10 Things First Time Home Buyers Need to Know About Lead
If you are buying a home that was built before 1978, chances are, it may contain lead based paint.
The home seller must disclose known information on lead based paint before selling a house.
As a home buyer purchasing a home that was built before 1978, you will have up to 10 days to check for lead.
The federal government banned lead based paint from housing in 1978
Lead can be found inside and outside the house.
A paint inspection can tell you if your home has lead based paint and where it is located.
A risk assessment can tell you if your home currently contains any lead hazards from lead in paint, dust, or soil.
If you think your home might have plumbing with lead or lead solder, call your local health department about testing your water. Boiling your water will not get rid of lead. In the meantime, use only cold water for drinking and cooking. And always run the water for about 15-30 seconds before drinking it.
You cannot see, smell or taste lead.
The health effects of lead are numerous and even low levels lead can severely harm children.
We know that in addition to your health, protecting your family’s health is most important. In children, lead can cause nervous system and kidney damage, as well as learning disabilities, attention deficit disorder and decreased intelligence, just to name a few. In adults, it can cause fertility problems in both men and women, memory problem and increased illness during pregnancy.
As you begin your home buying process, should you choose to purchase a home that was build before before 1978, please take the necessary steps to ensure the safety of your health and that of your family.
For more information, please contact the national lead information center by calling 1-800-424-5323 to speak with a specialist Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 6:00 pm Eastern time (except federal holidays) or visit www.epa.gov/lead.
We hope you enjoyed your visit with us today. As always, thank you so much for stopping by. Until next time… Diana.
