If you suspect that your house may be toxic, the first step is to assess whether your home is in danger of containing any hazardous or unhealthy materials that could be causing harm to your health. To do this, look for potential sources of contamination, such as mold, asbestos, lead paint, poor ventilation, and hazardous chemicals.
Mold is a common cause of indoor air pollution. It can be hard to spot, but if you notice any musty odors, discolored walls, or other signs of water damage, you should investigate further. Asbestos is another common cause of indoor air contamination. If you know that the home was built before 1980, you should have it tested for asbestos. If it contains asbestos, it will need to be removed or encapsulated in order to protect you from its health effects.
Lead-based paint is another potential source of indoor air pollution. Lead paint can be difficult to detect, so if your home was built before 1978, it is wise to have it tested and, if necessary, removed. Poor ventilation can also be a major source of indoor air pollution. Homes without proper ventilation can become stuffy and prone to trapping unhealthy air particles. If you notice that your home is always feeling stuffy or has a strange smell, you should investigate further.
Finally, hazardous chemicals in the home can also cause indoor air pollution. Many household cleaners, air fresheners, and other products contain dangerous chemicals that can be damaging to your health. To reduce the risk of exposure, look for natural, non-toxic cleaning products and avoid using air fresheners.
By assessing your home for these potential sources of indoor air pollution, you can determine if your house is toxic and take steps to reduce the risk of health problems.