Humber/Ontario Real Estate Course 4 Exam Practice

What is a critical factor to investigate when listing a property suspected of having old building materials?

1. Presence of lead-based paint.

2. Whether the heating system is oil or gas.

3. If the electrical wiring is up to code.

4. Use of asbestos in construction materials.

5. If the property has low flood risk.

6. Presence of mold or mildew.

The correct answer is: Use of asbestos in construction materials.

The primary reason for investigating the use of asbestos in construction materials is due to the serious health risks associated with asbestos exposure. Asbestos, commonly found in older buildings, can lead to severe respiratory problems and diseases, including mesothelioma and asbestosis, when disturbed. If a property is suspected of having old building materials, determining whether asbestos is present is crucial for both the safety of future occupants and compliance with current regulations regarding hazardous materials. While the presence of lead-based paint is also a significant concern, especially in properties built before 1978, the focus here is specifically on old building materials. Therefore, confirming the presence of asbestos is critical in this context. Investigating other factors like the heating system, electrical wiring, flood risk, and mold or mildew are important for overall property health but are not as directly tied to the risks associated with old building materials.