Homebuyers want their new homes to be safe, healthy places they can call home. In today’s fast-paced world, health is one of the most important concerns for anyone who plans to buy or sell a property.

There are some important health factors that you must consider before purchasing your dream home. Ensure that the interior of your home is free from harmful toxins to ensure you and those living with it are healthy.

Here are some health factors you should keep in mind:

1) Asbestos Exposure

Asbestos is a toxic substance found in old homes. It often gets mixed into cement during construction and poses a huge threat to your health if inhaled. Inhaling asbestos fibers can cause breathing problems, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.

So, getting your home inspected for asbestos before moving in is important. You also must ensure that the work site is clear of potential exposure risks, including dust and debris.

Residents in California have many legal options to explore, including filing lawsuits or appealing decisions. Suppose you have been exposed to asbestos and are experiencing symptoms of poisoning. In that case, it is possible for legal action against the contractors who spread this toxic material. You can get help in California to file a lawsuit against those responsible for spreading this poisonous material.

2) The Presence of Lead-based Paint in the House

Lead can cause serious problems for children, such as brain damage, hearing loss, learning difficulties, and even death. You will find lead-based paint in houses built before 1978, when lead was banned by US law. Children are most vulnerable to lead poisoning because they ingest it through their skin and mouths. Also, if you have young kids, you should never let them play with the paint in your home or outside. If you’re planning on renovating your house, ask the contractor about lead paint removal services so that you can stay away from this dangerous toxin altogether.

3) Pesticides and Herbicides Used In the Garden

It is important to check the property’s garden before buying a house. Many homeowners use herbicides and pesticides to maintain the beauty of their gardens without considering the effects these toxins might have on the environment or their health. If the property owners used harsh chemicals in their garden and yard, it’s best to look for another option. Or, you can also choose to get the garden professionally sprayed by a pest control company. Garden spraying is effective as long as it does not include toxic substances, but if you find that the sellers did use those chemicals, you should avoid buying that house immediately.

Check also: 6 Essential Gardening Tools That Every Home Gardener Needs

4) Presence of Molds and Mildew

Molds and mildews are fungi that grow naturally in damp areas around the house. They thrive in warm, humid places like bathrooms and basements. Some molds and mildews are harmless, but others are poisonous and can cause allergies. When mold spores enter your body through your skin or mouth, it can result in respiratory problems, asthma, and other illnesses. Always try to keep your house dry and clean to prevent the growth of molds and mildews.

5) Presence of Other Harmful Chemicals

You must always check the entire house thoroughly for any traces of other harmful chemicals. Check the walls for stains and residue from cleaning products or adhesives. Also, check for signs of carpet cleaners, paints, varnishes, glues, aerosols, solvents, and other hazardous items. These substances can cause much damage if they come into contact with your skin or eyes. In addition to that, some of these chemicals can even affect your health over time. If you witness any suspicious chemical smells, you should reconsider making this house your new home.

6) Air Quality

Air quality inside the house should be taken seriously. You should ensure that your home has proper ventilation, so the air circulates properly throughout the house. Any kind of gases and odors in the house can be hazardous to your health. For instance, the fumes of certain types of paints can cause headaches, nausea, and dizziness. Similarly, the smoke, dust, and particles from heating systems and fireplaces can aggravate respiratory problems. If you have kids, you should take special care to ensure that the air quality inside your home is safe.

Check also: How to Track Down Odors in Your Home

7) Water Quality

Water is essential to our lives; however, we often neglect its importance. That’s why it’s imperative to check the water quality of your new home. Before buying a house, you should always check the pipes, faucets, and taps to ensure that the drinking water doesn’t contain harmful chemicals. Most homes have lead pipes and plumbing materials, which can pollute their water. If the seller claims the water is safe, you should get a professional test before moving in. Also, don’t forget to check the water pressure, flow rate, and taste of the water.

8) Presence of Toxic Items

When you buy a house, you also inherit the previous owner’s belongings. Sometimes, the sellers may leave some toxic items such as paint cans, insecticides, or other chemicals. Your real estate agent should inform you of all the toxins in the house. But, you must also research to know whether or not the house contains any harmful chemicals. Getting rid of such materials before living in the house would be wise. It would be best if you also took proper precautions while living in the house to protect yourself from the dangers of toxins.

9) Presence of Insects

When you buy a house, you possess all the insects previously living there. It includes termites, moths, rodents, spiders, roaches, flies, bed bugs, cockroaches, and creepy crawlies. Though most insects are harmless, they can spread diseases and cause allergies. To prevent this, you should inspect the entire house for all bugs. It would be best if you also got a professional exterminator to assess the situation once you move in.

Final Words

Buying a house can be quite stressful. However, suppose you pay proper attention to every detail. In that case, you should be able to find a perfect house for your family. With the help of these tips, you will be able to identify potential hazards in the house and minimize the risks associated with them. It’s advisable to hire an inspector who can point out the house’s strengths and weaknesses. As long as you follow the inspection report carefully, you won’t have anything to worry about.