|
||||||||||||
|
||||||||||||
A decade ago, environmental issues were rarely a part of the typical real estate transaction. Today, however, it's common for inspections relating to environmental concerns to be part of most sales contracts.
In many states, seller disclosure regulations will reveal knowledge of certain toxic substances on a property. Typically, though, it's up to the buyer to pursue environmental inspections and tie any findings to the purchase offer.
Beyond home inspectors
Home inspectors who primarily focus on structural integrity and
working systems might not be qualified to conduct specialized
inspections for radon, asbestos and lead paint - substances that
in recent years have emerged as the most common environmental
concerns for home buyers. Testing for these substances typically
requires a specialists who will charge a fee beyond the basic
cost of a general home inspection.
As with any other inspection issue, the estimated expense of remedying a toxic substance situation may have already been factored into the home's listing price. Other times, the outcome of an inspection might become a negotiating point.
|
