The coronavirus pandemic is impacting the home buying process in a way that might have a negative effect on their health. The fear and risk of coronavirus are leading some homebuyers to bypass the inspection process. Unfortunately, this could mean that you miss out on learning about serious health risks and other issues before you purchase the home.
An inspection of the home could lead to the discovery of asbestos. It’s especially important to have homes built in the 1970s and prior to then inspected because asbestos was a common material in homebuilding before it became outlawed. Unfortunately, the age of the asbestos doesn’t matter. Individuals who are exposed to it are at risk of being diagnosed with mesothelioma, a terminal form of lung cancer that spreads quickly and doesn’t have any cure.
Where Might Asbestos be Found in Older Homes?
There are many places in older homes where there might be asbestos. Homes that were built between 1930 and 1950 may contain insulation that’s comprised of asbestos. Textured paints and wall and ceiling joint compounds may also contain asbestos in homes that were built prior to 1977.
Some other areas of the home may also contain asbestos, which is why it is critical to have an inspection done prior to purchase. The inspector may check these areas:
- Gas-fired fireplace artificial embers and ashes
- Siding and roofing shingles
- Stove-top pads
- Vinyl floor tiles, including the backing and adhesives
- Flooring and walls around woodburning stoves
- Metal pipes and ducts may contain asbestos tape or blankets
- Gaskets on coal or oil furnaces
What Happens if a Person is Diagnosed with Mesothelioma?
A person who is diagnosed with mesothelioma will embark upon a treatment plan. This often includes surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. Other treatments are also becoming more readily available that can help these patients; however, there isn’t any cure for mesothelioma.
Individuals who have mesothelioma will often realize that this is a very costly disease. Not only does it involve having to cover medical and personal care costs. It also means that they lose time with their loved ones because life expectancy isn’t long for a person with this terminal form of fast-growing cancer.
Patients who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma may choose to seek asbestos compensation. This can help them to recover some of the financial damage they’ve had to deal with because of the disease. This may also enable them to focus more on creating memories with their loved ones instead of having to constantly worry about money.