There are environmental issues that you should be aware of before you purchase a home. If those issues arise after you purchase the home, it may be your responsibility to correct the problem rather than the sellers. Once you find a home that you are interested in, you should ask both your real estate agent and the seller if there are such issues. If the seller does not inform you of issues that he or she knew or should have known about, he could be charged with fraud. Following are some of the environmental issues same sex couples should be aware of when buying a home.
Asbestos
According to mesothelioma lawyers, asbestos is a strong and durable fibrous mineral that is found in the rocks and soil worldwide. In the past, this substance was used in building materials such as insulation until it was found that it caused cancer. If you plan to purchase a home that was built prior to the 1990s, this substance may be present. It is not a danger unless it has deteriorated or is crumbling or flaking. It can be expensive to correct the problem because the materials containing asbestos will have to be removed and, when that occurs, the fibers will be released into the air. For safety, a professional who specializes in asbestos cleanup should be hired.
Lead Paint
Lead Paint may be a problem in homes built before 1978. Generally, lead paint is not harmful if it is not cracked or peeling. If it is in bad repair, it will need to be removed or sealed to eliminate the danger it can pose. High levels of lead in the body can lead to permanent damage to red blood cells, the brain, kidneys and the central nervous system. Federal law requires that real estate agents obtain information from the seller and provide that information to a potential buyer in pre-1978 residential properties. A problem may arise if the seller chooses not to disclose this information or is not aware of its presence.
Mold
While mold generally occurs in homes in varying degrees and is generally not dangerous, certain types of molds can produce toxins that cause health problems, including allergy and upper respiratory tract symptoms including runny nose, eye irritation, coughing and wheezing. Recent studies have indicated that the presence of toxic mold may cause asthma in children. Consider seeking professional cleaning service from Hudson County Cleaners.
Removing mold on hard surfaces is as simple as cleaning using a specialized mold remediation procedure. If the mold has infested porous surfaces such as carpets and drywall, the only way to get rid of it is to remove and replace the material involved. Expert carpet cleaning ://www.carpetcleaningboltonpro.co.uk. If the mold has gained access behind walls and other inaccessible places, extensive rebuilding may be required.
Radon
Radon is a tasteless and odorless gas that results from the natural decay of uranium and is present in the soil and the atmosphere worldwide. The problem arises when the radon levels become too high. A radon testing should be completed by a Radon Gas Remediation company prior to purchase so that you are aware if there is a problem and can decide if you would like to go to the expense of installing a reduction or mitigation system in the home.
Water
Water quality should be a concern and should be tested before purchasing a home. Testing will reveal the presence of lead, arsenic and bacteria such as E-coli. The test will also reveal the levels of pH and water hardness as well as the presence of iron, manganese, fluoride and iron.
If you feel that the home that you would like to purchase may have an environmental issue, you can have an environmental inspection performed. The inspector will check water quality, test for radon and mold and test the soil and groundwater for contamination. If the home is old enough, testing for asbestos and lead paint can also be performed.
Before looking for a home to purchase, you should hire a professional LGBT real estate agent. He or she will be aware of any environmental issues in the neighborhoods where you are looking and will be aware of state laws that may require the seller to disclose any or all of the above environmental issues in a home you are interested in purchasing. To find the best LGBT agents available in your area, you should conduct a search on GayRealEstate.com.