Unit 21 Flashcards
What do pollution and hazardous substances affect?
attractiveness, safety, desirability, and market value of cities, neighborhoods, and backyards
Types of environmental Hazards
mold, lead-based paint, contaminated well water, contaminated groundwater from a nearby landfill, radon gas, CFCs from an air conditioner, carbon monoxide, dripping PCBs, electromagnetic radiation, Urea-Formaldehyde insulation, Asbestos Ceiling Tiles
Asbestos
a fire-resistant mineral that was once extensively used as insulation and to strengthen other materials
Problem with asbestos
can create airborne contaminants that may result in respiratory diseases
Encapsulation
the sealing off of disintegrating asbestos; way to control asbestos
Requirement for asbestos removal process
state-licensed technicians and specially sealed environments
Friable
as it ages, fibers break down into tiny filaments that hang in the air for a long time
Who can perform asbestos inspections?
certified asbestos inspectors
Problem with lead based paint
can result in damage to the brain, nervous system, kidneys, and blood; children under 6 are particularly vulnerable
Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act (LBPHRA)
requires disclosure of the presence of any known lead-based paint hazards to potential buyers or renters
Radon
a naturally occuring, colorless, odorless, tasteless, radioactive gas produced by the decay of other radioactive substances
Formaldehyde
a colorless chamical with a strong, pronounced odor used widely in manufacturing of building materials and many household products because of its preservative characteristis
Problem with Formaldehyde
probably human carcinogen; can trigger respiratory problems, eye and skin irritations, Sick Building Syndrome contributor
Largest source of formaldehyde in any building
off-gassing from pressed-wood products using adhesives that contain urea-formaldehyde resins
Urea-Formaldehyde Foam Insulation (UFFI)
once popular, was banned, now legal but not used much; can have high formaldehyde emissions if incorrectly mixed
Carbon Monoxide
colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas that occurs as a by-product of burning fuels
Problem with Carbon Monoxide
quickly absorbed by body, inhibiting the blood’s ability to transport oxygen, resulting in dizziness, nausea, and potentially death
Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs)
consist of more than 200 chemical compounds that are not found naturally in nature; flame resistant often used in electrical equipment
Problem with PCBs
carinogenic, cause lower fertility and shortened life spans
Underground storage Tanks UST)
commonly found on sites where petroleum products are used or where gas stations and auto repair shops are or were located
Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA)
federal law that gives the EPA authority to develop a program for proper management of underground storage tanks, as well as hazardous and nonhazardous solid waste
Brownfields
defunct, derelict, or abandoned commerical or industrial sites, many of which may contain toxic waste
Problem with brownfields
eyesores and potentially dangerous and hazardous properties
Does federal law require you test for lead paint?
no
What does the EPA require from sellers, landloards and renovators of residential dwellings built before 1978?
- landloards must disclose known information on lead-based paint and hazards before lease starts
- sellers must disclose information on lead-based paint and hazards before execution of contract for sale
- buyers must have 10 days to conduct a risk assessment or inspection for lead-based paint
- real estate professionals must give buyers and lessees the “Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home” pamphlet
- Anyone who is paid to perform work that disturbs paint in housing, schools and child care facilities built before 1978 must be trained and certified in EPA lead-based paint work pactices
- Real estate professionals must ensure that all parties comply with the law
- Sellers, lessors, and renovators must disclose any prior test results or any knowledge of lead-based paint hazards