Buying a house is always a risk. But buyers are usually only on the lookout for bad deals, not for threats to their life. Some homes can be full of hidden dangers that can hurt you and your family. If you want to ensure your family will be safe from any potential risk, then you need to call for specific home inspections. Here are some of them that you should focus on.
Lead-Based Paint Inspection
Lead was a popular paint additive before studies came out that linked its presence to a variety of sicknesses and conditions. This includes kidney and brain damage because of the amount of lead that people absorbed through exposure. Children are especially vulnerable, so if you have children, checking for lead is a high priority. A lead-based paint inspection will have experts testing the paint all over your potential home for the presence of lead. If the home is from before 1978, then you should have the lead inspectors drop by.
Electrical System Inspection
A leading cause of house fires nowadays is faulty electrical systems. Open wiring and other electrical faults can lead to sparking a fire in your potential home. If the homeowner cannot present a recent Electrical Installation Condition Report certificate, then you should call in a professional electrician to do a certification. An EICR certificate ensures that the house’s electrical system is in good condition and meet the government standards for electrical safety. Besides ensuring your safety, it can also help reduce energy consumption. That can be good for your wallet in the future.
Asbestos Inspection
Asbestos is another hazardous substance that was very popular a few decades ago. This is because of its fire-retardant properties. Homeowners wanting more protection from fire integrated them into their construction plans. Unfortunately, asbestos fibers can cause lung damage and cancer from inhalation. Usually, it is safe if left alone. But aging homes with asbestos materials often mean the asbestos insulation is starting to leak out. If a house is from before 1980, then having an asbestos inspector come in is essential. If they do find asbestos, you can remove it with the help of hazardous materials disposal services.
Mold Inspection
Mold is not as harmless as it looks. The growth of mold can affect the air quality of a home as it releases its spores. Anyone with allergies will suffer severe issues in breathing. Sneezes and runny noses will be frequent, too. Mold can also hint that the house has a moisture problem, which is another health hazard. Mold inspections will require visual checks to thermal imaging for a full idea of how far it has spread.
Radon Inspection
Radon is a colorless, odorless gas that can cause lung cancer. It comes from the natural breakdown of some radioactive materials and can come from the ground and well water. Radon can also seep into a home through cracks from lower levels. You should always request sellers for a recent radon check of their property. A valid radon test is within two years of the current date. If they don’t have one, you can do the radon test yourself with a DIY kit, or you can call an expert.
The safety of your family is the highest priority. All these inspections are for identifying threats to your loved ones’ well-being. With their help, you can be sure your new home will not hurt them in any way.