Most homes built after the late seventies, are assumed to be free of asbestos and many other common environmental hazards, such as lead. There are several other environmental hazards that could be of concern Radon, Methane Gas, Formaldehyde, Radiation, Termites, Rodents, Molds, Microbes, etc. Most of these we as normal inspectors do not have the necessary certifications or tools to identify the contaminants, but there are signs in which we can look for to help our clients be aware and take the necessary precautions to protect themselves as home owners and us as inspectors. We can learn more about environmental issues by going to WWW.EPA.GOV/IAQ/PUBS.

Mold today is a highly litigated issue and should be approached with caution from the homeowners perspective and from ours as home inspectors. Mold is fungus and a living organism, like all living things if we cut off the source of nutrients that the mold is feeding off of, then the mold will die and once re mediated will no longer be a threat. In most cases water combines itself with the, lets say, Gypsum Board also know as drywall. When that drywall and moisture meet, it produces fungus. The first thing to in this case is find the source of moisture and eliminate it. Once your pipes are fixed its now time to re mediate, this should be handled by a licensed mold remediation professional to avoid health complications.<a href="http://technorati.com/claim/h5nzt7hu2e" rel="me">Technorati Profile</a>