Asbestos
Before any remodel, restoration or demolition project, building materials (such as ceilings and wall surfaces, flooring, insulations and adhesives) should be tested for asbestos prior to removal. Removing building materials without asbestos testing can not only result in an asbestos spill, but can put the health of your family and your community at risk. The State of Colorado regulates asbestos in residential homes or commercial facilities if the asbestos content is greater than 1%. Learn more about Colorado asbestos regulation:
Mold
Yes, mold does happen in dry Colorado! Although the mold industry is not regulated under Federal or Colorado-State agencies, industry standards have been developed on how to properly and safely test for and mitigate mold or microbial growth contamination. At BuildSafe, our industry-trained building inspectors always follow ANSI/IICRC S500 and ANSI/IICRC S520 standards for mold inspections, protocol development, and clearance procedures.
Act Fast! After moisture contacts building materials, mold can grow in as little as 48 hours. If you notice any suspect discoloration, water staining or musty odors, quick response is key to cost-effective clean-up. You may not be aware, but most basic homeowner’s insurance policies exclude coverage of damages caused by mold. However, all homeowner insurance policies DO cover water damage. Don’t let your water damage mishaps turn into an expensive headache! Act fast!
Symptoms in humans vary. One family member may experience symptoms, while other family members may not. Common mold related symptoms include: nausea, headaches, skin irritation, and respiratory issues. Long-term exposure to mold can lead to life-long illness. Learn more about Colorado mold standards:
Lead
Lead was used in paint and varnish products up until the 1960’s and 1970’s. Lead-based paint (LBP) should be considered hazardous when in deteriorated conditions. Housing and child-occupied facilities built before 1978 are subject to Colorado Regulation No. 19 and require LBP testing prior to disturbing suspect building materials. In 2008, the EPA enacted the LBP Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) Rule, requiring contractors to be certified and trained in the use of lead-safe work practices. Still today, contractors tasked to remove suspect LBP materials will often seek out third-party verification to reduce liability and ensure proper protocol.
BuildSafe inspectors are positioned to offer both comprehensive HUD-approved LBP inspections and lead-based paint screenings for restoration or remodel projects of any scale.
