Page 64 - The Latest Homebuying Guide

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● Real Estate agents must give you a pamphlet from the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) called Protect Your
Family from Lead in Your Home.

Older homes may also have asbestos which was used in building
materials before 1980. This is a dangerous and toxic material which
can cause mesothelioma and lung cancer. According to
www.redfin.com asbestos is often found in:
● Vermiculite insulation
● 9”x9” floor tiles
● Acoustic ceiling tiles
● White tape on heating ducts
● Insulation on boiler pipes and boilers
● Old asbestos cement siding
● Popcorn ceiling texture
● Glues used under flooring

Polybutylene is a type of plastic that was used in homes built
between 1978 and 1995. The material was considered a “God sent”
because of its cheapness and “quality.”

Unfortunately the pipes used by plumbing professionals with this
material, did not live up to expectations, as a 1 billion dollar lawsuit
(cox vs Shell Oil) proved in 1995. A large number of homes started
having leaking problems because of ruptures in the pipes, which led
to millions of dollars in repairs. In 1995 US building codes stop
accepting pipes made with polybutylene. Some lenders have even
stopped lending for homes with this type of piping. Save yourself
any future expense, and make sure your home plumbing does not
have polybutylene-made pipes.

A good home inspection report from a qualified professional will tell
you all that needs to be fixed structurally and done to keep you
healthy. It will also highlight issues with the house’s heating,
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