Watch out for hidden defects in your acquisition

A hidden defect is a defect or an imperfection, discovered after a purchase. Undetectable defect by the buyer who could not update it at a glance. When you buy or rent a house, apartment or any kind of housing, whether it is for the purpose of living or developing a professional activity, a precaution is necessary:

Find out if there is a hidden defect (or several)

Among the hidden defects that can be present are the moulds (microscopic fungi present in the nature and transported in the houses by draughts, humans or domestic animals), which can often be found in the Humid places of premises, for example around the bathtub or windows.  The decontamination of mould must then be carried out by specialists. Also, if the place has previously been used as a cannabis plantation, mildew will undoubtedly be present, indeed this activity causes a high humidity and the aeration is often not optimal. Unfortunately, in a case like this, demolition is necessary in order to be able to treat the problem to the strain effectively. There too, a decontamination company will have to deal with the problem. But another hidden defect not misunderstood must also be taken very seriously: asbestos.

Attention to Asbestos

One of the most frequently detected latent defects is: asbestos. In fact, before 1985, many houses, buildings or even professional premises were constructed using plaster mixed with asbestos. This practice was widespread from the end of the 19th century to the arrival of gypsum boards (also known as drywall or gyproc). Before taking possession of a new place, it is therefore essential to carry out an asbestos test. This is also essential when work needs to be done, whether for renovations, expansions of space, or even demolitions. Before any of these changes are made, a certified decontamination professional will have to be called in to do an analysis. The dust emitted from these works may contain asbestos fibres, it may be present in materials or products likely to contain such as ceiling tiles or gypsum. For example, employers are obliged to have their workers inspected in the event that they were built before 15 February 1990. These inspection obligations apply to all employers regardless of whether they are tenants or owners of the business-related building.   A number of microscopy methods can be used to detect whether there is asbestos or not, and in case there is an opportunity to intervene.

What are the dangers?

Too long exposure to asbestos can lead to major health problems. These include diseases associated with respiratory and generally fatal disorders, such as lung cancer, asbestosis or mesothelioma. If asbestos is detected, it will be necessary to hire a qualified asbestos specialist. It is important to avoid moving asbestos-containing materials yourself as this increases health risks.