What to Know About Environmental Testing During a Home Inspection

Many home buyers rely heavily on a home inspection when making decisions about buying a home. Not all home inspectors offer environmental testing as part of a home inspection. However, some of them do, and in today’s blog we are going to talk about which tests may be available to you. 

Why Do Environmental Testing? 

There are many possible pollutants in the air which may be invisible to you. The advantage of environmental testing is to be aware if there are unhealthy levels of certain airborne pollutants before you purchase a home. Forewarned is forearmed. If unhealthy levels of a pollutant are detected, you can decide to negotiate on the price on the house or choose a different house. 

Air Quality 

One test that can be done by home inspectors (like us) is for air quality. An air quality test will let you know the relative levels of pollutants such as allergens or molds. At high levels, these pollutants can pose a health risk. 

Radon Testing 

Another test that is available is a test for radon. Radon is a naturally occurring gas that is released as uranium breaks down in the ground. It is more common in some areas than others, but since it is colorless and odorless, it can only be detected if you test for it. High levels of radon increase your risk for lung cancer. 

If you are interested in environmental testing as part of your home inspection, then discuss this with your home inspector and choose an inspector who offers these tests in his or her portfolio. 

For a home inspection on the Lower Mainland, give us a call at (778) 788-5301. This is our business and area of expertise.

The Inspectors is a group of very experienced home inspectors who bring reliability and integrity to the practice of home inspection. These inspectors follow closely the established standards of the Canadian National Association of Certified Home Inspectors. 

If you have any questions about this article or would like to talk to us about home inspection, we encourage you to call us at (778) 788-5301.