An environmental audit designed to protect owners from liability focuses on:

• A. Tenant safety
• B. Health hazard liability
• C. Property value depreciation
• D. Employee safety

Answer: (B)

An environmental audit aimed at protecting owners from liability centers on health-hazard liability by identifying environmental conditions that could expose people to harmful substances. It looks for risks such as asbestos, lead-based paint, mold, radon, contaminated soil or groundwater, air or water quality issues, and improper handling or disposal of hazardous materials. By uncovering and mitigating these hazards, the owner reduces the potential for regulatory penalties, lawsuits, or claims from tenants or visitors. While tenant or employee safety and potential impacts on property value can be related consequences, the primary purpose of this type of audit is to minimize health-related liability.