If you are thinking about buying an old or newer home, you need to step back and read this article. There are multiple Environmental Hazards that can be present in a new or older home. New or older homes can have Mold, Carbon-Monoxide or Rodent Infestation which can all lead to an Environmental problem and possibly illness. Some of these items can be visible or hidden in the walls or attic. Roden Infestation is a prime example a serious Environmental Problem.
Mold is a normal part of our lives. It is a micro-organism that is carried thru the air by the wind. It needs the following to flourish: mainly water is number one to live. It lives off of organic material such as drywall, wood, cellouse and paper. If you need additional information about Mold, go to the EPA Website. Even though mold spores are everywhere, sometimes they can cause harm to others, especially if you have Asthma and Allergies. The serious side of mold is their ability to release mycotoxins into the air that can have a determential effect on certain groups of people. If there is mold in your home, you can just about bet that there is a water leak or moisture problem somewhere that needs to be fixed. If you or any member of your family is suffering from allergies or asthm, it is important to have the house tested for mold.
Carbon Monoxide poisoning is a known silent killer. It cannot be detected by the senses. Carbon Monoxide is produced as a by-product of an fossil fuel burning appliance such as a wood-burning stove, gas hot water heater or oil burning furnace. This is to name just a few. Everytime I find a gas hot water heater, I always test them for carbon monoxide. Generrally with gas, you can smell the unburned gas from the exhaust in the room if you have a sensitive nose for odors. Every house I have inspected with a gas burning hot water heat in the house, thay have failed due to back drafting problems. Most are not properly installed to draft the right way. One of the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning is frontal lobe headaches. So if you have gas in your home and get headaches, I would suggest you get your home checked out by a licensed Environmental Inspector who knows what they are doing. If you feel you are being poisoned by Carbon Monoxide, seek Medical help immediately.
Rodent Infestation is a serious Environemental threat. Certain species of Rodents are carriers of the lethal Hunta-Virus. Rats can migrate into your home and you will not even know they are there till they start reproducing. You will probably never know they are there till the population is large. They also are carriers of fleas. They can extablish a colony in your attic, walls, closets or even inside walls. I had one client whose infestation was so bad, they had to remove the wall because of the odor from the feeces. This is the reality of rodents. If you suspect you have rodents, call your local rodent control company to trap and remove them. Is anyone in your family sick, call you Doctor and let them know you have a Rodent Infestation in your home. If you are concerned, check the CDC for more information on Rodents..
In conclusion, Mold, Carbon Monoxide and Rodent Infestation are Environmental Hazards that can affect your Asthma or Allergies. These hazards should be checked out. You house should be test and investigated if you feel any of these problems exist in your home. Go to the EPA Website or the CDC Website for additional information.If you feel that you are getting ill from these Environmental Hazards, contact your Doctor immediately.
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