Older homes
A house built before about 1990 can carry a short list of exposures that newer houses do not. Here is that list, worst first, with what to do about each — starting with the one most people search for.
Characteristic of pre-1990 houses 13 entries
24Vermiculite Attic Insulation (Asbestos)Attic, structure & air · Loose grey-brown pebble insulation in a pre-1990 atticHigh
28Old Lead PaintAttic, structure & air · Deteriorating paint in homes built before the late 1970sHigh
32Coal-Tar Driveway Sealant (PAHs)Outdoors & garden · Black sealer coating a drive, path or parking lotHigh
38Damp & Mould in the HomeAttic, structure & air · Persistent damp, condensation or visible mould growthHigh
41Untested Basement RadonAttic, structure & air · Lower-floor living space, never tested for radonModerate
42Old Lead PlumbingAttic, structure & air · Lead service lines or old solder in home plumbingModerate
47Methylene Chloride Paint StripperAttic, structure & air · Solvent paint and coating removers used in a closed roomModerate
49Decorated Vintage GlasswareKitchen · Enamelled or painted drinking glasses and dishesModerate
51Pressure-Treated WoodAttic, structure & air · Chemically treated lumber for decks, raised beds and play setsModerate
51Vinyl Mini-Blinds (Lead Dust)Attic, structure & air · Imported PVC window blinds that degrade in sunlightModerate
57Air-Conditioner & HVAC MouldAttic, structure & air · Mould growing on damp cooling coils and filters, then circulatedModerate
58Mothballs (Naphthalene)Living & bedrooms · Naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene mothballs in closetsModerate
60Pressed-Wood FurnitureLiving & bedrooms · Particleboard and MDF furniture off-gassingLow