Oregon 30-Hour Real Estate Law Practice Test

Which environmental hazard is typically associated with buildings constructed before 1981?

1. Lead paint

2. Asbestos

3. Mold

4. Radon

The correct answer is: Asbestos

Buildings constructed before 1981 are often associated with asbestos due to its widespread use as a building material prior to the 1980s. Asbestos was commonly incorporated into various building materials for its fire-resistant properties, particularly in insulation, ceiling tiles, floor tiles, and roofing materials. Understanding the risks associated with asbestos exposure is important in real estate, as it can lead to serious health issues, including lung disease and cancer. This awareness is crucial for real estate professionals, ensuring that they take appropriate measures when dealing with properties built during that time frame. Lead paint, while also a concern in older buildings, was not banned until 1978, meaning that while it may still be present in pre-1981 buildings, the primary environmental hazard specifically linked to that era of construction is asbestos. Mold, on the other hand, can occur in any building where there is moisture, regardless of the construction date. Radon is a naturally occurring gas that can be found in any home, depending on the geological conditions, but it is not specifically associated with older construction.