Chapter 6 Flashcards
Hazardous substances
A variety of laws, state and federal, have been passed for environmental protection. Licensees must
be familiar with the nature of environmental problems and the laws and regulations that apply. Most
environmental regulation and enforcement on the federal level is through the EPA, the Environmental
Protection Agency
Hazardous substances include:
- Lead
- Landfills or waste disposal sites
- Underground storage fuel tanks
- Farming herbicides and pesticides
- Asbestos
- Radon
- Mold
- Greenfields
- Greyfields
- Brownfields
- Water quality
Lead
is found in paint and pipes and soil. Use of the lead-based paint disclosure for all properties
built before 1978 is required by law. The buyer has the right to have the property inspected
for lead within 10 days of the effective date of the contract, and may terminate the contract
due to the results of the lead inspection within 14 days of the effective date by providing written
notice to the seller. The disclosure allows buyers to waive their right to a lead inspection.
Older homes may have lead plumbing. Lead is hazardous when eaten or when inhaled in dust
particles. There is no duty to remediate lead. A seller must keep a record/ copy of the disclosure
for at least three years from the sale date.
Landfills or waste disposal sites
when improperly constructed can lead to groundwater contamination.
Know locations, and disclose. Recommend water testing.
Underground storage fuel tanks
that are old, rusty, or leaking, can cause groundwater
contamination. Sometimes found on both commercial and residential properties, these are
commonly called USTs. Recommend water testing.
Farming herbicides and pesticides
are another source of groundwater contamination. Recommend
water testing.
Asbestos
is an insulating material. Problems arise in its removal. ACMs (asbestos containing
materials) can be friable, or easily crumbled. The resulting dust is extremely hazardous. A
seller’s only duty or obligation is to disclose the presence of asbestos. An asbestos abatement
plan outlines the control of asbestos in a property. Methods of abatement include removal,
encapsulation, and/or enclosure or sealing the area.
Radon
is a naturally occurring colorless and odorless gas produced by the decay of radioactive
materials in rocks under the ground. Radon enters homes through the foundations. Radon
mitigation plans can reduce radon levels through the installation of pipes and fans. Radon is
much more likely to exist in colder climates.
Mold
mold needs water, oxygen, nutrients and the right temperature to grow. Newer homes
with tighter construction can add to mold growth, hence the addition of ventilating fans in
wet areas. A source of nutrients for mold is paper - it is basically pre-digested wood. Therefore,
paper faced gypsum board (sheetrock) should never be used in shower or tub areas. Cement
board or mortar board in these areas will discourage mold growth.
Greenfields
land that has never previously been developed
Greyfields
land able to be redeveloped (empty Walmart)
Brownfields
land known to be hazardous - most likely a hazardous industrial site
Water Quality
can be graded to explain both condition and use. White or clear water is tap
water and potable (able to be used for drinking and food preparation.)
Grey water
is gently
used water from your bathroom sinks, showers, tubs, and washing machines. Greywater may
contain traces of dirt, food, grease, hair, and certain household cleaning products.
Black water
denotes wastewater from toilets, which likely contains pathogens.