Buying a house requires a lot of different steps to complete the process. More and more questions get asked about what information the consumer needs to assist them in making decisions to protect their family’s health as well as their investments. Having a home inspection definitely plays an important role in achieving this. There is a trend to take additional steps to protect health and investment issues, by having additional inspections performed. Some of the most common health questions include questions about mold, radon, lead, and water testing. The following are some of the most commonly asked questions:
Why should I have the water tested if the house I am buying has a private well?
To prevent the health risk of you and your family drinking or bathing in contaminated water. Sometimes a well becomes contaminated because it is defective. This can be very expensive to repair or replace. Your lender may require water testing. The EPA and The American Groundwater Trust recommend annual testing of a private well.
Is lead-based paint in my home a problem?
Not unless it is disturbed during remodeling or maintenance. lead base paint should be properly cared for and not allowed to deteriorate. Exposure to lead dust can cause permanent damage to the nervous system, especially in children and pets.
A trained professional can perform lead-dust testing to determine the lead levels.
Why should I ask for a radon test?
There is scientific proof that Radon gas is a known human lung carcinogen. Prolonged exposure to high levels of radon gas can cause lung cancer. If you do not have a test, it could cost you up to two thousand dollars to have a radon mitigation system installed after closing.
Why is mold a problem?
Mold can cause health problems and not be visible. If left untreated it can continue to grow and spread, eating building materials like wood and dry wall. Mold spores can cause many health problems including:
Ø Asthma and allergic reactions
Ø Respirator problems
Ø Nasal and sinus congestion
Ø Burning, watery, red eyes or blurry vision
Ø Sore throat and dry cough
Ø Skin irritation
Ø Sometimes nervous system problems
Finding out what additional testing you should have done on your home is very important to you and your family’s health. You will find that most testing is not expensive, but can sure save you money in the future.
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