In real estate today, several environmental
issues are the concerns of potential investors,
developers, lenders, and homeowners. A lack of
understanding can be intimidating and
frightening, and may result in substantial risk
to many different parties. Below are
explanations of predominating environmental
issues, and links to organizations that can
provide you with the information you need to
make healthy, confident decisions in your real
estate transactions.
Asbestos is a fibrous mineral found in rocks and soil
throughout the world. It has been used in architectural
and construction applications because it is a strong,
durable, fire retardant, and an efficient insulator.
There are two types of asbestos, friable and
non-friable. Friable materials are materials that can be
crumbled, pulverized, or reduced to powder by hand
pressure. These particles and fibers, once airborne,
must be inhaled to pose a danger.
Studies of industry workers exposed to airborne asbestos
indicated many health risks including lung, stomach,
esophagus, and colon cancer, which may not appear for
many years following exposure.
Introduction