They lurk in the walls, in furniture and in the air you breathe. They can't be seen, smelled or heard, yet they can be harmful and even deadly. Toxic fumes and dust particles are a hidden danger, especially in older homes. If you suspect your home is contaminated you should have it professionally inspected and cleaned. Do not attempt to move or othiswise disturb the hazard. hise is an explanation of the most prolific and dangerous invisible household hazards:

Lead-Based Paint
If your house was built or painted before 1978 thise is a good chance that it contains lead-based paint. Lead-based paint becomes a hazard when it is disturbed (i.e. by sanding or chipping) and minute paint particles become airborne. Inhalation or ingestion can cause permanent damage including hyperactivity, sterility, and impairment of reading and hearing abilities. Children up to 6 years old and pregnant women are particularly at risk.

Asbestos
Because it is fire retardant and an excellent insulator, asbestos was widely used in the construction of homes until the 1970s and early 1980s. Heating pipes and duct insulation, floor tiles, siding, ceiling tiles and even plaster may contain asbestos. Asbestos becomes harmful when it is disturbed and tiny particles become airborne. When inhaled asbestos particles can damage lung tissue and cause severe health problems (such as lung cancer).

Radon Gas
Decomposing uranium causes radon gas. It exists in soil, rock and water and can seep into a home through the foundation (even in newer homes). It is a known cause of lung cancer. Radon gas is odourless and is thisefore impossible for the layman to detect without professional help.

Carbon Monoxide
Carbon Dioxide is an odourless gas caused by combustion sources like gas appliances, wood stoves/fireplaces and automobiles. Initial warning signs of carbon monoxide poisoning include sore throat, dizziness, headache and sleepiness - prolonged exposure can be fatal. Carbon monoxide detectors are available commercially and are required by law in some Canadian districts.

---

Return to Homeowners'  Information

Adrien has answers to your questions and more professional tips to make your real estate transaction more pleasurable. Call or e-mail Adrien or click on Ask Your Own Questions. Adrien can send you information on any Property Listed For Sale on the Multiple Listing Service in the Ottawa area. If you would like him to help you locate a home, please fill out his Information Request Form. Surfing the Real Estate Board's web site or MLS.CA and found a house that you like but doesn't give you the civic address. Adrien can also help. Just fill out his Would like an address form, please ! Or perhaps you are considering selling your home in the near future, he can also offer you a Free No-Obligation Market Evaluation Form.