Final answer:
The most common environmental issue found in structures built before 1981 is asbestos, used for its insulation properties but poses serious health risks, especially lung cancer. Additionally, such buildings may contain lead-based paint, risking lead poisoning.
Step-by-step explanation:
The environmental issue most commonly found in structures built before 1981 is asbestos. Asbestos was used for insulation and fireproofing due to its heat-resistant properties. Unfortunately, it also poses significant health risks, particularly lung cancer, when its fibers become airborne and are inhaled. For property owners and managers, addressing the presence of asbestos is critical to ensuring the safety of building occupants.
Furthermore, older buildings may also contain lead-based paint, another serious environmental hazard. Buildings constructed before the ban of lead in household paint in 1978 may still have original layers containing lead, risking lead poisoning, particularly in children. Both asbestos and lead pose significant remediation challenges and can be costly to address properly. However, ignoring these issues can lead to severe health consequences and legal liabilities.