Each day it seems we are hearing more about lead and lead based paint being found in homes, toys, water and even food products. Maryland had begun the crusade to reduce lead paint in rental properties back in the seventies. Later, the Federal Government and the EPA came on board to join the battle against lead based paint and other forms of lead hazards. The latest toy recall by Mattel has brought a new heighten spotlight on lead based paint and its effect on the health of pregnant women and children under six years of age. For the first time ever, this alone could bring about one of the largest class action lawsuits for endangering the general public. Could this be a sample of things to come? Just about one year ago it was brought to our attention that even your Christmas Tree lights has lead dust on its wires and posed a health hazard.
As a REALTOR you are now required to put an addendum that notifies both buyers and sellers that the property being transferred may have possible lead based paint. Will this be enough to protect you in the event that a child shows an elevated blood level later after the transfer? This is truly a different world that we all now live in.
While thinking of things to come, consider this. Just last week, we were approached by the Bennett Agency to provide risk assessments of properties that are about to go to settlement. It seems that insurance underwriters in the State of West Virginia are starting to require lead testing of properties before they will insure them.
As a result of the ever changing regulations and legal issues around lead based paint we at Nestletosh Property Services, are offering new services to help you avoid future liability and risk. Our company is making changes to bring both, affordable testing and assessments of properties that you now offer for sale. As you know all pre 1978 homes may have lead based paint. However, lead based paint levels are typically higher in those built before 1950.
Nestletosh can provide you with a test summary of the painted surfaces of any home or commercial property with the use of our XRF equipment. This machine is simply a hand held X-Ray gun that will read through the layers of paint to determine the actual amount of lead based paint found and if its a hazard or not. In addition, we will do a complete visual inspection to assess the condition of the many painted surfaces and to advise if it is an active lead hazard or not. Just because it has lead does not always mean it’s a hazard or health risk.
Today it is more and more important that both buyers and sellers understand what part "LEAD PAINT" plays in todays market.With all the legal issues facing us in todays market, a small price for peace of mind may very well be worth it's weight in gold.
To help you and your staff to become more informed on lead based paint we are offering to meet with you and your agents to answer questions. We are available to join you in one of your sales meeting upon request. This is a free service and we will provide your people with the information they need.
From simple dust wipe testing to complete risk assessment and beyond we can meet your every need. Additionally, we have designed many new services to meet the needs of those in the Real Estate Sales Field. These are both cost effective and most of all will provide peace of mind to your buyers and sellers.
Please call us direct to learn more on how our services can put you ahead of the competition.