Question

Your family purchases a house that was built in 1922. kisa bit of a "fixer-upper", but it has a lot of potential. Unfortunately, you are on a tight budget so you decide to only fix the essentials. Your family decides to invest most of your money into making the house structurally sound, replacing old appliances, and fixing old electrical wiring Finally, after months of preparation, the house is ready for in- spection. Despite all the work your family put into the house, it still will not pass inspection. The inspector tells your family that the air quality in the house is not up to code. What are the most likely the reasons the house cannot pass inspection?​

Answer 1

Answer: There could be several reasons why the house may not pass inspection due to air quality issues. Here are some common possibilities:

• Poor ventilation: In an older house, the ventilation system might not be sufficient to provide proper air circulation. Inadequate ventilation can lead to stale and stagnant air, which can negatively impact indoor air quality.

• Mold and mildew: Older houses might have hidden water leaks or moisture issues that lead to the growth of mold and mildew. These fungi can release spores into the air, which can cause respiratory problems and worsen indoor air quality.

• Asbestos: Houses built before the 1980s might contain asbestos-containing materials, such as insulation, tiles, or pipes. If these materials become damaged or deteriorated, they can release harmful asbestos fibers into the air, which can pose serious health risks when inhaled.

• Lead paint: Houses constructed before the late 1970s might have lead-based paint on their walls. Peeling or chipping lead paint can release lead particles into the air, which is especially dangerous, especially for young children.

• Radon gas: Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can seep into homes from the ground. Long-term exposure to elevated levels of radon can increase the risk of lung cancer.

• Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): Older homes might have been painted, varnished, or treated with products that contain VOCs. These chemicals can off-gas into the air and lead to indoor air pollution.

• Poor air filtration: The HVAC system in an older house might have inadequate or old air filters, making it difficult to effectively remove particulates and allergens from the air.

• Inadequate insulation: Insufficient insulation in the house can lead to temperature and humidity imbalances, promoting mold growth and affecting indoor air quality.

• Pest infestations: Older houses may be more prone to pest infestations, such as cockroaches or rodents, which can contribute to poor air quality by spreading allergens and pathogens.

It's important to address these air quality issues promptly to create a safe and healthy living environment. Professional assessments and appropriate measures should be taken to improve indoor air quality, which may include improving ventilation, addressing moisture and water leaks, removing asbestos or lead-based materials, and implementing proper air filtration and purification systems.