Real Estate Agent’s Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who is EDR?

   Environmental Data Resources, Inc. (EDR) is the nation’s leading and most trusted provider of environmental risk information services for real estate transactions. With the largest collection of local, state, and federal environmental information in the U.S., it generates over 750,000 environmental risk reports a year in support of real estate transactions as well as corporate and government initiatives. Established in 1991, EDR is headquartered in Milford, Connecticut with regional offices located throughout the United States. EDR is wholly owned by DMG Information Inc., the business information division of Daily Mail and General Trust, plc (DMGT).

2. Will the EDR Neighborhood Environmental Report unecessarily frighten homebuyers?

   The EDR Report provides valuable information that allows a home buyer to make an informed decision and protect both his family and his investment. In most cases, the EDR Report will show “Good News!” indicating there are no issues within 300 feet (or a 6-acre circle) of the property. This information helps provide homebuyers with peace of mind when making what is likely the biggest investment of their lifetime.

3. If homebuyers have any questions about findings in the report who will answer them?

   All EDR-Certified inspectors must complete a training course and are prepared to deliver the report’s findings to a buyer or seller as well as provide follow up direction where necessary.

4. Are EDR reports a "green" service?

   EDR believes in order to be green you have to be clean. That means it is important to examine what has happened in the past on a property or in a neighborhood.

5. If the EDR report finds an issue of concern on the property won’t the transaction fall through?

   As in a home inspection, just because a problem is revealed, it does not mean that the transaction will fall apart. It may result in some further negotiations but all parties will be informed and able to take the appropriate steps to solve the issue. Often times the problem can be resolved by installing a water filtration system or a ventilation system similar to those used for radon.

6. If a significant environmental issue is found in a report, what are the next steps?

   Next steps vary slightly depending on the type of issue found and specific circumstances. For example, if there is a well on the property, a homebuyer may choose to have the water tested for possible contaminants. In most cases, acquiring additional information and explanation from the home inspector, relevant government agency, or EDR will address any concerns. The report contains contact information for the government agency responsible for reporting and monitoring contaminated sites. 

7. Will the report create unecessary problems and complicate the transaction?

   The vast majority of EDR Neighborhood Environmental Reports will not find significant environmental issues that can interfere with a transaction. From a risk management standpoint, if a problem is found, disclosing it is in the best interest of all parties. Also, keep in mind that identifying and properly reporting environmental issues reduces the chances for last- minute surprises, difficult negotiations, and post-closing problems.

8. What is the benefit to the seller?

   Because in most cases the EDR Report will not find any significant issues on a property, it can increase buyer confidence and makes the property and surrounding neighborhood more attractive. In a case where a problem is serious enough that it is not easily rectified, then disclosing the issue provides some liability protection for all parties involved.

9. What is the benefit to the buyer?

   The report provides the homebuyer with important information that increases their peace of mind that there are no hidden problems on the property they are considering that could affect their family’s health or investment, and that they are making the best choice.