As people have become more energy conscience, homes have been built ‘tighter’, with more insulation and better sealed from drafts.  While these new construction standards have helped save energy, they have also lead to more environmental problems for the home owner.

Tighter construction means that less air flows through the house.  This leads to more accumulation of pollen, mold spores and water.  Older homes may have issues with asbestos.  Water contaminates can also cause problems.

Did you know that the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) requires home buyers to either have a mold and Radon test or sign a waiver accepting all liability if the house winds up having mold or Radon?  Did you know that most mold problems are found in newly built houses?

Why not have your home inspected for these problems?

Mold Inspection: During a home inspection, a qualified and certified inspector, with special Certified Mold Inspector training will take samples (usually 3) and perform a mold screening.  This will allow the buyer to know exactly what the condition of the house is.  If high levels of mold are found, an inspector can do more precise testing to narrow down the source and turn the data over to an industrial hygienist for remediation.

Water Testing: Most municipal water systems are in great shape and provide clear, clean and pure water to the house.  But older water systems, especially in larger towns with older infrastructure can sometimes have problems, as do some rural houses that have their own wells.  A certified home inspector can do tests that check the water for bacteria (Coliform, E. Coli), lead, nitrates and nitrites, Chlorine, Copper, Hardness, Iron, alkalinity and acidity.

Air Quality: Test the air in your house for pollen, mold, asbestos, dust mites, rodent feces and many other types of particulate.  Testing for natural gas leaks, carbon monoxide and Radon are also available.