Are you looking for a new home? Whether it’s your first or fifth time around, buying a house is always a big step. It’s not just about finding the perfect layout or location, but also about securing a safe and healthy environment for you and your family. When it comes to house hunting, it’s important to keep in mind factors such as neighborhood, features and potential risks.
Health Hazards Inside Your Home
You want your home to be your safe haven, but what if there are health hazards lurking inside? It is important to inspect the potential house for toxins that could harm you and your family long-term. One of the most common culprits is mold. Mold can cause respiratory problems, especially for those with asthma or allergies. Additionally, it can be difficult and expensive to get rid of once it sets in.
Another thing you should watch out for is lead-based paint. Houses built before 1978 might have lead paint, which is hazardous to your health, particularly for young children whose brains are still developing. Be sure to ask the seller about any previous lead inspections and work done to remove the lead-based paint.
Asbestos is also something to consider. This material was once used in construction because of its fire-retardant properties. However, it has since been discovered to be carcinogenic, and prolonged exposure is known to cause lung disease and cancer. If you are considering buying a home constructed before the 1980s, it’s essential to have the property inspected for asbestos-containing materials, such as insulation and ceiling tiles.
Noise Pollution and Other External Factors
When you picture your dream home, you probably imagine yourself in a serene, noise-free environment. Unfortunately, noise pollution is real, and it could stop you from getting the peaceful sanctuary you’ve always dreamed of.
Noise pollution is not only annoying but can also have negative health effects. A study from the World Health Organization found that exposure to excessive noise levels can cause cardiovascular and cognitive problems, along with sleep disturbances. When house-hunting, consider the location’s proximity to traffic, airports, and train stations. If you are directly on a busy street, it’s important to weigh the risks of constant noise exposure.
Another external factor that you should take into consideration is crime rates. While it’s impossible to guarantee a completely safe neighborhood, conducting a background check is a good starting point. Additionally, you might want to look into the local police department’s recent crime stats to get a sense of the safety of the area.
Conclusion
When it comes to buying a house, the devil is in the details. Don’t overlook elements that could have long-term health implications for you and your loved ones. Knowledge is power, so be diligent about educating yourself before making this significant investment. Remember, this is your home, where you should feel safe and secure, so choose wisely.
| Health Hazards | Noise Pollution & Other External Factors |
|---|---|
| Mold | Traffic Noise |
| Lead-based Paint | Airports Noise |
| Asbestos | Train Stations Noise |
| Crime Rates |
Note: Always get an inspection done before buying a home. Inspectors will have tools to help identify any potential hazards, and if found, inspectors can suggest ways to help remedy the situation. You can save the table above as a cheat sheet for things to avoid when you’re buying a new home.
Download our home inspection checklist here
