Environmental Exposure Considerations before Leasing a Property
In today’s real estate market, many people choose to lease or rent instead of purchasing a residential, industrial or commercial property. For some, leasing provides the flexibility to move into a property when the market is uncertain, when favorable financing options are not available, or for one of many other reasons.
Regardless of the reason, it’s important for both landlords and tenants to do their homework with regards to potential indoor and outdoor environmental concerns at a property being considered for lease. This may include talking with the previous owner or current landlord, researching the building’s prior use, and hiring a professional to perform an inspection and possible environmental testing.
Landlords and tenants are bound to deal truthfully when negotiating a lease. So ask about issues dealing with past flooding events, mold, sewage contamination, asbestos, lead, radon, chemicals, vapor intrusion and even pests.
Depending on the situation, one might consider hiring a professional to perform something similar to a Phase 1 Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) and possibly even a Phase 2 ESA. A Phase 1 ESA involves extensive research of the history of a location, building and neighborhood. The Phase 2 ESA involves testing the structure and grounds for any evidence of contamination. This step in the process can help to either confirm or refute the findings from the initial Phase 1 ESA. During a Phase 2 ESA, the consultant may test the soil, air and groundwater for potential contamination. This is also the time that indoor testing for mold, bacteria, asbestos, lead, chemicals, radon and vapor intrusion issues should be addressed.
These are just a few of the many things to know about potential indoor and outdoor environmental issues when leasing a property. To learn more about this or other building science, industrial hygiene, environmental, health or safety issues, please visit the websites shown below.
Clark Seif Clark https://www.csceng.com
EMSL Analytical, Inc. https://www.emsl.com
LA Testing https://www.latesting.com
Zimmetry Environmental https://www.zimmetry.com
CTSI https://www.ctsiweb.com
Healthy Indoors Magazine https://www.healthyindoors.com