What health hazard should a buyer of a house built in 1955 be aware of?

A buyer of a house built in 1955 should be particularly aware of lead-based paint as a significant health hazard. Homes constructed before 1978, when the U.S. banned the use of lead-based paint in residential properties, often contain this hazardous material. Lead can pose serious neurological and developmental risks, especially to children and pregnant women. Lead exposure can occur through the ingestion of dust or paint chips that degrade over time, leading to poisoning and several health-related issues.

In addition to the risks associated with lead-based paint, it’s important to consider that older homes may also have other health hazards. However, in the context of a house built specifically in 1955, lead-based paint is the most pertinent concern due to the timeline of regulations surrounding its use. While options like asbestos could also present risks—particularly depending on building materials used—the most common and recognized hazard in residential properties of that era is lead-based paint, making it the primary focus for buyers considering properties built during that period.