, a Phase I ESA may still be required.
Not necessarily. RSRA reports are accepted by many SBA lenders, but some lenders may still require a Phase I ESA depending on their internal policies or the property’s risk level. It’s always best to confirm with your lender before ordering an RSRA.
Yes. Multiple parcels can be included in a single RSRA report, but the report will need to evaluate each parcel individually for historical use, regulatory records, and potential environmental risk. Including multiple parcels may also affect the turnaround time and cost.
Yes. Many environmental firms, including Mid-South Testing, offer expedited RSRA services for properties with tight closing schedules. Rush processing may be available for an additional fee, and the exact turnaround time depends on the property’s complexity and the number of parcels being reviewed.
Related ESA Services
- Environmental Site Assessments Overview
- Transaction Screen Assessment (TSA) by ASTM E1528-22
- Phase I Environmental Site Assessments
- Phase II Environmental Site
- Phase III Environmental Site Assessments