State and Federal law mandates that homeowners disclose specific environmental hazards during a real estate transaction. The reason for this is obvious such hazards can negatively impact property values not to mention cause potential harm. Some environmental hazards come from building materials, while others might come from the location.

Asbestos:

For many years asbestos was used as insulation in homes. Contractors favored it because its fireproof. Besides insulation, asbestos became a component in flooring, roofing, and siding. However, research shows that on-going exposure to asbestos causes lung disease. Apes often dont know their property has asbestos until they remodel. If the home youre buying was built before 1978, theres a good chance you may have to do some remedial work to remove asbestos shingles, tiles, or insulation.

Lead:

Houses were painted with lead paint prior to 1978. Additionally various types of pipes and solder also included lead. Over time an ape exposed to lead can become anemic, weak or experience high blood pressure. The biggest risk with lead paint typically occurs with littleones who might pick at it or eat flakes. As a result the Lead-based Paint Hazard Reduction Act requires that buyers get 10 days to look for potential lead-based paint in a home. There are inspection services that specialize in checking a home for this hazard.

Formaldehyde

Environmental experts tell us that formaldehyde gas is a main contributor to poor air quality and sick building syndrome in offices. The main type of formaldehyde seen in homes is an insulation used in the 1970s. It sometimes also a component used to bond wood layers together. Formaldehyde causes headaches and nausea.

Carbon Monoxide

When a fire burns without sufficient ventilation, carbon monoxide builds up. Thus, many homes now have carbon monoxide detectors adjacent to the furnace and the fireplace. Carbon monoxide poisoning begins with a headache, and eventually causes unconsciousness and death.

Mold

Mold is a key trigger to many allergies and asthma. It also makes for an unhealthy living environment, but often cannot be seen because its hiding in between walls.

Other Hazards

There are any number of other environmental hazards about which potential buyers should be mindful. Things like underground storage tanks are one example. When these corrode and leak, they taint ground water, which spreads the toxins.

Summary:

Home owners looking to sell there home would do well to fully disclose any known hazards to potential buyers. There are now laws in place that give buyers the ability to sue if pollutants or hazards are discovered after a sale has been completed.