What is the objective of conducting a UST site assessment?

The objective of conducting a UST site assessment primarily focuses on evaluating potential contamination that may have occurred due to leaks or spills from underground storage tanks. This assessment is critical for identifying the presence and extent of hazardous substances in the soil and groundwater, which may pose risks to human health and the environment. By determining the levels of contamination, remediation efforts can be planned and executed effectively to mitigate any harmful effects.

Understanding the potential for contamination is essential for compliance with environmental regulations and for safeguarding the surrounding community. Moreover, recognizing contamination issues early can help in addressing environmental liabilities before they escalate into larger problems. Thus, while other options like assessing structural integrity or determining property value may be relevant in different contexts, they do not directly address the fundamental purpose of a UST site assessment. The emphasis is on identifying and evaluating contamination to ensure safety and compliance.