In the past few months, there has been an increase in people moving to the burbs. Without houses limited due to Covid-19, the house you may want to buy would give you plenty of air but require some work. Now that you are spending most of your time at home, improving projects may have sought your attention. But the question here, what should you begin with?

Usually renovation work includes hidden environmental toxins like mold, asbestos and other hazardous substances which negatively affect the indoor quality of air. Hence your primary step when going for renovation should be to go for an environmental inspection. It will help you know about the possible hazards present in your house and eventually safeguard your family’s health from beforehand.

Some of the things to be aware of:

Asbestos fibers may be released in the air if disturbed.

Before going for renovation, find out if there is any material with asbestos. Usually, asbestos is found in walls, flooring and ceiling tiles, fireproofing items etc.

Though it is banned in several forms due to its toxicity, it can still be found in houses especially those constructed before 1980. So, if you are going to disturb your ceilings, walls, tile or flooring, then go for an asbestos survey. It will help you in finding out if there is any of the toxic substance present in your home. Sometimes renovation projects as simple as installation of a fan or removal of a boiler may cause serious implication.

Asbestos fibers inhalation can cause fatal illness such as lung cancer, asbestosis and other serious illnesses.

Mold infects your whole house

Mold spores are seen everywhere but once they start growing they can cause serious health issues. If you are going for renovation, make sure you check for mold growth under sinks, under carpets and behind walls. Mold can grow through HVAC system and spread all through your house.

If there has been a water leakage or damage in the house, then go for mold test. If mold is found then get it professional removed by remediation company.

Look for lead when sanding or disturbing painted surfaces

If you live in a house constructed before 1978, then your paint may have lead. Before commencing your renovation project, either small or big, go for lead paint testing in NYC. When sanded or disrupted, the dust can be highly dangerous. Even a speck can lead to lead poisoning and cause neurological problems, brain issues and other irreversible health conditions.

No matter you want remodel your kitchen and sand the deck or do something as small as hanging a picture on the wall, if the wall paint has lead, then you need efficient EPA Lead Safe work practices.

The inspection should only be done by an EPA accredited inspector. They will submit a detailed report whether lead is present or not.

If you want to get lead paint testing in NYC done for your house or office, then you can contact us at MKM Consulting and we will schedule an appointment.