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.
MTBE (Methyl Tertia-Butyl Ether) is an oxygenate that
has been added to gasoline since 1978 to increase octane
and lower exhaust emissions. It is a flammable,
colorless liquid that dissolves easily in water.
Because of its solubility, MTBE can pass quickly through
soil contaminating groundwater. CERCLA lists MTBE as a
hazardous substance, and the EPA classified it as a
potential human carcinogen.
Introduction