GSE Advisor Home

What Do You do When Environmental Hazards Are Suspected in a Distressed and Foreclosed Property?

houseforsale1

Many of these properties have been locked up with no utilities resulting in poor indoor air quality, particularly fungal (mold) and bacterial growth. In some cases these properties have been poorly maintained, damaged or ignored, creating lead-based paint and asbestos hazards. These and other environmental problems (such as underground storage tanks or abandoned septic systems) are a serious concern to banks, mortgage companies, realtors and consumers and may slow or prevent sales.

 

Mold and bacterial growth occurs when the right combination of environmental factors come together.  This is often the case in buildings with no heat or air conditioning and no fresh air exchange that normally occurs in occupied buildings.  Such conditions result in the buildup of relative humidity in general, and moisture levels on susceptible building materials such as wood, gypsum board, ceiling tiles, etc.  Those materials provide an excellent food source for mold and bacteria.  When moisture is added to the environment, explosive microbial growth can occur.  This can not only negatively affect air quality, but can also introduce microorganisms that attack the structural integrity of wood, creating a safety hazard and often requiring extensive demolition and re-construction.

 
Older buildings (built in the 1940’s – 1970’s), often had asbestos containing materials (pipe or other insulation, plaster, ceiling or floor tiles, adhesives, wall boards, roofing, and siding, etc.).  Some of these materials may have been removed over time, but some may remain in less accessible locations.  Such buildings may also contain lead based paint, historically used on exterior surfaces and glossy interior surfaces such as baseboard molding and window sills/frames.
 
Improperly closed underground oil tanks or abandoned septic systems are commonly found on foreclosed properties.  The potential for soil, groundwater and/or potable well contamination must be evaluated and managed quickly and effectively to avoid last minute delays and possible litigation.
 
The health risks related to these contaminants is well known.  That is why careful inspection and possible testing of these hazardous materials prior to renovation, is critical to protecting contractors and long term occupants of the building.
 
Garden State Environmental, Inc. (GSE) is a full service Industrial hygiene, environmental, health and safety consulting firm that services the property preservation and management industries throughout the northeast. 

 

GSE’s proven assessment program provides:

ü  Scientifically valid information on environmental issues of concern.

ü  Detailed yet practical specifications for remediation if necessary.

ü  Technical oversight to ensure fast and cost-effective interventions.

 

GSE’s Environmental assessment service includes:

ü  Initial environmental inspection for all environmental issues of concern.

ü  Environmental testing (as needed) to determine the extent of the problem.

ü  Careful written report to document the problem and recommended solutions.

ü  Project management and local contractor partnerships as needed.

ü  Clearance inspection and final documentation when remediation is complete.

 

Why GSE?

·         Our expertise prevents unnecessary work and can reduce overall project cost.

·         Our program reduces delays, provides objectivity and reduces liabilities.

·         Careful and valid documentation gives confidence to all stakeholders.

·         Final clearance report satisfies disclosure and facilitates closing deals.

 

Please call 201-652-1119 or explore our website to learn more about our company and services.