Environmental Exposure Risks to Consider Before Leasing a Property

In today’s real estate market, many people choose to lease or rent instead of purchasing a residential, industrial, or commercial property. Leasing can provide the flexibility to move into a property when the market is uncertain, when favorable financing options are not available, or for one of many other reasons.

Regardless of the motive, it’s important for both landlords and tenants to do their homework with regards to potential indoor and outdoor environmental concerns at a property being considered for lease. This may include talking with a previous owner or current tenant, researching the building’s prior use(s), and hiring a professional to perform an inspection and environmental testing.

“Whether it’s signing a one-year lease, or for multiple years, it’s essential to understand your rights and obligations regarding indoor and outdoor environmental quality issues. Start by carefully reviewing lease documents, by having a basic understanding of federal and state laws, like the Residential Landlord Tenant Act in your jurisdiction, and by getting any inspections you deem important,” said Derrick A. Denis, Industrial Hygienist and Senior Vice President for Clark Seif Clark, Inc. “Inquire in writing about any past issues dealing with common environmental issues such as flooding events, mold, sewage contamination, asbestos, lead, radon, chemicals, vapor intrusion, clandestine drugs, pets, and even pests. If it is important to you, then get that information before the lease is signed. If something arises during your tenancy, be sure to notify the landlord as soon as possible in writing in accordance with your lease documents. The sooner the landlord is aware, the sooner a remedy can be implemented, be that repair, remediation, relocation, or lease termination.”

For those considering leasing or purchasing a residential, commercial, or industrial property, CSC can help to answer these vital questions. They offer site research, inspections, and testing resources for a wide range of microbial, chemical, and material hazards. CSC has even sponsored an educational video about environmental exposure considerations before leasing a property that can be seen at: https://youtu.be/wm6TTcc458M

To learn more about this or other indoor air quality, building science, industrial hygiene, environmental, health, and safety testing services, please visit www.csceng.com, email csc@csceng.com , or call 800-807-1118.

About Clark Seif Clark, Inc. (CSC)
CSC was established in 1989 to help clients in both public and private sectors address indoor air quality, occupational, and environmental, health, and safety (EH&S) issues. CSC is a leading provider of these services with multiple offices along the western seaboard and southwest. The company believes in science-based protocols and has a strong background in engineering, making them the preferred environmental consultants to industrial clients, healthcare facilities, architects, schools, builders, contractors, developers, and real estate professionals.

Contact Information

Paul Cochrane

President

Cochrane & Associates, LLC

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