Due to its properties of heat resistance, insulation, sound dampening, and low cost, asbestos was used in home and business construction all the way until its partial ban in the late 80s. Homeowners of these older homes need to be aware of the risks in their home, especially before a remodel. We’ve already looked at the basement and the attic for common asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). Now let’s look in the living spaces of a home between them. [Read more…] about Asbestos on the Ground Floor: Living Spaces and Bedrooms
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The Findings of the EPA’s SNUR Ruling on Asbestos
It’s been a while since the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) had issued any findings or ruling on asbestos or asbestos-related products. Ever since the Asbestos Ban and Phase-Out Rule (ABPR) was gutted in 1991 in the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, there has been a grey area when it comes to certain asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). Some have worried new EPA rulings could either expand that grey area or allow new asbestos manufacturing and product use in the United States. [Read more…] about The Findings of the EPA’s SNUR Ruling on Asbestos
Asbestos in Apartments: Presence and Liability
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
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
