The safety of your home is a top priority, and many of the environmental hazards we inspect for are difficult to identify without the proper equipment and training. These hazards include synthetic materials and naturally occurring risk factors that can pose a potential threat to your health:
Lead Testing
Lead Testing
Lead is a very toxic heavy metal that was once used in many building products and materials. Most frequently, it’s present in homes in the form of paints, contaminated dusts, and contaminated soil. Chronic exposure can lead to a host of health problems, including developmental disorders, seizures, lung cancer, and death. The use of lead was banned in the 1980s, so if your current or potential home was constructed before then, you should consider lead testing.
Radon Testing
Radon testing
Radon is a very radioactive gas that accumulates as trace radioactive metals present in soil decay over time. It can enter homes through porous or cracked foundations, or through the floorboards of improperly vented crawlspaces. Radon is a carcinogen, and it’s been attributed to a staggering number of lung disease cases within the U.S. It can only be detected with the proper equipment, and because it’s undetectable without these tools, health and environmental experts recommend all homes be tested for radon.
Asbestos
Asbestos
If your home was built between the years of 1930 and 1950, asbestos may be present. Originally used for its fire resistant and heat insulating properties, old asbestos crumbles easily. Frequent exposure to its fibers can cause significant lung damage, with complications ranging from lung cancer to mesothelioma. Particularly if you’re considering remodeling an older home, you may need to consider an asbestos test during your inspection.
Septic
Septic
Before you buy an older home, it’s critical you test the condition of the property’s septic system to determine if it’s in need of repair or replacement. Septic system replacement is expensive so let us run a number of tests to eliminate unforeseen expenses that may arise after you have purchased the property. In our inspections, we can check for surface water leaks, evaluate levels of sludge and scum, and determine if the system needs to be pumped or replaced.
The integrity of your home or place of business is of the utmost importance. Ensure both the health of your structure and loved ones by taking the necessary precautions. If your home or office is within the Athens, Lawrenceville, Marietta, McDonough, Atlanta or Metro Atlanta areas, we will be more than happy to help you maintain the healthiest lifestyle possible. For more information on how these common household hazards can be detected, catalogued and eliminated, feel free to request an individualized quote below.