Defects ...

Environmental Issues

Increasingly, environmental issues are a topic of concern.  In part because as more research is done, we understand more about how our environment affects our health.  The good news is that over time, this knowledge has been used to improve products, materials, and the way homes are built. 

There isn't anything to be concerned about with most mondern homes.  However, we feel that there are a number of environmental topics that you should be aware of.  Information about these topics is well documented and available to the public through a variety of US Government and Industry sources.  (click on topic to learn more). 

Asbestos -

Asbestos was used in home construction until 1978.   Although used in many different home building components, asbestos was most often used as an insulating material.   Asbestos is known to be carcinogenic when fibers become airborne and are inhaled into the lungs. 

Lead -

Lead was used in paint until 1978.  In addition, lead was often in plumbing systems in the roaring twenties.  Lead is considered hazardous when introduced to the body by being inhaled or ingested. 

Mold -

Since mold spores are everywhere and the food they eat abundant, the key to preventing mold is controlling moisture.  Luckily, the most common molds found on bathroom tiles are not hazardous, however, some molds called toxigens are considered a health hazard. 

Radon -

Radon is a colorless, odorless gas that occurs naturally.  It is present in most all homes, however prolonged exposure to high concentrations is recognized as a cause for cancer.  Remediation systems can be installed to lower concentrations. 

Water Quality -

A water quality test is paramount for homes that rely on a well to supply potable water.  Certain chemical contaminants that are sometimes found in a water source can cause long-term health problems.  Harmful bacteria, parasites, and viruses are invisible to the naked eye, so water that looks and tastes good may not necessarily be safe to drink.  Once identified, treatment systems can be installed to remove most contaminants. 

Please note that your NAHIPA Member Inspector is a generalist who covers a wide variety of areas.  The purpose of a generalist inspection is to identify any significant defects or adverse conditions that would warrant evaluation or remedy by a specialist. 

Each of these environmental concerns require that analysis is done by a specialist.  Therefore, we recommend that if you have any concerns about specific environmental issues, or if your home inspector point out any areas for concern, that you contact someone who specializes in that area. 

Additional Details: Asbestos | Lead | Mold | Radon | Water Quality

Related topics: Common Defects | Pest Control Issues

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