While sinkholes are atypical, they are most often found in areas where the soil is uncovered to a high water table, and any house that sits on an are where a sinkhole has been previously documented, should be avoided, as another may occur at any time. Abandoned mines and wells pose yet another threat. Mines can fall apart causing your home to sink in, whereas wells can often trap children and animals.
Oil tanks are even more hazardous as they can rust and leak, causing not only environmental hazards with your land, but can also affect your health especially with your drinking water. Pesticides and other chemicals used to control pests and weeds especially in large doses such as farmers use, can pose a serious threat with potential contamination. Another aspect to check into when purchasing your own home is whether it is on a central sewer system or has an onsite system such as a septic tank, seepage pit or cesspool. While a central sewer system doesn’t generally present a problem, onsite systems may be more challenging and costly. Water supplies themselves should be considered, whether your water comes from a wastewater treatment plant or onsite wells. Water Treatment plants regularly test the water for pollutants and chemicals while wells could be polluted and should be tested before you even consider buying the house.
Not only should you inspect the house and grounds you are considering, but talk to local officials, check local records, talk to neighbors, real estate agents, building inspectors, and know what you are buying. Most people look at how many rooms a house has, the size of the house, the school district, and only part of their surroundings. These concerns are all aspects that we don’t generally give much thought t, and sometimes it’s the things you don’t see that actually hurt you. Stop and consider all the aspects of what you are buying. Most people don’t consider these just a few things but considering you might spend the rest of your life, aren’t they at least worth looking into.