Home inspections are an integral part of the home buying process. There are certain things that a home inspector is trained to identify in order to ensure your home is in tip-top purchasing shape. However, there are some inspections that are not required by the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) but are equally as important for you to independently run on your own.
Asbestos Inspections
Asbestos is a strong fiber that was often used in building materials before it was banned in the 1970s. It’s extremely hazardous to human health and can cause respiratory issues like asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung cancer. Because of asbestos’ detrimental effects, it’s important to call in an expert, like Alpha Environmental, who is specialized, trained, and certified in screening construction materials for asbestos.
Mold Inspections
Mold is a fungus that can grow naturally both indoors and outdoors when exposed to the right conditions. While it’s not something to stress heavily over, it’s still something that needs to be addressed when you find it indoors. Long-term exposure can have negative health effects related to asthma, inflammation, and sinus issues. Studies indicate that the most common disease closely associated with mold is allergies.
If you’ve discovered mold growing indoors, you are going to want to call in a professional who can remediate the contaminated area. Alpha is a certified mold inspection and mold remediation company.
Lead Paint Inspection
Lead was most commonly used in household paint before it was banned in 1978. It can still be found in woodwork and on walls in older buildings, and if ingested, can be detrimental to human health. Testing for lead paint is another important independent item that you’ll want hire a licensed professional like Alpha Environmental to check for.
Radon Gas Inspection
Radon gas is found naturally in soil and can easily infiltrate a building if it’s present in the nearby foundation. It’s an odorless and tasteless gas that is known to cause lung cancer, and according to the EPA and Surgeon General, around 20,000 lung cancer deaths are cause by radon gas poisoning per year.
While this isn’t a test that you would initially think to run, it’s still important to hire a licensed professional like Alpha Environmental to test the radon levels in your dwelling before making a purchase.
Sewer Inspection/Sewer Scope
A sewer inspection is beneficial for many reasons, whether you think you might have an issue with your sewer line, or perhaps you’re buying a piece of property, an inspection can give you peace of mind. And because most people don’t know that they are responsible for most sewer repairs in the line if it’s between your home and the city’s line, its essential to minimize your risk for repairs and cleaning services.
With an average sewer repair costing around $7,000, it is wise to hire a licensed and certified professional like Alpha Environmental to perform inspections.
Contact Us for Home Inspections in Portland, OR
Although home inspections already cover an array of important checklist items, you should cover your bases and find another professional service that will run the above tests. Alpha Environmental has a staff of professionals who are trained and licensed to perform the additional inspections of your most valuable asset, your home.
