WJH Engineering is currently providing Due Diligence / Feasibility Services for over 1,500 residential units throughout the state of New Jersey. These services help to identify potential risks associated with a project, and they aid developers in making informed financial decisions before investing in properties.
When performing due diligence on a project site, we typically begin by looking at the zoning requirements (minimum lot size, setbacks, density, & permitted uses). This is especially important for subdivisions and multi-unit residential projects, as the zoning requirements will dictate how many lots can be created from one parcel. We also consider if any outside agencies, such as CAFRA, The Pinelands National Reserve, or NJDOT, will have jurisdiction over a project. Each of these agencies has their own set of regulations that a developer must abide by, and they can have a significant influence on a project’s scope.
After that, we will identify any environmental constraints. For example, areas that are identified as wetlands will be subject to various restrictions that can greatly reduce the buildable area within a tract. Similarly, we will look at the state and federal flood maps (FEMA) to determine if the lands lie within a flood hazard area. If so, a developer will need to make certain provisions to protect the property from flooding, in accordance with NJDEP’s latest stormwater regulations.
Due diligence and feasibility services are crucial for developers and design engineers alike. They help professionals get a better grasp on a project’s scope, and they can identify potential risks, roadblocks, and future delays far in advance. If you are a developer looking to begin a new project, contact WJH Engineering today for thorough due diligence services.