Netter Real Estate Inc
Richard Bocchieri, Netter Real Estate IncPhone: (631) 848-0748
Email: [email protected]

What You Should Know About Lead Paint Risks

by Richard Bocchieri 12/05/2021


Image by Lisa Redfern from Pixabay

Perhaps you have invested in a charming, turn-of-the-century home that is full of unique details and authentic touches. Many homeowners are drawn to historic homes because of their architectural designs and cozy atmospheres. However, some of these homes may come with an unexpected risk - the risk of lead-based paint.

Decades ago, a lot of paint that was used inside of homes had lead as a primary ingredient. At the time people were not aware of the health risks associated with lead, and it was eventually removed from paint mixtures. It's important to be aware of what type of paint is in your home, and to understand what steps you may need to take to reduce the risk of lead poisoning.

When Was Lead-Based Paint Used in Homes?

Lead was a popular ingredient in paint because it created a rich color and shiny gloss. As colorful paint was used in homes throughout the country in the early decades of the 20th century, scientists and researchers began to notice the negative impacts of lead on young children. By 1978, lead-based paint was banned from being used in residential homes so most homeowners who purchase a house built after 1978 do not have to be too concerned about lead-based paint. However, there were some builders who continued to use it illegally for years.

How to Tell If Your Home Has Lead-Based Paint

There are two main ways to know if there is lead-based paint in your home. The first is to look around for paint that is chipping or decaying. As lead-based paint deteriorates over time, it will begin to look scaly. This effect is called alligatoring and it is a tell-tale sign that lead-based paint is present in the home. The other way to know with certainty is to have the home tested for lead-based paint. Some people opt to have testing performed during the home inspection.

Lead Poisoning Symptoms

Lead poisoning is most common in children under 6 years old. These are some of the most common symptoms of lead poisoning to be aware of:

  • Unexplained weight loss and loss of appetite.
  • Development delays or learning disabilities.
  • Abdominal pain or frequent vomiting.
  • Hearing loss.
  • Chronic fatigue.
  • The desire to eat items that are not food, such as paint chips.

Lead Abatement: What You Need to Know

Lead abatement is the process of removing lead from your home. If you have discovered that there is lead-based paint or other sources of lead in your home then you may be eligible for financial assistance in order to complete the lead abatement process. You may want to reach out to your local government to learn more about the resources that may be available to you.

For many people, lead is a hidden risk inside their home. They may not realize that there is lead in their paint or in other areas of their home until the young children living inside the home begin to show signs and symptoms of lead poisoning. By taking a proactive approach and having your home inspected for lead, you can address any issues and significantly reduce the risk of lead poisoning.

About the Author
Author

Richard Bocchieri

Welcome to Long Island Living at its best! The South Shore of Suffolk County is a suburban area that runs along the shoreline of the Atlantic Ocean. Homes in this area consist of primarily residential properties. This area tends to be diverse in culture and income as it varies by hamlet, village or town. Residents along the South Shore have access to many beaches, parks and recreational activities. I pride myself on my honesty, integrity, hard work and personal service. My first career was in education, starting as a teacher then finishing as a guidance counselor and achieving my Master’s and two PD's. In 1986, I began my real estate career. In a sense, I am still an educator and offering guidance; this time I am outside of the classroom educating my clients on the selling and purchasing processes; which have become so complicated recently and guiding them safely through the confusing and ever-changing real estate market. It is very satisfying to me to help people with not only the greatest financial asset in their lives but their greatest emotional asset; where they celebrate holidays, raise their families and live their lives. I take the needs of my clients very seriously and as a result, I am proud to say, over 90% of my sales are the result of referrals and recommendations. Primarily, my areas of service are the Townships of Babylon and Islip on Long Island’s beautiful South Shore, near pristine beaches and wonderful boating, yet only 55 minutes from Manhattan; truly the best of both worlds. I'm a graduate of the Real Estate Institute and am certified as a Senior Real Estate Specialist. I also hold a license as a Notary Public. Please feel free to call or visit so I can help you fulfill your real estate dreams. I am a Full Service Licensed Real Estate Associate Broker and provide the following: Free appraisal Rental Mortgages International relocation services Sales Home warranty new homes Free school report Waterfront specialist Notary public Please feel free to call or visit so I can help you fulfill your real estate dreams.

For every sales transaction, a a portion of my commission will be donated to Pronto of Long Island, a nonprofit community outreach center who feed the hungry, clothe the needy and provide hope for our neighbors.  

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