If you're in the market for a new home, there are many factors to consider before making a final selection. Besides location, price and amenities, potential buyers must also consider the safety of the home.

Although many buyers will search for outward signs of trouble, such as a degrading foundation or pests, a less thought of issue is also important: the presence of lead paint.

Lead is a naturally occurring element, one that can be found in air, water and soil, as well as inside the home. Lead is toxic and prolonged exposure can cause serious issues for children and adults. Some of these issues include cardiovascular disease and hypertension, decreased kidney function and reproductive problems.

Lead paint is often found in older homes, those built before 1978 in particular. Maryland law requires all multi-family and single-family dwellings built before 1978 to test for lead paint. In addition, federal law requires the disclosure of lead-based paint in all property that is sold or leased.

Paint that contains lead can cause serious health risks for those who live in the home. When chipping or deteriorating paint occurs, lead paint dust is the most common result, which can float to other areas of the home.

As part of Alban Inspections lead paint testing, our employees offer:

• Lead risk assessment.
• Lead free certification.
• Lead dust pre-occupancy testing.
• Visual compliance inspections.
• Free consultation services.
• Clearing house for information.

Lead paint is a serious issue, one that must be taken care of right away in order to ensure the health of your family and the stability of your home.

Schedule a lead paint inspection today to learn more.