Embarking on the journey buying a house in Rome New York is an exhilarating experience. As you search for a property with the ideal number of bedrooms, a picturesque yard, and a prime location in Rome New York, it is crucial to also assess the environmental factors in the vicinity. Factors such as flood zones, high-fire areas, or regions susceptible to extreme weather conditions can impact insurance availability and pose potential risks to your household. While encountering these challenges is uncommon, staying informed and vigilant is key. This blog post delves into the environmental considerations to ponder when investing in a property in Rome NY.
1. Air Pollution
Concerned about air pollution in the NY area? Air quality is a crucial factor to consider, especially for those residing near urban centers. Prioritize your well-being by investigating the local air quality before purchasing a property. Resources like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or regional government bodies can provide insights on air quality levels.
2. Water Quality
When buying a home in Rome New York, it’s crucial to factor in water quality as an environmental concern. Poor water quality can lead to a range of health issues such as gastrointestinal issues, skin irritations, and other illnesses. For properties relying on a private well system, it is highly recommended to conduct water quality testing before finalizing the purchase. This evaluation can be seamlessly integrated into the inspection phase, ensuring peace of mind for prospective buyers.
3. Radon Detection
Radon is a radioactive gas that can be found in homes. It’s odorless, colorless, and tasteless, so it’s difficult to detect without testing. Radon exposure can cause lung cancer, so it’s important to have your home tested before buying. You can hire a professional to test your home or purchase a radon testing kit.
Here in Upstate NY and the greater Rome New York area, we have some of the highest concentrations of radon gas in the country. With modern radon mitigation systems, radon is not something to be super concerned with, as mitigation systems have become a lot more affordable in recent years.
If you are looking for a great radon mitigation specialist, check out Nathan Durant from Durant Home Inspections. Nathan is a great asset to have when buying a home in Rome New York or surrounding areas.
4. Asbestos Used in Building Materials
Asbestos is a material that was commonly used in homes built before the 1980s. It was used in insulation, roofing, and flooring and can be a major red flag when buying a home in Rome New York. Asbestos exposure can cause lung cancer and other respiratory issues. Before buying a house in Rome New York, have it inspected for asbestos. If asbestos is present, you’ll need to hire a professional to remove it before moving in.
5. Lead Paint
Lead is a toxic metal that was commonly used in paint before 1978. Exposure to lead can cause developmental issues, especially in children. If you’re buying an older home, have it tested for lead before you and your family move in. If lead is present, you’ll need to have it removed by a professional.
Here in New York State, we have a mandatory lead based paint disclosure for all homes built prior to 1978. This gives some assurances to the buyer when purchasing a home. However, it is important to note, in my personal experience, is that most homes have lead based paint somewhere in the many layers of paint on the wall. The current homeowners almost never know anything about it.
6. Natural Disasters
Natural disasters can have devastating effects on homes and communities. Before buying a home, research the area to determine if it’s prone to natural disasters such as floods, hurricanes, or wildfires. If the area is prone to natural disasters, consider purchasing flood insurance or other forms of insurance to protect your home. Any additional insurance costs should be factored into your monthly budget for the home.
Buying a home is a significant investment, and it’s important to consider the environmental hazards that may be present in the area before making your purchase. Air pollution, water quality, radon, asbestos, lead, and natural disasters are just a few of the hazards to consider. While these hazards are pretty rare, by doing your research and having your home inspected, you can ensure that you’re making a safe and healthy investment for yourself and your family. If you are in the market for a Rome home, Homes By Cameron can help you find an ideal property free of any hazards or risks. Contact us today at (315) 351-2765!