An older home can be full of charm, but you want to pay attention to the hidden risks that comes along with it.
Not to say your shouldn’t move forward with the home, it may be in your ideal location and be at your price point. Before moving forward we want to make sure you’re protected, especially if there are children involved. They are more fragile when it comes to hazardous material.
Now when you consider the purchase of an old home, don’t skip out on the home inspection! You want to know what’s in your home, so you can take the proper steps to negotiate or budget for a remediation.
2 common hazards seen in older homes:
Lead Paint
Lead paint was commonly used until 1976 and may be present in an older home. The seller of the home must declare lead paint in the home if they have had it tested.
Testing
Make sure you ask your home inspector about Lead Paint and ensure you have all the information going into the purchase of the home. If you don’t do a home inspection you could miss the opportunity to have the seller remediate the issue, or bring the purchase price down.
Remediation of Lead Paint
Encapsulation
Seal the paint to a surface
Not a long term solution as the material may wear off
Enclosure
New drywall
Wallpaper
Removal:
Lead can be highly toxic and should be removed by a professional
Replacement:
New Windows, Doors, and surfaces that contain lead paint
Asbestos
Asbestos can be found in insulation board, shingles, ceiling and floor tiles, and cement. A good home inspector can point out what looks to be asbestos, but you won’t know for sure until you have it tested.
Remediation of Asbestos:
Don’t disturb unless necessary, it isn’t a hazard unless it’s airborne
Encapsulate
Seal surface to prevent fibers from becoming airborne
Enclose
Covering asbestos containing material
Demolition
If you are planning a renovation or demolition in a home that contains asbestos you will need professional services.
We offer both Lead and Asbestos Abatement Services