As a landlord, you’ve got many relationships with your tenants. Some are financial in terms of rent and insurance. Some are obligations, such as maintenance and repair. And some are legal. Part of your legal requirements (in almost every state, including those in New England) is to provide “livable rentals” for your tenants. If you discover or believe there may be asbestos present in your apartments, you need to take measures to protect your tenants, workers, and yourself. [Read more…] about Asbestos in Apartments: Presence and Liability
Archives for September 2019
The Signs and Symptoms of Asbestos Exposure
While now banned in the United States, asbestos was used in construction materials until the end of the 1980s. When asbestos fibers are disturbed from decaying materials, construction, or a host of other possibilities, they can become airborne where they pose a risk to those who live or work within the building. Once asbestos is inhaled, long exposure to the fibers can lead to a host of symptoms that – if left unchecked – can have dire long-term consequences. [Read more…] about The Signs and Symptoms of Asbestos Exposure
Selling a Home with Hazardous Materials
The process of selling (or buying) a home is a long and potentially nerve-wracking process. Not only is there the inevitable packing and cleaning, but the process of vetting and potentially remedying defects of a home can draw out the sale and put sellers in hot water if they fail to disclose. It’s important for sellers to understand what requirements they have to identify and disclose hazardous materials like asbestos, lead, and mold when selling a home, as well as what to expect from potential buyers. [Read more…] about Selling a Home with Hazardous Materials
The Age of Homes and Lead Paint
Many older homes have hidden secrets that can endanger the health and wellness of its family and those who work on it, such as during renovation. One of the most common hazardous materials is lead paint. Before the ban of the late 1970s, lead paint was commonly used in buildings – from households and schools to businesses and industry. Now, it’s important that with any older home from the position of the homeowner to homebuyer to do your due diligence for homes and lead paint. [Read more…] about The Age of Homes and Lead Paint
