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 Additional Types of Home Inspections 

 Lead Paint Survey/Inspection 

Even though lead paint hasn't been used to paint houses since the 60's, there are many homes today that still have been painted with lead based paint at one time or another. When ingested, lead accumulates in the body and can lead to death or permanent damage to the central nervous system, brain, kidneys, and red blood cells. Infants and children are the most susceptible to lead-based paint poisoning. Studies show that child's mental and physical development can be severely affected by high levels of lead, and the Environmental Protection Agency now requires that anyone who in considering purchasing a home built before 1978 receive written, detailed information about lead paint and its effects. Federal law now has a right of inspection and termination with respect to the contract of sale with regard to lead-based paint in homes. Taking all of this into consideration, it is a good idea to have your future home tested for lead-based paint.

 Radon Inspection 

Radon is a natural byproduct of the earth's decay of uranium. It is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas, and it could be present in your future home. Typically, Radon is mostly found in the basements of houses, as it seeps into cracks in the foundation and floor drains, sump pump openings, and air holes in hollow block walls. Radon gas breaks down into radioactive particles that can be breathed in and trapped in your lungs. The EPA has said that radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer. Although Radon is a very serious problem that your home could have, it is not a very expensive fix. It mostly requires only more ventilation in the foundation or the basement. This, however, is not a do-it-yourself project, as it requires advanced skill, tools, and knowledge of Radon diagnosis and mitigation. If you need a contractor to assist with a radon problem, you should first consult local, county, or state government agencies for recommendation of qualified radon-reduction contractors. You can also call 1.800.SAS.RADON for more information about radon testing.

 Asbestos Survey/Inspection 

Asbestos, which has now been known to cause lung cancer, is a mineral once widely used in architectural and construction applications such as walls, flooring, ceiling tiles, exterior housing shingles, roofing materials, and insulation. It was sprayed on and around pipes, ducts, beams, and was used in patching compounds and textured paints, and on stove, oven and furnace doors. To see if you have asbestos in your future home, have a trained and experienced qualified professional come and survey your property for asbestos. The professional will know where to look, how to take samples properly, and what actions need to be taken to contain or remove the asbestos. Unfortunately, asbestos removal and encasement can be costly. EPA regional asbestos coordinators can provide information on qualified asbestos contractors and laboratories. Unlike lead paint, there are no federal disclosure regulations; you need to inquire with your buyer broker or attorney whether there are any state statutes in your state requiring disclosure and your rights there under.