California Home Buyers Reminded of Potential Indoor Environmental Concerns

Buying a home is one of the biggest purchases for most people.  For home buyers in California, who are faced with some of the most expensive real estate in the country, a high sale price is no guarantee that the property doesn’t have indoor environmental issues that could cause health concerns.

Even brand new homes can have indoor air quality (IAQ) issues.  These are often associated with high levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that are emitted from building materials, furnishings, paints and varnishes.  Some new developments may also be constructed in areas that have issues with contaminated soil and groundwater, which can result in vapor intrusion issues.  In addition, some parts of California are known to have high radon levels.

For those purchasing a used home, buyers also frequently have additional potential concerns.  These may include prior water damage that could have resulted in mold growth or the presence of lead-based paints and asbestos.  Another potential issue involves allergens from pets, dust mites, insects and rodent allergens that may already be present in the home.

“Already this year, we have witnessed some housing markets in California experience bidding wars between buyers,” said Michael Chapman, Laboratory Manager at LA Testing’s Garden Grove facility.  “This has resulted in some home buyers being forced to make multiple bids and sometimes settle on properties that have not always been properly taken care of or that may need renovations.  Home buyers are encouraged to carefully consider potential indoor contaminants that may be present in any property they may purchase.  At LA Testing, we offer analytical services, test kits, sampling supplies and other materials that allow for the identification of indoor environmental problems before a purchase is made.  Testing before a purchase is made provides important information for the buyer to consider and helps to eliminate surprises after the purchase.”

To learn more about testing for indoor environmental contaminants or other health and safety issues, please visit www.LATesting.com, email info@LATesting.com or call (800) 755-1794.

About LA Testing
LA Testing is California’s leading laboratory for indoor air quality testing of asbestos, mold, lead, VOCs, formaldehyde, soot, char, ash and smoke damage, particulates and other chemicals.  In addition, LA Testing offers a full range of air sampling and investigative equipment to professionals and the general public. LA Testing maintains an extensive list of accreditations including: AIHA LAP LLC., AIHA ELLAP, AIHA EMLAP and AIHA IHLAP, NVLAP, State of California, State of Hawaii Department of Health and other states.  LA Testing, along with the EMSL Analytical, Inc. network, has multiple laboratories throughout California including South Pasadena, Garden Grove, San Leandro and San Diego.

Contact Information

Joe Frasca

Senior Vice President of Marketing

LA Testing

(1) (856) 303-2503

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