What Are Some Real Estate Environmental Hazards?

Despite the seller's best intention, every property will likely have some environmental hazards associated with it. Evidence of environmental concerns may not uncover themselves in a search of the title deed history, or even during the open house. These hidden hazards can be spotted however during the home inspection, provided someone who is qualified is performing it. The following environmental hazards are the ones you will likely see during your journey to home ownership.

The Problem of Asbestos

In the past, asbestos was utilized to help solve many issues in housing construction. In essence this material is a nature of stringy mineral that is hesitant to flame, and was utilized as building an insulation materials in many buildings. It has been used in everything from wall board to HVAC insulation. Over time however, it was discovered that asbestos posed a significant health danger for those who came in contact with the microscopic particles - a lung disease called asbestosis, as well as a cancer known as mesothelioma. This new information prompted the U.S. government to outlaw its use in 1979. It is often seen in older homes, since the usage of it was so prevalent in the late sixties and early seventies. If you suspect that asbestos is in the home you are viewing, have a professional look at it to determine if it is a environmental and health concern.

Lead Paint and Other Materials

The use of lead is perhaps even more prevalent in houses with historical character. Lead was most often utilized in the paint found around the interior and exterior of the house, and the piping found within it. The paint was found on both the interior and exterior of the homes, and is most often found on windows or doors. Unfortunately, lead was found to be a toxic substance, and one that remains in the body long after a person has been exposed to it. Exposure to the lead paint is often felt by kids and the elderly, and the resultant health complications can vary widely. Most sufferers of lead poisoning experience high blood pressure, digestive problems, overall weakness, and possibly memory problems to name a few. If the paint is eaten, it could potentially damage the minds of kids, leading to reduced intelligence, impaired memory, balance and hearing. Lead based paint was made illegal in 1978. Also, the Lead Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act of 1992 entitles the purchaser of the home to be informed about the existence of any lead based paint on the property. If you think about all the health and environmental hazards associated with lead paint, taking the time to decide if the house has it is worth the effort.

The environmental hazards listed here are only two of the ones you may uncover while searching for your next home. They are valid concerns, and if you suspect either lead paint or asbestos to be present in your next potential purchase, it is definitely worth investigating further.

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