Mold: Mold has always been with us, and it is a rare property that does not have some mold. However, over the past few years a certain kind of mold has been identified as a possible contributor to illnesses. Allergic individuals may experience symptoms related to mold. Mold growth is found underneath materials where water has damaged surfaces, or behind walls. A pamphlet, Mold in my Home: What Do I Do?, prepared by the Arizona Department of Health Services, Office of Environmental Health, states: “If you can see mold, or if there is an earthy or musty odor, you can assume you have a mold problem.” www.hs.state.az.us/phs/oeh/invsurv/air_qual/mold_contents.htm
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention websites also contain valuable information: www.epa.gov/iaq/molds/moldresources.html and www.cdc.gov/mold/default.htm.
Radon gas and carbon monoxide: Radon gas and carbon monoxide poisoning are two of the more common and potentially serious indoor air quality (“IAQ”) concerns. Both of these concerns can be addressed by the home inspector, usually for an additional fee. For information on radon levels in the state go to www.arra.state.az.us/radon.htm.
Clandestine drug labs: For information on remediation of clandestine drug laboratories, and to view a list of seized homes, please visit the Board of Technical Registration website www.azbtr.gov/listings/drug_lab_site_clean_up.asp.
Other: For information on other indoor environmental concerns, the EPA has a host of resource materials and pamphlets available at www.epa.gov/iaq/iaqinfo.html and www.epa.gov/iaq/pubs/index.html.