The National Association of Realtors (NAR) and the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) commissioned Market Enhancement Group, Inc. to conduct the first ever National Home Inspection Study. Two studies were conducted in February 2001 targeting both homebuyers and realtors. The studies focused on the attitudes and perceptions about the role of home inspections in the real estate process.

NAR/ASHI 2001 Home Inspection Survey Results

http://www.ashi.com/media/press/release004.htm

NAR/ASHI 2001 Home Inspection Study – Executive Summary

http://www.ashi.com/media/press/release001.htm

Congressman Requests GAO Study Regarding Mandatory Home Inspections

Congressman Douglas Bereuter (R-NE) has requested the General Accounting Office (GAO) to perform a study to quantify the costs and benefits of mandatory home inspections in the federal home loan programs. For more information click below

http://www.ashi.com/media/press/release010.htm


Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act of 1992 (Title X) – How does it Effect Home Sales?

Title X of the Housing and Community Development Act redefines the federal response to lead poisoning by coordinating efforts between the three agencies responsible including HUD, EPA and OSHA. The HUD portion is what will mostly effect home sales; however, EPA regulations may become involved if a risk assessment is performed. Section 1018 outlines the requirements for pre-1978 residential properties that are to be sold or rented. The requirements are as follows:

1. The buyer or renter must receive a copy of the EPA pamphlet “Protect Your Family From Lead in Your Home” or a federally approved substitute.

2. Sellers and Landlords must disclose to buyers and renter any known lead hazards on the property. They must provide the buyers and renters with copies of all reports and information about the lead. (Including results of any do-it-yourself testing)

3. Sales and leasing contracts must contain a Lead Warning Statement

4. Buyers must be given at least 10 days (longer if agreeable to both parties) to conduct a risk assessment or inspection for lead hazards. If lead hazards are identified the sales contract can be renegotiated or the buyer may walk away from the deal.

5. Failure to comply is a Federal offense and could result in criminal as well as civil liability of $10,000 per violation

This rule went into effect on December 6, 1996. Additional information about this regulation can be obtained from the National Lead Information Center by calling 1-800-424-5323.

The Toxic Substance Control Act (TSCA) falls under the EPA’s authority. Title X amended TSCA by adding a fourth title :Lead Exposure Reduction. This title addresses regulation for ensuring accredited training programs properly train individuals engaged in lead-based paint activities and contractors are certified. The EPA has developed a federal certification and training program for individuals involved in lead-based paint activities. These activities include identification of lead based paint , removal or abatement of lead paint, and any demolition. States have the option to administer their own training, certification and accreditation program. The EPA needs to approve the program based on it providing the minimum safety requirements established in the federal program and adequate state enforcement. Any states that choose not to administer their own program, must adopt the federal program as established by the EPA.

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