Contaminated Land Walkover Surveys For Planning Permission & Due Diligence

A walkover survey allows the assessor to identify visible signs of contamination at a site, in order to determine the potential risk to site users or to confirm the absence of such contamination. Walkover surveys are commonly be carried out as part of wider contaminated land risk assessments, and are often recommended by local authorities for contaminated land investigations produced to support planning applications or comply with planning conditions.

How to conduct a walkover survey? - In order to carry out a Phase 1 Preliminary Risk Assessment (desk study), the first phase of a contaminated land investigation, a walkover survey will usually be required to allow the assessor to identify visual or olfactory evidence of contamination on a site that would otherwise be impossible to identify without visiting the site. A walkover survey for a contaminated land investigation is a straightforward process that involves visiting a site to make observations of potential contamination sources and pathways. As outlined in Environment Agency's Land Contamination: Risk Management guidelines, a site walkover should record information such as the:

- Current use and status of the site - occupied or vacant
- General condition of site and surrounding land use
- Presence of visual surface staining and odours
- Topography and surface condition - open ground, hardstanding and other geotechnical or surface features
- Local surface water features
- Ecology
- Presence and type of vegetation
- Presence and extent of any invasive plant species
- Buildings and below or above ground structures such as fuel tanks
- Above and likely below ground services
- Access and security

Conceptual Site Model - Once potential sources of contamination have been determined by the walkover survey, potential pathways are identified to assess the possibility of pollutant linkages being present. This will involve collecting information on the type, extent, location and behaviour of potential contaminants, information on site drainage and other man-made potential pollutant pathways, type of receptor you are dealing with (e.g. human health, controlled waters, ecology or property) and characteristics of the people and the environment potentially affected by the contaminants.

When is a Walkover Survey Needed?

A desk study alone may not be able to identify contamination sources that aren't visible on maps and in photos, so these may go unnoticed. For example, rural sites are unlikely to be very detailed on a map and there may not be a lot of information available for the site in online databases, therefore, a walkover survey is necessary to identify site specific contamination risks.

Even small sites where contamination is not expected to be present a walkover survey will often be required in order to confirm the absence of contamination sources and confidently conclude a low level of risk. During a site investigation, a walkover survey can also allow the assessor to obtain anecdotal evidence of potential contamination at a site, from site owners, users or neighbours, which would otherwise be impossible to identify without visiting the site and talking to local residents or workers.

A walkover survey is an essential part of a contaminated land investigation, produced to support a planning application or comply with planning conditions. Contaminated land planning conditions on a decision notice are often shown as a phased process, with the first stage being a preliminary risk assessment (desk study) that will often require a supporting walkover survey to be accepted by the local authority.

Meet Our Contaminated Land Consultants

Louis Turner, Technical Director - Having graduated from the University of Nottingham with a degree in Environmental Science, Louis is recognised for his technical leadership and precision in environmental consultancy. Louis provides strategic oversight across all service areas, ensuring projects meet the highest standards of compliance, accuracy, and environmental responsibility. Louis directs contaminated land investigations, from desk-based risk assessments to intrusive site surveys. He ensures soil and ground gas analysis is conducted to UKAS-accredited standards, producing clear, evidence-based reports that support planning applications, regulatory approvals, and safe development decisions.

Joe Turner, Operations Director - Providing practical expertise and a client-focused approach, Joe ensures that every project is delivered quickly, efficiently, and without unnecessary hassle. He has successfully managed a wide variety of project types across the consultancy, bringing a wealth of operational knowledge and a reputation for keeping projects on track. Joe's leadership guarantees a smooth process for clients, from initial enquiry through to final reporting. Joe oversees contaminated land investigations, coordinating desk studies, site surveys, and remediation works. His operational management ensures that soil sampling, ground gas monitoring, and reporting are completed seamlessly, giving clients confidence in compliance and project delivery.

Richard Turner, Director - With over 30 years of experience in site development, he provides invaluable insight into pragmatic solutions that balance costs, practicalities, and client objectives. Richard has a detailed understanding of building regulations and a clear sense of what is and isn't possible on site, making him a trusted advisor for developments of all sizes. Richard applies his site development expertise to contaminated land investigations, ensuring that remediation strategies are practical, cost effective, and achievable on site. His focus on feasibility helps clients move forward with confidence.

Request A Walkover Survey

Contact us for an informal discussion about your requirements or, if your requirements are more complex, a more formal consultation may be necessary. Following initial consultation we can provide an outline proposal detailing how we can help and the costs involved. If you're looking for more information about our services or our company then complete the below contact form and we will endeavour to respond to your enquiry in a timely manner, alternatively, give us a call on 0800 433 2906 and our experienced consultants can provide actionable advice and guidance.

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References
Environment Agency. Land contamination risk management (LCRM)