Defects ... Environments Issues ...

Lead

In the 1920’s, Lead was commonly found in plumbing systems.  In fact, the word "plumbing" is derived from the Latin word "plumbum," which means lead.  Today, lead is recognized as a serious health threat. 

Although rarely found still in use, lead could be present in any home built as recently as the 1940’s.  In addition to being used in pipes, lead was an active ingredient in many household paints.  The lead can be released in the process of sanding, or be ingested by small children and animals chewing on painted surfaces. 

When lead pipes are used as a component of a waste system, they does not constitute a viable health threat, but as a component of potable water deliver system, lead components would certainly be considered a health-hazard. 

Your NAHIPA Inspector is not an environmental hygienist and therefore must disclaim any responsibility for testing or establishing the presence of lead.  Fortunately, specialists using sophisticated instruments can detect lead in painted surfaces, but this type of testing is not cheap.  If you suspect lead to be present, we recommend that you schedule it to be examined by a specialist before the close of escrow. 

For more information on the dangers of lead, please visit the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s website.  They publish a fact sheet on lead in drinking water as well as information on lead in paint, dust, and soil. 

Additional Environmental Issues: Asbestos | Mold | Radon | Water Quality

Related topics: Common Defects | Pest Control Issues

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