If you’re a landlord or a homeowner, a long weekend often means extra time for DIY projects you’ve been meaning to start. Before you do – there are a few things we recommend you check. We’ve compiled a handy checklist of some things to look out for so you can ensure your property is fit for renovation.
1.) Asbestos
What is it?
Until the late 20th century, asbestos was widely used in building projects – particularly for insulation. The dust created by damaging asbestos can be extremely harmful, and has been known to cause cancer, mesothelioma and asbestosis.
Where is it?
While asbestos regulations started to improve in the mid-80’s, a fully-fledged ban was not introduced in the UK until 2009. If your house was built before this time, asbestos may have been used in its initial build – from insulation in the loft and interior walls to the floors and ceilings.
How can we help?
If you suspect there is asbestos in your property, it is important to test for its presence before damaging it – by drilling into it, ripping it out, or even hammering a nail into it. We provide self-test kits so you can safely and easily test for asbestos. Alternatively, our team of expert scientists are also available for call-outs.
2.) Lead and arsenic in paint
What is it?
Lead and arsenic are substances that were commonly found in paint before their dangers were realised. Lead was popular because it helped accelerate the paint drying process – however, exposure to lead dust was found to cause abdominal pain, headaches and memory problems, among other issues. Arsenic was commonly found in a shade known as ‘Scheele’s Green’, but it was later found to cause arsenic poisoning, which can lead to vomiting and abdominal pain.
Where is it?
Any paint containing lead or arsenic that has chipped off or been scratched can release harmful dust. This can be both inside and outside your house, on skirting boards, in soil and other places.
How can we help?
There is no sure-fire way to know if paint contains lead or arsenic without testing for it. Our self-test kits enable you to test for the substances. If you suspect the paint in your home could be harmful, testing it is always the safest option. We can get results back to you in as little as three days.
3.) Harmful bacteria in water and water systems
What is it?
Water can be home to a number of harmful bacteria – this includes Legionella, which causes a form of pneumonia called Legionnaires disease.
Where is it?
Legionella lives in water – and thrives in temperatures between 20 and 60 degrees celsius. This makes places like dishwashers, hot tubs, pools and domestic water systems the perfect environment for Legionella to lurk.
How can we help?
Regularly testing the water systems in your property can help you ensure you or your tenants are not being exposed to Legionella. Our self-test kits can find the bacteria, as well as help you identify a leak source, and find the cause of corrosion.
4.) Indoor air quality
What is it?
During home renovations, you are exposed to a number of harmful substances that stay in the air you breathe every day.
Where is it?
Products like paints and varnishes, cleaning agents, and glues can contaminate the air and become a health hazard. Over-exposure to these can lead to headaches, dizziness and nausea.
How can we help?
Our indoor air quality tests help ensure the exposure levels are safe for anyone working or living in the environment. The self-test kit includes detailed and easy-to follow instructions.
Envirochem recommends testing your home before making any DIY decision or starting a renovation project. If for any reason you would prefer for a member of the team to visit the site and carry out tests, you can get in touch with us via the contact form below.