According to an NYC estate planning attorney, it is never advisable to rush to pick out a property for habitation. Whether you’re desperate to rent or own a house, it is wise to pay critical attention to specific elements that determine whether the property is ideal for human living. Usually, when people live on a property, it is easier to detect early signs of repair. However, with about 1.5 million homes vacant, it increases the chances of rapid property deterioration. If you decide to buy a house like that, it could pose serious problems. Below is a list of things to look out for.
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A building with no repairs done for years
Buildings deteriorate over time, which explains why repair works are carried out every few years to strengthen the structure. For example, cracks can widen to become holes in certain parts of the house and turn into fertile ground for insects and small rodents. At that point, you may need pest control services to come in to salvage the situation. However, before these services are contacted, it helps to consider other health hazards that come with living in a house that has seen no repair in years.
First and foremost, a building without repairs done in a while could result in a weakened structure. If it is a story building, the flooring on the upper levels could become weak enough to collapse. Additionally, the walls could cave in after years of unattended cracks due to massive internal deterioration. Sometimes, it may come across like you got a good deal, but in the long run, it could be costly not only to your wallet but your health and life.
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No provision for wastewater disposal
Unattended wastewater on any property can be a recipe for disaster. Apart from the increased risk of bacteria growth, it can weaken the foundation of any property. Living in a house like that also means your health can be at risk, especially for developing respiratory and other infectious diseases.
Thankfully, the country’s local authority with oversight responsibilities on an existing property may make it impossible for a structure like that to slip through the cracks. However, if it does, you are responsible for reporting instead of thinking you got a good deal for a property like that.
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Poor ventilation and natural lighting
These two elements always seem to go hand in hand in building. Indeed, it is for a good reason. A property with poor ventilation means it has poor fresh air exchange with the outdoors. In other words, a house with poor ventilation continually harbors stale and contaminated air, which is unhealthy for human habitation. However, it works just fine if you have the financial resources to renovate a house to improve indoor air quality. If not, you are better off settling for a healthier option.
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Lead
Decades ago, lead was a prominent building material in the States. A 2018 healthy home survey revealed that many houses built in the United States before 1978 contained significant lead. It was either in paints or used as an internal structure within walls. Indeed, it is impossible to detect these with your naked eyes. Therefore, it makes sense to get lead-removal experts to conduct checks before moving in with your family.
Never be in a rush to move your family into a new house until you are confident that it meets standards for human habitation. It is better to take the time to ensure these checks are done, lest you risk contracting avoidable ailments.
