A due diligence exercise is vital in gaining an understanding of the risks and costs associated with acquisitions and sales transactions both at home and abroad.

Environmental audits generally relate to: licences, air, water, waste water, soil, waste, asbestos, hazardous substances, internal and external safety, environmental management etc.

An audit usually includes the following elements: document review, site visits, interviews with personnel and the drafting of a brief and clear report, including cost estimates.

Experience has shown that a sound due diligence exercise can help prevent unpleasant surprises in future.