Buying a home is a major responsibility, and home inspection is one of the biggest steps in the process. An inspector will go through this process to check the structure and system of the home. While plumbing and roofing account for most of it, there is more. Environmental factors play a huge role in determining whether a home is safe and comfortable.
So, what exactly are these environmental factors, and why should they matter to you? Let’s take a closer look.
What Is An Environmental Factor?
In-home inspections, an environmental factor refers to conditions in and around the property that could impact people’s health, safety, or overall well-being. This can include anything from air quality to the risk of flooding. It is vital to be alert to these problems to ensure a safe living environment. Let’s consider the most common environmental factors when buying a home.Common Environmental Factors to Look Out For
Let’s discuss some common environmental factors to look for during a home inspection.Mold And Mildew
Mold is one of the most common and concerning environmental factors in homes. It is most often caused by poor ventilation or water leakage and can grow in the basement or behind walls. It has also been shown to trigger allergies, asthma, and other respiratory problems.- Signs Of Concern: Musty smell, visible patches on walls, ceilings, and floors.
- What To Do: Arrange for the inspector to examine areas prone to water damage and high humidity.
Radon Levels
Radon is a naturally occurring gas from the ground. You can’t see it, smell it, or taste it. But according to the Environmental Protection Agency, it is one of the leading causes of lung cancer for non-smokers. Radon is present in about one in fifteen homes in the US.- Signs Of Concern: You cannot see signs, so you have to have radon testing as part of your home check.
- What To Do: If elevated radon levels are found, you can install a radon mitigation system to significantly reduce the risk.
Asbestos
Before the 1970s, asbestos was commonly used in home building materials such as insulation, flooring, and roofing. Those planning on buying an older home may be at risk for exposure. Its mere presence is not dangerous, but if the material is damaged or disturbed, it will release harmful fibers into the air.- Signs Of Concern: Asbestos is not easy to detect without testing. Check it yourself or ask the inspector to check your attic or basement in older homes for asbestos.
- What To Do: Leave it to the experts and hire someone to remove it.
Pest Infestation
Termites, rodents, and insects cause much more than a nuisance; they can also cause damage to your home. A good example is termites that will eat through wood and weaken the home’s structure. Pests also introduce allergens and bacteria into your living environment.- Signs Of Concern: Hollow-sounding wood, insect droppings, nests, or damaged wires or insulation.
- What To Do: Engage experts in detecting pest infestation and its removal.
Air Quality
Indoor air quality is another important environmental factor. Pollutants such as dust, pet dander, poor air ventilation, or mold lower the air quality, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from paints and furniture are airborne and threaten your health. Polluted air can harm your respiratory system and lead to health problems, especially for children, patients, and people with weak immunity or allergy issues.- Sign Of Concern: Stale air, musty scents, or visible mold.
- What To Do: Ask the inspector to monitor the air quality and ask them what you should do to improve the situation if necessary.
Lead-Based Paint
Homes built before 1978 had lead-based paint. Lead can seriously affect your health, especially if you are a child or a pregnant woman. You must find out if your home still has lead-based paint.- Signs Of Concern: Flakes or peeling paint in homes erected before 1978.
- What To Do: Have a professional conduct a lead test, detect the lead level, and suggest remedies.
Flooding And Water Damage Risk
The most significant environmental hazards include flooding, which can cause severe damage to a home and can be found in areas prone to heavy rains or near bodies of water. If the property is in a flood zone, you have to understand the risks and costs regarding potential flood risks.- Signs Of Concern: Water stains in the basement, dampness in the basement, or mold.
- What To Do: Check the area’s flood history and have the inspector review drainage systems and waterproofing.