Level 7 - Environmental Issues in Real Estate

Question 1

Asbestos

Answer 1

a naturally occurring mineral fiber that is commonly used in insulation but if airborne or inhaled, can cause severe respiratory health issues.

Question 2

Encapsulation

Answer 2

a method of repairing asbestos in which the material is treated with a sealant that either binds the asbestos fibers together or coats the material so fibers are not released; aka sealing

Question 3

Formaldehyde

Answer 3

a colorless, odorless gas that can be found in building materials, pressed wood products, glues, and other materials such as fabric and carpeting; its presence in sea-formaldehyde foam insulation (UFFI) causes an environmental hazard because of the gases released from the material after it hardens.

Question 4

Friable

Answer 4

crumbles easily or becomes powdery when touched; asbestos is a friable materials, meaning its fibers may be released into the air during product use, demolition work, repair, and remodeling; non friable asbestos will not become airborne during normal contact, asbestos is only dangerous when friable.

Question 5

Lead

Answer 5

a naturally occurring mineral that has been used in the manufacturing of paint and water pipes and is toxic to humans.

Question 6

Material Fact

Answer 6

a fact that, if known, could cause someone to take a different course of action or make a different decision regarding the property to be purchased.

Question 7

Mold

Answer 7

a type of fungus found in damp building materials that can release toxins into the environment.

Question 8

Radon

Answer 8

an odorless, radioactive gas produced by the decay of other radioactive materials in rocks under the surface of the earth; can cause Lund cancer.

Question 9

Target Housing

Answer 9

any housing constructed prior to 1978, except housing for the elderly or persons with disabilities (unless any child less than 6 years old resides or is expected to reside in that housing) or any zero-bedroom dwelling; the Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act requires land disclosures to be made for target housing.

Question 10

Underground Petroleum Storage Tanks (USTs)

Answer 10

tanks located in the ground underneath properties that store chemicals, fuels, toxic wastes, and other potentially harmful substances.

Question 11

Urea-Formaldehyde Foam Insulation (UFFI)

Answer 11

a human made insulation material that becomes dangerous because of the gases released from the material after it hardens.