Termites, mold, lead, water, radon,asbestos, and septic system issues are all potential environmental health hazards in the home. It is critical to be aware of these potential hazards and to work with highly trained, experienced home inspectors to keep your property comfortable and safe.
Learn more about the following home environmental hazards and what you can do to keep your home safe:
Termites- Termites are the most destructive insect in the United States and elsewhere. Their destructive power is simply astounding, and they cause millions of dollars in damage each year. We often forget that termites attacking our homes are simply carrying out their natural function of breaking down wood. Termites are common in forests as wood recyclers.
Radon - Radon is a carcinogenic radioactive gas. Radon cannot be seen, smelled, or tasted, but it may be a problem in your home. This is because breathing radon-contaminated air increases your risk of developing lung cancer. In fact, according to the Surgeon General, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer.
Drinking Water - Do you know if the water your family drinks is safe to drink if it comes from a private well? What health risks might you and your family be exposed to? Where can you go for assistance or advice?
Mold and Mildew - Fungi are molds. Molds can be found in both the natural and built environments. Mold spores can be found in both indoor and outdoor air. Molds help decompose dead materials and can be found growing on soil, foods, plant matter, and other items in nature. Molds produce microscopic cells known as "spores," which are extremely small and easily spread through the air. When the right conditions are met, live spores act like seeds, forming new mold growths (colonies).
Septic Systems - Septic systems treat and disperse relatively small volumes of wastewater from individual or small groups of homes and businesses. Septic system regulation is typically the responsibility of the state, tribal, and local governments. The EPA provides information to homeowners as well as assistance to state and local governments in order to improve septic system management and prevent failures that could harm human health and water quality.
Lead - Prior to the federal government's ban on lead-based paints in 1978, it was used in many homes. Lead is present in lead-based paints, as the name implies. Many documented cases of lead poisoning can be traced back to lead contamination caused by the breakdown of such paints. Lead-based paint poses little risk in good condition, but those that begin to peel, chip, chalk, or crack pose a health risk.
Asbestos- Asbestos is a mineral fiber found in rocks that can be separated into fibers from naturally occurring silicate minerals. Asbestos fibers come in a variety of forms, all of which are resistant to fire and are not easily destroyed or degraded by natural processes.