House hunting is a challenge that most of us go through on our pilgrim’s progress toward the “American Dream.” If you have recently purchased one of those solid but “dated” houses built before 1978, then you may have inherited more than just beautiful banisters, an outdated heating system and ambiance. Some blasts from the past that may lurk in old homes include potential hazards like asbestos and lead. It is important, from a health and safety standpoint, to know where asbestos and lead are in your house before you renovate

Asbestos-containing materials (ACM) were commonly used as building materials in homes from the turn of the century until the late 70's. No state or federal laws require removal or repair of ACM in buildings other than schools, but that shouldn’t stop you from making sure that all ACM is maintained in your home, or removed if warranted.

ACM in good condition (solid --not loose, fluffy or flaking) is less likely to release asbestos fibers that can cause health problems, primarily lung cancer. Asbestos in good condition can be left alone until it will be impacted by renovation or demolition activities or it can be covered over (flooring or siding) as long as it is not disturbed. Note locations of covered ACM, because Maine's real estate law requires disclosure of ACM at the time of sale.

Asbestos removal activities must be performed by a company licensed by the DEP. The DEP must be notified of the dates of removal and the contractor must follow certain work practices to ensure safe removal and disposal of the asbestos.

Lead paint is another common household material that can pose a potential hazard. Paint used in homes before 1978 often contains harmful levels of lead. Children are particularly susceptible to lead's harmful effects such as learning and behavioral problems, and damage to the kidneys, central nervous and cardiovascular systems. Over half of the cases of child lead poisoning in Maine are due to home renovations involving lead paint. Exposure results mainly from breathing lead dust from high wear areas such as window wells but can also result from eating flaking or peeling paint chips.

Lead abatement is not required except when ordered by the Maine Bureau of Health due to a child living in the home having a high blood lead level. Both state and federal laws require sellers to disclose known lead-based paint in or on the home to the buyer prior to sale. EPA also requires that sellers provide a lead pamphlet to buyers and allow a 10-day waiting period to conduct a lead-based paint inspection at the buyer's expense.

To eliminate lead hazards in the home, homeowners need to do lead abatement. Lead abatement work must be done by a licensed lead abatement contractor, unless it is done by homeowners in their own homes. The DEP can provide information on how to do this work safety as well as lists of lead abatement contractors.

So even though the clothing styles of the 70’s seem to be painfully returning don’t let the potentially toxic building materials from a bygone time endanger your family. Remember-investigate before you renovate and if you have asbestos and/or lead paint in your home, be sure to maintain them in good condition!

Maine DEP