Vol. 3, No.
5 |
From the desk of ...
Arthur S. Lazerow |
ALBAN
Title X Lead Inspections |
This coming fall and winter, Realtors will be
bombarded with the lead paint disclosure law. One aspect of Title X is that purchasers of
homes built before 1978 have a ten day contingency period to have a Lead Risk Assessment
performed by an accredited inspection company.
A risk assessment includes a visual assessment of the condition of painted surfaces, x-ray
fluorescence testing to determine the location of leaded paint, and dust wipes to discover
the extent and location of lead contaminated dust. A typical lead risk assessment costs
$150, plus laboratory fees.
Tim Watkins, head of our lead division, or I interpret the inspection results and prepare
the Lead Risk Assessment Report. This report is a non-alarming, informational discussion
of the lead paint condition of the home and how to safely deal with lead paint within the
property.
Realtors whose clients opt for a risk assessment should call Alban. Our prices are fair
and if we perform both a home inspection and lead risk assessment, we offer discounts on
both services. if you have any questions about lead-based paint, Title X or the inspection
process, call Alban.
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573 Lancaster Place
Frederick, Maryland 21702
Metro 1-800-822-7200
301-662-6565 |
Full Fee Refund
IF SALE DOESN'T CLOSE |
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Here are eight things that can be done to maintain a roofing
system so repairs can be made before damage is done, or plans are made for replacement.
Recommend these tips to your clients for a once-a-year checkup.
1) Check the roof surface for loose, damaged, or missing shingles.
2) Inspect flashings at vents, chimneys, and roof valleys for tight seals or defects.
Repair, reseal, or protect all flashings periodically.
3) Check trims, soffits, facias, and barge boards for paint failure or deterioration.
4) Gutters, gutter-strainers, and downspouts should be cleaned of leaves and debris
periodically. When gutters and downspouts become blocked, overflowing water finds its way
into the facias, soffits, roof, and roof sheathing. This problem is the major cause of
paint failure and decay in soffits and facias. Most gutters require regular
maintenance. All joints should be checked and resealed if they show the smallest sign of
leakage. Galvanized guttering generally requires regular painting or spot painting.
Underground downspouts should be checked and kept clean as clogging could cause water in
the basement.
5) Check masonry chimneys for condition of mortar joints, caps, and cement wash. Repaint
or repair any problem areas to eliminate possible damage to the roof or interior of the
house.
6) Keep the flues and vents free of bird nests and other obstructions.
7) Roof-mounted equipment (air conditioners, ventilating fans, antennas, etc.) should be
checked for roof damage and condition. TV antenna wires should be tested for tightness.
8) Flat roofs should be checked especially at metal roof edges, flashings at parapet
walls, and strainers for leaks. Due to normal wear, expansion and contraction, flat roofs
should be coated every 5 years.
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Water-Saving Ideas.
Here are some ways to reduce a water bill.
Shortening showers by 2 minutes saves up to 700 gallons
Catch running water (while waiting for it to get hot) in a watering can to use later saves
100-300gallons.
Fixing leaking faucets and plumbing joints saves 600 gallons per leak.
Running full loads in the washing machines and dishwashers saves up to 1000 gallons.
Rinsing vegetables in a filled sink or pan saves 150-250 gallons.
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