7 Hidden Health Hazards in Your Pennsylvania Home
I hadn’t realized, but household items can be potentially hazardous to your health. Surprised, right? It turns out that your home in Pennsylvania is a hot zone for hazardous substances. And you may not even be aware. If you’re considering selling your home quickly, health hazards should be disclosed to the real estate agent.
1. Outdated Asbestos
Asbestos is the bane of construction workers. According to Jon, “if your home in Pennsylvania was built before the 1980’s, most likely it contains asbestos.” In powder form, asbestos is harmful and can cause serious health problems (cancer, respiratory diseases, etc.).
Old homes may have asbestos in:
- Popcorn ceilings
- Insulation
- Floor tiles
2. Mold
Mold is a tough one. Jon’s old bathroom didn’t have natural ventilation. As a result, the damp conditions became a breeding zone for mold. Mold prevention is critical and begins with regulating the humidity in the space.
One of my friends asked me, “Is it possible to sell a house with mold?” For the best value, sell a house free from mold.
3. Excessive Clutter
Jon claims, “A cluttered home is more than just an eyesore. It can also be a serious home hazard.” Cluttered spaces can obstruct exits in the event of a fire. I recall my colleague Debbie mentioned a story where cluttering around a surge protector resulted in a short circuit for the entire electrical wiring in her Pennsylvania neighborhood.
The first step towards decluttering your home is to start small. Real estate agents are proficient in selling hoarder houses.
4. Cleaning Solutions
The maintenance staff at our office explained that “when using a cleaning solution with bleach, ensure ventilation and use of gloves.” Every day, cleaning is best done with a natural solution of vinegar and baking soda. For stronger solutions, avoid mixing bleach and vinegar.
5. Bacteria in the Kitchen
And to think that any part of your home would be entirely clean. The kitchen is bacteria central. Keeping a kitchen clean is mandatory for your safety against health hazards.
6. Pests
I recently learned that “While most homeowners are aware of the damage caused by pests, they may not realize the health hazards associated with it.” If you think your home may be infested with pests, call an exterminator.
7. Dirt and Other Impurities
Even the air in your Pennsylvania home can harbor diseases. Improving the air quality is a reliable way to manage the health hazards. Additionally, regular HVAC maintenance can capture dust and other particles.
Summary
Your home in Pennsylvania should be a healthy space for you and your family. A little research into maintaining your home can go a long way in keeping the potential hazards away from your home.
